The U.S. Army announced Sunday that the body of an American soldier has been recovered after he went missing during a training exercise in Morocco. First Lieutenant Kendrick Lamont Key Jr. Was one of two service members who disappeared just over a week ago in waters off the southern coast of Morocco.
The incident occurred near the Cap Draa Training Area on May 2. According to a preliminary report, the two soldiers were part of a group on a hike to watch the sunset when one individual, who was known to be unable to swim, fell into the water.
Defense officials stated that the second missing soldier jumped into the water in an attempt to rescue his colleague but was subsequently hit by a wave. Other soldiers attempted to rescue both men, but those efforts were unsuccessful.
Recovery and Ongoing Search Operations
A Moroccan military search team recovered Key’s body at approximately 8:55 a.m. Local time on Saturday. He was found along the shoreline, roughly one mile from the location where both soldiers vanished into the ocean.
The U.S. Army confirmed that search operations for the second, unidentified serviceman will continue. These efforts have involved more than 1,000 U.S. And Moroccan military and civil personnel.
Army officials indicated that ongoing search efforts may focus on the area where Key’s remains were found, while they continue to monitor a broader perimeter.
Legacy of 1st Lt. Kendrick Lamont Key Jr.
Key, 27, was a resident of Richmond, Virginia, and served as an air defense artillery officer with the 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command. He joined his battalion in 2025 and had risen to the rank of platoon leader.
Lt. Col. Chris Couch, commander of 5-4 ADAR, praised Key in a statement, noting he “embodied the highest standards of service as a selfless, inspirational leader whose unwavering dedication to his Soldiers and their development leaves an enduring legacy within our ranks.”
Before entering military service in 2023, Key earned a Bachelor of Science in marketing from Methodist University in North Carolina. He also completed minors in business administration, entrepreneurship, and international business.
Next Steps and Family Notification
Key is survived by his brother-in-law, his sister, and his parents. The Army confirmed that next-of-kin were notified before the public announcement was made.
His remains were transported to a local morgue, and plans are currently underway to repatriate them from Morocco to the United States.
Brigadier Gen. Curtis King, commanding general of the 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command, stated that Key’s colleagues were “grieving” and would “continue to support one another” as well as the family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Were the soldiers missing because of the African Lion exercise?
While both service members were taking part in the annual African Lion training exercise, defense officials told CBS News that the incident was not believed to be related to the event.
How did the soldiers end up in the water?
A preliminary report indicates they were on a hike to watch the sunset when one soldier, who could not swim, fell into the water; the second soldier jumped in to attempt a rescue but was hit by a wave.
Has the second soldier been found?
No, the second serviceman has not been identified or recovered, and search operations are continuing.
How should military organizations balance operational training with safety protocols during off-duty recreation in foreign environments?
