
Recovery Efforts Continue for Missing Fort Stewart Soldiers in Lithuania
The search for two missing U.S. Army soldiers from Fort Stewart, Georgia, has transitioned into a recovery operation in Lithuania. Sgt. Edvin Franco and another soldier were reported missing after a training exercise in the Nemunas River on March 25, 2025. The incident has drawn significant attention, prompting a joint operation between U.S. and Lithuanian forces.
As of the latest update on March 30, 2025, dive teams and engineers from both nations are actively involved in the recovery efforts. The U.S. Army Europe and Africa Command has been coordinating the operation, with assistance from local Lithuanian authorities. The transition from search to recovery indicates a shift in the approach, focusing now on retrieving the soldiers rather than hoping for their safe return.
The families of the soldiers have been informed and are receiving support from the Army. The incident has raised questions about the safety protocols during international training exercises, with many calling for a thorough review to prevent future tragedies.
Detailed US Army searches for four missing soldiers in Lithuania
Related issues news
Why is the US Army in Lithuania?
The US has maintained a presence in Eastern Europe and the Baltic region since 2014, in an operation called “Atlantic Resolve,” following Russia's invasion of Crimea. Lithuania, a member of both NATO and the European Union, hosts hundreds of American troops, who are stationed on a rotational basis.
How many US soldiers are in Lithuania?
Lithuania, a NATO and EU member, hosts more than 1,000 American troops stationed on a rotational basis.