Recovery Efforts Intensify for Missing U.S. Soldiers in Lithuania Swamp

PABRADĖ, Lithuania — U.S. military personnel, supported by Polish and Lithuanian teams, continue their search for four U.S. Army soldiers who went missing during a training exercise last week. The soldiers disappeared early on March 25 while operating a M88 Hercules armored recovery vehicle, which was later found submerged in a peat bog near Pabradė.

According to officials, the vehicle, weighing approximately 70 tons, was on a scheduled maintenance mission to recover another Army vehicle when it sank. It is now estimated to be about 13 feet underwater and encased in more than six feet of mud.

As the recovery mission continues, U.S. Army engineers have successfully attached two hoist lines to the vehicle, which will help stabilize it and prevent further sinking. “Engineers expect to start winching early this morning,” the Army announced on X, adding that the challenging terrain complicates the process.

Brig. Gen. John Lloyd, commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers North Atlantic Division, highlighted the complexities involved in reaching the M88. “It is highly complex trying to get to the vehicle itself given the terrain and the mud that covers it,” he stated.

In an effort to bolster the recovery, a Rapidly Available Interface for Trans-loading (RAIL) system is expected to arrive to assist with stabilization efforts. Traditionally used for railway logistics, the system is hoped to improve conditions for the recovery teams.

“From helicopters with thermal vision to forces on the ground, we are continuing very intensely,” said Lithuanian Defense Minister Dovilė Šakalienė, who expressed concern over the missing soldiers. She stressed that while it remains uncertain if they escaped the vehicle prior to it sinking, there is “no evidence” of their deaths as of now.

Despite the ongoing recovery operations, the task remains perilous as crews navigate hazardous conditions and unstable terrain. “The area around the site is incredibly wet and marshy and doesn’t support the weight of the equipment needed for the recovery,” the Army stated in a release.

The search has involved over 200 personnel, including American and Lithuanian forces, as well as Polish military engineers who have provided additional equipment. A specialized U.S. Navy diving team also joined the efforts, but progress has been slow due to the mud and water conditions.

“This tragic situation weighs heavily on all of us,” said Maj. Gen. Curtis Taylor, commanding general of the 1st Armored Division. “We want everyone to know we will not stop until our soldiers are found.”

Lithuania, which shares a border with Belarus, has taken the recovery mission to heart. “Working with American soldiers has always been close to our hearts,” Šakalienė added, affirming the deep connections they share. A joint prayer was held at the capital cathedral for the safe return of the soldiers.