Multiple American Soldiers Dead After Submersion of Armored Vehicle

The discovery of the M88 Hercules armored vehicle in a Lithuanian swamp marks a significant development in the search for multiple missing American soldiers.

Key Insights

Three American soldiers were found deceased, and a fourth remains missing after the M88 Hercules sank in a swamp in Lithuania.
The soldiers belonged to the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, and were in Lithuania for Operation Atlantic Resolve.
The recovery operation for the armored vehicle was a joint effort between US and Lithuanian forces, highlighting international cooperation.
The investigation continues as the cause of the accident remains unknown.
Maj. Gen. Christopher Norrie expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the soldiers’ families.

Incident Overview

Three American soldiers have been declared deceased after their M88 Hercules armored vehicle sank in a swamp near Pabradė, Lithuania last week. The soldiers were part of the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, stationed in Lithuania for Operation Atlantic Resolve. Reports indicate that the armored vehicle was in the swamp at a depth of 4.5 meters (15 feet). Recovery efforts began immediately, with forces from both the U.S. and Lithuania participating in the search.

The soldiers were initially involved in a mission to repair and tow an immobilized tactical vehicle when their own vehicle became compromised. A fourth soldier is still missing. The recovery operation, complicated by water, thick mud, and unstable ground, included specialized equipment and assistance from the Polish Armed Forces, which provided additional resources.

3 missing US soldiers found dead in Lithuania, search continues for 4th soldier https://t.co/ULEh4xTTr1

— ABC13 Houston (@abc13houston) March 31, 2025

Efforts and Challenges

The efforts to recover the M88A2 Hercules were completed on March 31, several days after it was declared submerged. The process required significant resources due to the challenging location within a peat bog. The operation involved US Navy divers who worked through zero visibility conditions to attach steel cables for retrieval. The Lithuanian armed forces offered extensive support, including helicopters, aircraft, and heavy equipment. Ground-penetrating radar is now being used to systematically search the area for the missing soldier.

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda and Defense Minister Dovilė Šakalienė both conveyed their condolences, emphasizing the solidarity between the nations during this difficult time. The investigation into the cause of the incident is ongoing, with Lithuanian Military Police and US investigators leading the inquiry.

Statements and Ongoing Investigations

Maj. Gen. Christopher Norrie expressed grief and solidarity with the families, stating, “The soldiers we have lost in this tragedy were not just soldiers – they were a part of our family. Our hearts are heavy with a sorrow that echoes across the whole Marne Division, both forward and at home.”

Meanwhile, Defense Minister Dovilė Šakalienė remarked, “The armored vehicle was pulled ashore at 4:40 a.m., the towing operation is complete, Lithuanian Military Police and US investigators continue their work.”

As the investigation continues, closure for the families and the division remains a priority. The camaraderie and shared efforts in the recovery and investigation underline the strong international cooperation between the US and allied nations. The tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks military personnel face, even during training exercises.