The fate of four U.S. Army soldiers missing in Lithuania remains unconfirmed, despite reports of their deaths circulating Wednesday. While NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte reportedly told the Associated Press that the soldiers died during a trip to Warsaw, NATO Acting Spokesperson Allison Hart clarified that Rutte was referencing unconfirmed news reports.
The soldiers, all from the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division based at Fort Stewart, Georgia, were participating in scheduled tactical training near Pabradė, Lithuania, when the incident occurred. A U.S. official, speaking to the Associated Press, stated only that the soldiers were involved in a training accident.
Adding to the confusion, a Fort Stewart spokesperson refuted Rutte’s reported confirmation, emphasizing that the soldiers’ deaths have not been officially confirmed. The spokesperson cited a statement from U.S. Army Europe and Africa (USAREUR-AF), which acknowledged that Rutte had seen reports but maintained that the soldiers’ location could not be confirmed at that time. The Fort Stewart spokesperson told Savannah news station WSAV they’re trying to be mindful of the soldiers’ families.
The search for the soldiers involved a joint effort by the U.S. Army, Lithuanian Armed Forces, Lithuanian law enforcement, and other authorities. Lt. Gen. Charles Costanza, V Corps commanding general, expressed gratitude for the Lithuanian Armed Forces and first responders’ swift assistance in the search. “It’s this kind of teamwork and support that exemplifies the importance of our partnership and our humanity regardless of what flags we wear on our shoulders,” Costanza said.
U.S. Army Europe and Africa confirmed that the armored recovery vehicle the soldiers were operating was discovered submerged in a body of water in a training area.
While the incident remains under investigation, expressions of sympathy and support poured in.
Marty, the girls, and I join the entire nation and their families in mourning the loss of 4 service members who made the ultimate sacrifice while stationed abroad.
We pray for their loved ones and fellow soldiers, and ask all Georgians to join us in asking for God’s protection… https://t.co/iIL36F8VBt
— Governor Brian P. Kemp (@GovKemp) March 26, 2025
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger offered their condolences to the families and fellow soldiers. Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA) echoed these sentiments, calling for prayers for the missing soldiers and their families.
