WASHINGTON โ Efforts to rescue four missing U.S. Army soldiers, who were involved in a recent mission in Lithuania, are being challenged by difficult terrain conditions. Lithuanian and American forces are currently working to extract these soldiers after their armored vehicle was found submerged in a waterlogged area. The vehicle lies 15 feet underwater, making access extremely difficult, and teams have yet to successfully reach or recover it.
In a concerted move to tackle the challenging situation, U.S. Army Europe and Africa announced the deployment of cranes, a sizable pump, and more than 30 tons of gravel to assist in the recovery operation. The complicated nature of the area, with its deep mud and watery conditions, requires a substantial engineering effort to support the extraction of the M88 Hercules vehicle. They caution that the process could be lengthy as workers struggle against groundwater seepage that complicates drainage efforts.
The identities of the four missing soldiers have not been disclosed, but it is known that they disappeared during a Tuesday operation meant to recover another military vehicle. Although the Hercules vehicle was located on Wednesday, continuous efforts by recovery teams have not yet resulted in its extraction. The soldiers serve with the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, and additional support is being mobilized, including a U.S. Navy dive team. Further assistance is being provided by the Polish Armed Forces, which has offered engineers, extra equipment, and 150 military personnel to join the operation.
Maj. Gen. Curtis Taylor, who commands the 1st Armored Division, communicated a strong resolve in the recovery efforts, noting the unitโs discipline and dedication in their attempts to bring the soldiers home. He acknowledged the operationโs complexity, highlighting the camaraderie among the troops as they embark on the challenging task.
The incident occurred at the General Silvestras ลฝukauskas training ground near Pabrad?, a town situated close to Belarusโ border, within about 6 miles (10 kilometers). The search and recovery mission continues as authorities endeavor to navigate the relentless terrain and bring closure to this concerning situation.