Two US Army soldiers sustained injuries after a defensive encounter with a brown bear during a military training exercise in Alaska, according to official statements released on Friday.
Incident Details and Response
The attack occurred on Thursday in the Arctic valley, a mountainous region within the joint base Elmendorf-Richardson's extensive training area near Anchorage. The soldiers were actively engaged in a "land navigation training event" when the bear, which had recently emerged from its den, initiated what authorities describe as a "defensive attack."
Both personnel promptly deployed pepper spray in an effort to deter the animal. They are currently receiving medical care, with their conditions withheld pending notification of next of kin.
Investigation and Safety Measures
The Alaska Department of Fish and Game is leading an investigation into the incident, focusing on identifying the species and gender of the bear through collected samples. In response, base officials have temporarily closed the affected area to recreational activities to ensure public safety.
Lt Col Jo Nederhoed, a spokesperson for the US Army's 11th Airborne Division, emphasized in an email to the Anchorage Daily News that "the safety and wellbeing of our personnel is our highest priority." Few additional details are available as the case remains under active review.
Wildlife Context and Base Environment
Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson spans approximately 100 square miles (259 square kilometers) within the Anchorage municipality, a habitat supporting an estimated 350 black bears and 75 brown bears. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of balancing military operations with wildlife conservation in such ecologically diverse regions.
