Bear Attack Injures U.S. Soldiers During Training Exercise in Alaska

On April 16, 2026, two soldiers from the U.S. Army’s 11th Airborne Division were injured in a brown bear attack during a land navigation training exercise at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) in Anchorage, Alaska. The soldiers were participating in the exercise in the Arctic Valley training area when they encountered the bear, which is believed to have been acting defensively after recently emerging from hibernation. Both soldiers utilized bear spray during the encounter, which officials noted may have prevented more severe injuries.

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Following the attack, the soldiers received immediate medical attention and were transported to a medical facility in Anchorage. Specific details regarding their injuries have not been disclosed pending notification of their next of kin. Lieutenant Colonel Jo Nederhoed, a spokesperson for the 11th Airborne Division, emphasized that the safety and well-being of personnel is the Army's highest priority. The incident is currently under investigation by both the Army and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, which is working to confirm the species and gender of the bear involved.

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The attack highlights the inherent risks associated with military training in Alaska, where encounters with wildlife, particularly bears, are not uncommon. JBER spans over 100 square miles and is home to significant populations of both black and brown bears. While bear attacks are rare, they can be fatal; a study indicated that there were 10 fatalities from bear attacks in Alaska between 2000 and 2017. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game has urged individuals in the area to carry deterrents and be prepared for potential wildlife encounters, especially as spring increases bear activity.

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In a statement, Cyndi Wardlow, Regional Supervisor for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, expressed hope for the soldiers' recovery and acknowledged the role of bear spray in mitigating the attack's severity. "In this case, having bear spray with them in the field may have saved their lives," she stated. The Army has closed the area where the attack occurred to recreational activities while investigations continue.

Two Soldiers Injured During Bear Encounter at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson

While the incident has drawn attention to wildlife safety protocols, there are concerns regarding the adequacy of training provided to soldiers for handling wildlife encounters. Critics argue that more comprehensive training could further reduce the risk of such incidents in the future.

Bear Attack Leaves Two Soldiers Injured During Alaska Training Exercise

As the investigation unfolds, wildlife officials are collecting evidence to better understand the circumstances surrounding the attack and to enhance public safety measures. The area remains closed to recreational use, and the public is encouraged to report any bear sightings or aggressive wildlife behavior.

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• "The safety and well-being of our personnel is our highest priority." — Lt. Col. Jo Nederhoed, U.S. Army 11th Airborne Division

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• "In this case, having bear spray with them in the field may have saved their lives." — Cyndi Wardlow, Regional Supervisor, Alaska Department of Fish and Game

Two Soldiers Injured During Bear Encounter at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson

This incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of training in wilderness environments and the importance of preparedness in mitigating risks associated with wildlife encounters.

Bear Attack Leaves Two Soldiers Injured During Alaska Training Exercise