U.S. Soldier Kendrick Key Recovered Off Morocco Shore

The body of 1st Lt. Kendrick Lamont Key Jr. was recovered May 9 by a Moroccan military search team along the shoreline near the Cap Draa Training Area, about one mile from where two U.S. soldiers were reported missing May 2.

The two U.S. service members disappeared May 2 while participating in African Lion 26 near Tan-Tan during a multinational training exercise, prompting extensive search-and-rescue operations.

Brig. Gen. Curtis King said the 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command is grieving and will support Key's family, and Lt. Col. Chris Couch described Key as a selfless, inspirational leader, according to Army statements.

Search efforts have involved roughly 600 to over 1,000 U.S., Moroccan and partner military and civilian personnel employing frigates, vessels, helicopters, drones and specialized teams, and plans are underway to repatriate Key's remains.

Search operations for the second missing U.S. soldier remain underway, with U.S. and Moroccan forces continuing to focus around the recovery area while monitoring a broader perimeter.