U.S. soldier from Joliet dies during training exercise in Lithuania

JOLIET, Ill. – One of the four U.S. soldiers who died in a training exercise in Lithuania last week was from Joliet.

The family of Sgt. Jose Duenez Jr., 25, was hoping for a miracle as the search carried on last week. Duenez is now being remembered for his service and the young family he leaves behind.

“He loved what he did. He loved serving his country. He loved helping people,” Duenez’s sister Eva Jasso said. “I’m so proud to be his sister. He was my baby brother, but I looked up to him so much.”

Duenez was the youngest of six children, but the 25-year-old stood tall with his family.

He grew up in Joliet and enlisted in the Army as soon as he graduated high school. Duenez and his wife welcomed a son named after him one year ago.

In January, Duenez deployed to Lithuania with the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division. Last week, his family received word that he and three other soldiers had disappeared during a tactical training exercise.

“We are a family that has a strong faith in God. We were praying for a miracle all week. We were praying that my brother and the other three soldiers would be found alive and well,” Jasso said.

After a massive search conducted by hundreds of soldiers, Navy divers and U.S. Allies, a visit to the family’s home on Monday confirmed Duenez and two others died. A fourth soldier was found dead on Tuesday.

Their armored vehicle was found submerged under 15 feet of water in a muddy bog.

“It would seem that the bank of a lake collapsed. You know, the weight is so big. It was at night. It was very cold weather, ice, a lot of ice,” President Trump said.

Duenez was the sole provider for his young family. His siblings are now raising money to support his wife and son.

“I know that’s what my brother would have wanted. He would have wanted his family taken care of,” Jasso said.

Portland and Estonia were also involved in this recovery.

The Duenez family said closer to home, they have been overwhelmed by the support and have been sharing their thanks for all who’ve thought of them during this difficult time.