RABAT, May 11, 2026 (Agencies): The remains of a missing U.S. Army soldier have been recovered off the southern coast of Morocco, one week after he disappeared during a joint military exercise, U.S. military officials said.
First Lt. Kendrick Lamont Key Jr., 27, of Richmond, Virginia, was found Saturday after he and another soldier went missing on May 2 near the Cap Draa Training Area when they entered the Atlantic Ocean during African Lion 26, the largest annual joint exercise led by U.S. Africa Command.
Moroccan military search teams located Key’s body approximately one mile from where the two soldiers reportedly entered the water near a cliffside area. His remains were transported by helicopter to Moulay El Hassan Military Hospital in Guelmim, Morocco, with repatriation arrangements now underway.
The second missing service member remains unaccounted for as search operations continue.
Key served as an air defense artillery officer with Charlie Battery, 5th Battalion, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, assigned to the 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command. He joined the unit in 2025 after graduating from Methodist University and entering military service through officer candidate school.
Military officials described Key as a dedicated and inspirational leader deeply committed to the welfare and development of his soldiers.
African Lion 26 involved participation from more than 40 countries across multiple African nations, including Morocco, Ghana, Senegal and Tunisia.
Over 1,000 U.S. and Moroccan personnel have participated in the search mission, supported by Moroccan dive teams, aircraft, maritime units and surveillance assets.
U.S. and Moroccan commanders praised the extensive cooperation in the ongoing effort to locate the remaining missing soldier.