S. RES. 237: Honoring the Bravery of Four US Soldiers
In recognition of the ultimate sacrifice made by four brave US soldiers, Congress has passed a resolution to honor their memory and service.
Resolution Honoring the Service and Memory of Four US Soldiers
The resolution, passed by the Senate on May 20, 2025, honors the service and memory of Army Staff Sgt. Jose Dueñez Jr., Army Staff Sgt. Edvin F. Franco, Army Staff Sgt. Troy S. Knutson-Collins, and Army Pfc. Dante D. Taitano.
Background
- The four soldiers were part of a rotational deployment of 3,500 US Armed Forces as part of the United States-led NATO Operation Atlantic Resolve to enhance deterrence along the NATO alliance’s eastern flank.
- They were stationed at Pabrade training ground, Lithuania, since February 2025.
Their bodies were found on March 31 and April 1, 2025, after a tragic accident while conducting a mission to repair and tow an immobilized vehicle. A complex recovery effort involving hundreds of allied personnel and equipment ensued.
Acknowledging the Sacrifice
Thousands of Lithuanians, including Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda, joined a farewell ceremony on April 3, 2025, to mourn the deaths of these four US soldiers.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our US partners,” said President Nauseda. “Their bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
Honoring Their Legacy
- The resolution honors the memory and service of these four US soldiers for their dedicated service to the United States and its NATO allies.
- It expresses gratitude for the hundreds of brave US, Lithuanian, Polish, and Estonian personnel involved in a complex recovery effort.
Reaffirming Alliance Commitment
The resolution reaffirms the importance of continued Western leadership in enhancing deterrence in the Baltic region.
In light of this tragic loss, Congress has come together to honor the bravery and sacrifice of these four US soldiers. We remember their service and pay our respects to their families.