Welcome to HonorFirst.com
A Comprehensive Resource for the U.S. Border Patrol Community
Preserving the Legacy - Empowering the Future
An Unofficial Website of the U.S. Border Patrol
Founded in the mid-1990s by Ray Harris, HonorFirst.com is dedicated to preserving the rich history and supporting the future of the U.S. Border Patrol. As a leading educational resource, we aim to inform, educate, and connect individuals interested in this vital national service. Whether you are an aspiring Border Patrol Agent, a current or former employee, or simply someone interested in the agency’s history and mission, HonorFirst.com is here to guide and inspire you.
Preparing Future Border Patrol Agents: Begin your journey with confidence through our “For USBP Applicants” section. We provide in-depth guidance on the hiring process, insights into life as a Border Patrol Agent, and practical resources to help you transition from “online to the Border Line.” Our goal is to educate and support the next generation of agents as they prepare to protect and serve our nation.
Preserving and Honoring Border Patrol History: HonorFirst.com is committed to preserving and sharing the rich history of the U.S. Border Patrol. Our “USBP Pages and Links” section offers historical accounts, personal stories from agents, and tributes to those who have served. With over 2,000 photographs and extensive resources, we celebrate the legacy and traditions that define the Border Patrol.
Educating and Connecting the Community: We continually expand and update our content to serve as a trusted educational resource for the public and the Border Patrol community. Through our articles, blogs, and outreach, we aim to inform and inspire while honoring the agency’s mission. While we strive to provide comprehensive information, we encourage visitors to consult official government sources and Border Patrol Recruiters for the most current details.
Thank you for visiting HonorFirst.com. We invite you to explore, learn, and stay connected with the U.S. Border Patrol community. Use our dropdown menus for tailored content or tap the hamburger icon (☰) for easy mobile navigation. Join us in honoring the past, supporting the present, and inspiring the future of the U.S. Border Patrol.
Preparing Future Border Patrol Agents: Begin your journey with confidence through our “For USBP Applicants” section. We provide in-depth guidance on the hiring process, insights into life as a Border Patrol Agent, and practical resources to help you transition from “online to the Border Line.” Our goal is to educate and support the next generation of agents as they prepare to protect and serve our nation.
Preserving and Honoring Border Patrol History: HonorFirst.com is committed to preserving and sharing the rich history of the U.S. Border Patrol. Our “USBP Pages and Links” section offers historical accounts, personal stories from agents, and tributes to those who have served. With over 2,000 photographs and extensive resources, we celebrate the legacy and traditions that define the Border Patrol.
Educating and Connecting the Community: We continually expand and update our content to serve as a trusted educational resource for the public and the Border Patrol community. Through our articles, blogs, and outreach, we aim to inform and inspire while honoring the agency’s mission. While we strive to provide comprehensive information, we encourage visitors to consult official government sources and Border Patrol Recruiters for the most current details.
Thank you for visiting HonorFirst.com. We invite you to explore, learn, and stay connected with the U.S. Border Patrol community. Use our dropdown menus for tailored content or tap the hamburger icon (☰) for easy mobile navigation. Join us in honoring the past, supporting the present, and inspiring the future of the U.S. Border Patrol.
U.S. Border Patrol Agent Badge
U.S. Border Patrol 100th Anniversary Tribute Edition Rifles
An advertisement for Henry Repeating Arms, one of America’s leading firearms manufacturers and the world-leader in the lever action category.
HonorFirst.com receives no payment or benefit for posting this advertisement.
NOW AVAILABLE TO THE FOLLOWING ELIGIBLE CUSTOMERS:
- Active duty, retired, and former Border Patrol Agents (Academy Class Number req’d)
- Active duty Customs and Border Protection employees (Copy of PIV card req’d)
In celebration of the U.S. Border Patrol’s 100th anniversary and as a continuation of our steadfast support for America’s law enforcement professionals, Henry Repeating Arms is proud to partner with the Border Patrol Museum and offer these officially licensed rifles for eligible customers.
To ensure the legacy lives on, Henry Repeating Arms is donating a portion of every sale to The Border Patrol Museum in El Paso, Texas. The Border Patrol Museum, the only museum of its kind in the United States, receives no federal funding and relies solely on donations to operate, acquire exhibit materials, and keep the doors open for visitors.
There are four models to choose from depending on badge preference, and there are two convenient gift card options. Please note that eligibility verification is still required for gift card recipients.
To ensure the legacy lives on, Henry Repeating Arms is donating a portion of every sale to The Border Patrol Museum in El Paso, Texas. The Border Patrol Museum, the only museum of its kind in the United States, receives no federal funding and relies solely on donations to operate, acquire exhibit materials, and keep the doors open for visitors.
There are four models to choose from depending on badge preference, and there are two convenient gift card options. Please note that eligibility verification is still required for gift card recipients.
This Week in USBP History
A new one posted every Sunday!
