Remains of US Soldier Who Went Missing During Military Exercises in Morocco Have Been Recovered
The remains of a U.S. soldier missing during military exercises in Morocco have been recovered in the Atlantic Ocean
www.usnews.comDirect answer: One U.S. soldier’s remains have been recovered in the Atlantic off Morocco after two soldiers went missing during the African Lion exercises; a second soldier remains missing as of the latest reports.
Context and key details:
- The recovered service member is 1st Lt. Kendrick Lamont Key Jr., 27, of the 14A Air Defense Artillery. He was one of two U.S. soldiers who disappeared after a cliff-side hike near the Cap Draa Training Area outside Tan-Tan. The recovery occurred in the Atlantic Ocean near the shoreline, around 8:55 a.m. local time on May 9, 2026, with confirmation provided on May 10 in several outlets [source coverage from Politico and other outlets closely tracking U.S. military statements]. [cite ][cite ][cite ]
- A multinational search-and-rescue operation involved more than 600 personnel from the U.S., Morocco, and partner nations, employing ships, helicopters, drones, and other assets. The operation followed the disappearance around 9 p.m. on or near May 2, 2026. [cite ][cite ]
- The second missing soldier has not yet been recovered, and U.S. and Moroccan forces continued search efforts after the recovery of Key. Official updates emphasized ongoing search and rescue for the second service member. [cite ][cite ]
- Reports describe the incident as part of the African Lion exercises, a recurring U.S.-Morocco joint military drill series. [cite ]
What this means moving forward:
- The focus has shifted to the ongoing search for the second soldier and any additional recovery or identification steps that may follow. Public statements from the U.S. Army and allied forces indicate continued collaboration with Moroccan authorities and multinational partners. [cite ][cite ]
Would you like a concise timeline of events with dates and locations, or a brief summary of official statements from the U.S. Army and Moroccan authorities? I can also pull the latest public statements or region-specific updates if you want. [cite ]