Case Overview

American Veteran
8+ Years Stranded
West Africa

Individual: Kelvin Blas, American military veteran

Location: West Africa (Togo region)

Duration: Stranded overseas for over 8 years, including 6 years in Togo

Primary Issues: Held captive by fellow army personnel in Afghanistan, Togo government illegally holding his passport, government agency failures, No consular support, documentation problems

Background

Kelvin Blas is an American U.S. Army veteran who has been stranded in West Africa for over six years due to a combination of government bureaucratic failures, no embassy support, and systemic gaps in how the United States assists black American citizens in crisis abroad. According to reports, in 2020 an Ambassador allegedly told Kelvin “Americans aren’t Black,” highlighting the discrimination he has faced while seeking assistance. His case exemplifies the challenges faced by Americans overseas when official channels fail to provide adequate assistance.

Why This Case Matters

This case highlights critical gaps in how the U.S. government supports )or lack thereof) Americans abroad, particularly veterans who may face unique challenges. The extended duration of this situation demonstrates the need for improved advocacy and accountability in consular services and veteran support systems.

Current Situation

Based on available information, Kelvin Blas continues to face significant challenges including:

  • Health Concerns: Limited access to adequate medical care and health challenges
  • Documentation Issues: Problems with passport and official documentation needed for travel
  • Accommodation: Inadequate housing and living conditions
  • Currently Living on the streets Help bring Kelvin Home to the States
  • Government Response: No support from official U.S. government channels
  • Regional Challenges: Political and economic instability in the region

These ongoing challenges underscore the urgent need for coordinated advocacy efforts and improved government responsiveness to Americans in crisis overseas.

Our Advocacy Efforts

CFW is pursuing multiple advocacy strategies to support Kelvin Blas and address the systemic issues his case represents.

Congressional Engagement

Contacting representatives to pressure relevant agencies for action

Media Outreach

Working with journalists to bring attention to the case

Legal Research

Exploring legal options and remedies available

FOIA Requests

Using FOIA tools to document government Inactions

Public Awareness

Building public support and pressure for resolution

Agency Coordination

Working to coordinate between relevant government agencies

Documentation and Accountability

We maintain detailed records of all advocacy efforts, government responses, and case developments. This documentation serves both to support ongoing advocacy and to create accountability for government actions and inactions.

Timeline of Advocacy

2025 – Case Prioritization

Covenant for Forgotten Warriors identifies this case as a priority advocacy effort, representing systemic issues affecting Americans overseas.

Ongoing – Multi-Channel Advocacy

Coordinated efforts across legal, media, congressional, and public awareness channels to pressure for resolution and support.

Current Status – Active Advocacy

Continued pressure on relevant agencies and coordination of support efforts. Case remains a priority focus for CFW advocacy efforts.