From Jamaica to Valor: U.S. Army Veteran Detained by ICE Over Turn Signal Violation After 50 Years in America

Godfrey Wade, a 65-year-old U.S. Army veteran from Jamaica, arrived in the United States 50 years ago, obtaining permanent residency with a green card. After serving eight years in the Army, largely in Germany, he settled in Georgia and built a diverse career as a fashion designer, master tailor, chef, and tennis coach while raising a family. This tranquil life was disrupted in September when a traffic stop for a minor infraction revealed he was driving without a license, resulting in his arrest and subsequent detention by ICE for three months. Wade’s family is fervently advocating for his release through a GoFundMe campaign that has raised over $24,000 for legal fees. His fiancée, April Watkins, expressed heartache over the situation, emphasizing his commitment to serving the nation. Wade’s enduring belief in America persists as he awaits a court hearing, determined to share his story and fight for justice among the challenges he faces in detention.