Two Soldiers Injured in Bear Attack During Training at Alaska Army Base
Two soldiers from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, were injured during a brown bear attack while participating in a land navigation training exercise. The incident occurred on Friday, and both soldiers were equipped with and used bear spray during the encounter. The 11th Airborne Division, to which the soldiers belong, confirmed the injuries and stated that the soldiers are receiving medical care. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game suggested that the bear's attack was likely defensive, as it had recently emerged from hibernation. Despite efforts, officials were unable to locate the bear in the remote area. The base, which houses over 40,000 people, has experienced bear attacks before, including a fatal incident in May 2022.