The body of a U.S. soldier who went missing during training in Morocco has been found, according to reports. Atlantic. Military teams are still actively searching for a second soldier who is also missing after falling from a cliff during a recreational hike a week ago.
Lieutenant Kendrick Lamont Kay’s body found
The body of Lieutenant Kendrick Lamont Key, a 27-year-old anti-aircraft artillery officer from Richmond, virginiaThe man was found Saturday in the water about a mile from where he fell. His body was taken to a nearby morgue and will be shipped back to the United States.
The two soldiers were declared missing on May 2 after taking part in the African Lion annual multinational military exercise. Morocco.
According to the BBC, U.S. Army Europe and Africa said: “At approximately 8:55 a.m. local time on May 9, a Moroccan military search team found the soldier in the water on the coastline, less than a mile from where the two soldiers allegedly entered the ocean.”
They were reported missing around 9pm near the Cap Draa training area on the outskirts of Tan-Tan, an area described as mountainous, desert and semi-desert plains. Morocco army.
Their disappearance triggered a search and rescue operation involving more than 600 personnel from the United States, Morocco and other military allies.
The operation included the deployment of frigates, ships, helicopters and drones.
A contingent from the United States remains Morocco Assisting with ongoing search and rescue efforts after military exercises on Friday.
Achievements of Lieutenant Kendrick Lamont Key
Lieutenant Key’s honors include the Army Achievement Medal and the Army Service Ribbon.
He began his military career as an officer candidate in 2023 and was commissioned through Officer Candidate School in 2024, specifically as an anti-aircraft artillery officer.
He then completed the Basic Officer Leadership Course at Fort Sill, Oklahoma.
“Our hearts go out to his family, friends, teammates and everyone who knew him and fought alongside him,” said Curtis King, commander of the 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command.
“The 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command family is devastated and we will continue to support each other and the family of Lt. Kiichi in honoring his life and service.”
What is African Lion 26?
The “African Lion 26” military exercise is led by the United States and hosted by four countries: Morocco, Tunisia, Ghana, and Senegal, with more than 7,000 personnel from more than 30 countries participating.
Since its launch in 2004, it is the largest joint military exercise conducted by the United States in Africa.
In 2012, a helicopter crash occurred in the southern Moroccan city of Agadir, killing two U.S. Marines and injuring two others while participating in an exercise.
