The body of a soldier assigned to the 1st Infantry Division’s 1st Combat Aviation Brigade was recovered Wednesday at Milford Lake by civil authorities.

Spc. Thomas L. Hedrick III, 31, of Thebes, Ill. drowned Dec. 24 after falling the through the ice on the Lake while duck hunting.

“We are deeply saddened by this tragedy, yet thankful that our civil partners, particularly those from Geary County, were able to recover Thomas’ remains, ” said Maj. Gen. Paul E. Funk II, 1st Inf. Div. and Fort Riley commanding general. ” We hope this begins to bring much needed closure and peace to his family and friends, whom we continue to support during this very trying time.”

Civil authorities suspended their search and recovery efforts for Spc. Hedrick on Dec. 24 when weather and icy lake conditions worsened, but resumed them Dec. 28 after conditions improved. Efforts were again halted Dec. 29 as the weather again worsened, but resumed again Monday when conditions improved.

“Given the extremely perilous weather and lake conditions, I am convinced that Thomas’ recovery would not have been possible without the teamwork, professionalism and determination of our local, regional, state and other involved partners,” said Funk.