FORT STEWART, Ga. () — Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda has posthumously bestowed the Order of the Cross of Vytis upon four soldiers who tragically lost their lives in Lithuania earlier this year.
The honored soldiers are Staff Sergeant Jose Duenez, Jr., 25, from Joliet, Illinois; Staff Sergeant Edvin F. Franco, 25, from Glendale, California; Staff Sergeant Troy S. Knutson-Collins, 28, from Battle Creek, Michigan; and Pfc. Dante D. Taitano, 21, from Dededo, Guam.
These men, all part of the 3rd Infantry Division and the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, were discovered deceased near Pabradė, Lithuania, after being declared missing. The soldiers were engaged in a mission to repair and tow a disabled tactical vehicle within a training area, officials stated.
On Monday, March 31, Duenez, Franco and Taitano were found and confirmed dead by officials. A day later on April 1, Knutson-Collins was found deceased.
Their M88A2 Hercules armored recovery vehicle was recovered from a peat bog.
“The ceremony is a deeply solemn gesture recognizing their exceptional devotion to duty and ultimate sacrifice during NATO-allied exercises,” a 3rd Infantry Division spokesperson said. “These Soldiers gave their lives strengthening the security and defense of our NATO alliance. Lithuania’s highest honors reflect a shared commitment to freedom, unity, and peace.”
The ceremony is meant to signify the soldiers’ heroism and serve as a symbol of the partnership between the U.S. and Lithuania.
“To the families of these brave Soldiers: we honor your loss, we remember your loved ones, and we stand with you,” the 3rd Infantry Division spokesperson said. “Their service will never be forgotten.”
They were deployed to Lithuania in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve but were permanently stationed at Fort Stewart.
