Fundraiser takes flight: Family seeks help to honor fallen soldier
The family and friends of the late Dante Taitano are seeking assistance to raise funds for a flight from the U.S. to Lithuania to attend his funeral services. The American soldier was killed during military maneuvers at a training ground in Lithuania. Unfortunately, the 21-year-old had five siblings, and the army provides transportation to Europe for only three family members.
Four American soldiers died during military maneuvers at the Pabradė training ground in Lithuania. On March 25, under unexplained circumstances, they drove an armored vehicle into a bog and died at the scene. Among them was 21-year-old Dante Taitano.
Funeral ceremonies are scheduled to begin soon in Europe, after which Dante Taitano's body will be transported to the United States. The U.S. Army provides flights and accommodation for three family members of the deceased. However, the 21-year-old had five siblings, and each of them would like to say goodbye to their brother.
Friends of the deceased soldier's family have therefore set up a fundraiser on GoFundMe. The money collected is intended to cover all the expenses associated with the travel of Dante Taitano's siblings to Europe.
We are raising funds for expenses, travel costs, and other unexpected financial burdens during this time. Your contributions will also help honor Dante's memory and ensure his service is never forgotten. Any amount, no matter how small, will make a meaningful difference to his loved ones. Please consider donating and sharing this campaign to spread awareness and support, the organizers of the fundraiser explain.
The response has been remarkable. Approximately $22,000 is needed for flights and accommodation for the five siblings of the deceased soldier. Within a few hours of starting the fundraiser, 80% of the needed amount (almost $18,000) has already been collected. It is very likely that the whole family will be able to travel to Europe to bid farewell to their brother.
