The 3rd Infantry Division has identified the two soldiers who lost their lives during a training exercise in the Fort Stewart training area on Jan. 30.
According to a statement from Lieutenant Colonel Angel Tomko of the 3rd Infantry Division Public Affairs, the deceased are Staff Sgt. Shelbe Butner and Spc. Jacob Mullen, both motor transport operators. They were assigned to the 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division.
“Our hearts are broken at this devastating loss,” said Major General Christopher Norrie, the 3rd Infantry Division commanding general. “Shelbe and Jacob were honored and highly respected soldiers of the Marne Division, and our thoughts and prayers are with their families and fellow soldiers during this incredibly difficult time.”
Butner and Mullen were participating in a combat training exercise near Camp Oliver when the accident occurred.
While operating their Joint Light Tactical Vehicle under blackout conditions, the vehicle veered off the road and into standing water.
Soldiers from their unit responded immediately, rendering first aid and performing CPR until emergency services arrived.
The Evans County Claxton Fire Department, through a mutual aid agreement with Fort Stewart’s Directorate of Emergency Services, arrived on the scene within 20 minutes of receiving the emergency call. Fort Stewart Fire Emergency Services arrived shortly thereafter, alongside Fort Stewart Military Police, Fort Stewart Conservation Law Enforcement, and Fort Stewart Emergency Medical Services. Additional support was provided by first responders from Bryan County and Evans County.
Butner, 28, a Missouri native, had served in the Army for nine years. Her awards and decorations included the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Air Assault Badge, and the Drill Sergeant Badge.
Mullen, 25, a Maryland native, had served in the Army for seven years and was previously deployed to Poland. His awards and decorations included the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon.
The U.S. Army’s Combat Readiness Center, the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division, and the XVIII Airborne Corps are currently investigating the incident.
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