Last update - January 19, 2025
Last update - January 19, 2025
This week we honor the bravery and sacrifice of agents who exemplified courage in the line of duty. On January 19, 1985, Border Patrol Agent John J. Burgmeier III risked his life to save individuals from a burning home in Yuma, Arizona, leading to the arrest of an arson suspect. We also remember Senior Patrol Agent Jefferson L. Barr, tragically killed in 1996 during a narcotics interdiction operation in the Del Rio Sector, and Senior Patrol Agent Luis A. Aguilar, who selflessly gave his life in 2008 to protect a fellow agent from a smuggler in the Yuma Sector. January 20 marks the passing of Senior Patrol Agent Rene B. Garza in 1999 while on horseback patrol in New Mexico’s Skeleton Canyon. This week also highlights historic milestones, such as the first large Border Patrol security deployment at a presidential inauguration in 1969 and the inaugural participation of the Border Patrol Horse Patrol in the 1989 parade. We celebrate the progress of women in the Patrol with Jennifer A. Parra becoming the first second-generation female agent in 1997. Lastly, we remember Border Patrol Agent Aurelio E. Valencia, who tragically died in a vehicle accident on January 25, 1996. Their stories remind us of the unwavering dedication and heroism of those who safeguard our nation’s borders.
Discover more on the U.S. Border Patrol History page.
Embark on Your Border Patrol Journey
Begin exploring the rewarding career of a U.S. Border Patrol Agent right here. At HonorFirst.com, we provide a snapshot of the critical roles and responsibilities these agents undertake in safeguarding our nation. Discover the dedication, skills, and commitment required for this honorable profession.
HonorFirst.com, founded and managed by Ray Harris, serves as a comprehensive resource for aspiring agents. Ray, a retired U.S. Border Patrol Agent and Special Agent, established this platform to guide and support those interested in joining the ranks of the Border Patrol. His expertise and dedication continue to make this site an invaluable tool for the Border Patrol community.
- Recruitment Incentive: Learn about the attractive incentives for new agents, including up to $30,000 for those who meet specific criteria.
- Your Path to the Border Patrol: For an in-depth look at the duties, responsibilities, and opportunities in a Border Patrol career, visit our 'Duties and Careers in the Border Patrol' page. Discover your path to a rewarding career with our 'Journey to Becoming a U.S. Border Patrol Agent' page, offering four distinct links to USAJobs for various opportunities to apply as a Border Patrol Agent.
HonorFirst.com, founded and managed by Ray Harris, serves as a comprehensive resource for aspiring agents. Ray, a retired U.S. Border Patrol Agent and Special Agent, established this platform to guide and support those interested in joining the ranks of the Border Patrol. His expertise and dedication continue to make this site an invaluable tool for the Border Patrol community.
Forums
Join Our Legacy Forums at HonorFirst.com on Delphi Forums!
For over two decades, HonorFirst.com, in collaboration with Delphi Forums, has been the trusted bridge connecting the U.S. Border Patrol community. Whether you’re an aspiring trainee seeking insights into the application process or a seasoned agent looking to engage with peers, our forums have you covered.
Note: The Applicant’s Forum on Delphi has been retired. We encourage you to join the BorderPatrolApplicant Reddit Community for invaluable guidance and support from the next generation of Border Patrol applicants and agents.
Current and former agents can still explore the Agent’s Forum to share experiences, stories, and advice. Become a part of our longstanding tradition of camaraderie and support. Join the conversation today!
Note: The Applicant’s Forum on Delphi has been retired. We encourage you to join the BorderPatrolApplicant Reddit Community for invaluable guidance and support from the next generation of Border Patrol applicants and agents.
Current and former agents can still explore the Agent’s Forum to share experiences, stories, and advice. Become a part of our longstanding tradition of camaraderie and support. Join the conversation today!
Ray Harris
A Legacy of Exceptional Meritorious Service to the U.S. Border Patrol Recognized
Ray Harris
Citation for exceptional meritorious service
Since 1996, retired Immigration Special Agent and 17-year U.S. Border Patrol veteran Ray Harris has maintained honorfirst.com and an accompanying applicant message forum, both of which he created. For over two decades, the applicant's forum has posted more than 580,00 questions, responses and comments. The forum boasts nearly 48,000 members with nearly 3.5 million guest visits. Honorfirst.com receives over 1,000 visits per week. No single person has had a greater, positive impact on U.S. Border Patrol recruitment efforts than Ray Harris. Mr. Harris' efforts have brought great credit upon himself to the benefit and gratitude of the U.S. Border Patrol.
Citation for exceptional meritorious service
Since 1996, retired Immigration Special Agent and 17-year U.S. Border Patrol veteran Ray Harris has maintained honorfirst.com and an accompanying applicant message forum, both of which he created. For over two decades, the applicant's forum has posted more than 580,00 questions, responses and comments. The forum boasts nearly 48,000 members with nearly 3.5 million guest visits. Honorfirst.com receives over 1,000 visits per week. No single person has had a greater, positive impact on U.S. Border Patrol recruitment efforts than Ray Harris. Mr. Harris' efforts have brought great credit upon himself to the benefit and gratitude of the U.S. Border Patrol.
MARIJUANA
Is Marijuana legal in your state? Since you are reading this, hopefully, you will not also be a doper. If you ARE interested in becoming a Border Patrol Agent, you need to be aware that Marijuana is STILL a VIOLATION of federal law. This is so important that I am posting it on the home page.
So make up your mind NOW:
DOPER or BORDER PATROL AGENT
Bookmark this page and check back frequently.
Prepare to Begin The
Adventure of Your LIFE!
A Career with the
United States Border Patrol.
Adventure of Your LIFE!
A Career with the
United States Border Patrol.
