ATLANTA (AP) - Three 3rd Infantry Division soldiers were killed and three others were injured after a training accident at Fort Stewart Sunday morning, officials said.
The six 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team soldiers were riding in a Bradley Fighting Vehicle at the time of the accident, said Fort Stewart spokesman Lt. Col. Patrick Husted. Three were pronounced dead on-site at the army training airfield about an hour southwest of Savannah, and the surviving three were taken to Winn Army Community Hospital, Husted said. Their conditions are not known.
"Today is a heartbreaking day for the 3rd Infantry Division, and the entire Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield community, as we are all devastated after a training accident this morning on the Fort Stewart Training Area," commanding general of the 3rd Infantry Division Maj. Gen. Tony Aguto said. "We are extremely saddened by the loss of three Dogface Soldiers, and injuries to three more. Our hearts and prayers go out to all the families affected by this tragedy." The names of the soldiers have not been released pending next-of-kin notification. The incident is under investigation.
In a statement, U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter, whose congressional district includes the base, called the incident "tragic and devastating."
"These brave soldiers gave everything for their nation, including their lives," he said. "Amy and I send our most sincere condolences to the families and friends of these heroes and the entire 3ID community. The sacrifices of our military families are greater than most of us will ever know."