Summary (tl;dr)

The remains of a U.S. soldier who went missing during a recreational hike in Morocco have been recovered, while the search for a second missing soldier continues.

Essential Background

Two U.S. Army soldiers were reported missing on May 2, 2026, near ocean cliffs in the Cap Draa Training Area in southern Morocco. They were off duty and on a recreational hike after participating in the annual African Lion military exercise when one soldier fell into the Atlantic Ocean. First Lieutenant Kendrick Lamont Key Jr. then reportedly jumped in to attempt a rescue, and a third soldier also entered the water but was able to return to shore safely.

The Full Story

A Moroccan military search team recovered the body of 1st Lt. Kendrick Lamont Key Jr. on May 9, 2026, in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately one mile from where he and the other soldier entered the water. The U.S. Army confirmed the recovery on Sunday, May 10, 2026. A large-scale international search and rescue operation, involving more than 600 personnel from the United States, Morocco, and other partner nations, utilizing frigates, vessels, helicopters, and drones, has been underway since the soldiers' disappearance. Search efforts are continuing for the second missing soldier.

Why It Matters

This incident highlights the inherent risks faced by military personnel, even during non-training activities, while deployed internationally. It also underscores the strong collaborative efforts between the U.S. and Moroccan militaries in joint exercises and search and rescue operations. The ongoing search for the remaining soldier demonstrates the commitment to accounting for all service members.

Geographic Location

• Cap Draa Training Area, Tan-Tan, Guelmim-Oued Noun, Morocco (location where soldiers went missing after falling from a cliff)
• Atlantic Ocean, Morocco (location where the remains of 1st Lt. Kendrick Lamont Key Jr. were recovered)