Welcome to HonorFirst.com
A Comprehensive Resource for the U.S. Border Patrol Community
Preserving the Legacy - Empowering the Future
An Independent Educational Resource on the U.S. Border Patrol
Founded in the mid-1990s by Ray Harris, HonorFirst.com began as a resource to help those interested in joining the U.S. Border Patrol and navigating the hiring process. Over time, it evolved into a volunteer-driven effort dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the U.S. Border Patrol. As an educational platform, we research, document, and archive historical information to ensure the agency’s legacy remains accessible to the public. In 2025, HonorFirst.com was officially recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization, and donations are now tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Understanding the Border Patrol Career Path: Our “For USBP Applicants” section organizes publicly available information to help individuals understand the historical context of the Border Patrol hiring process and career expectations. While we present general insights based on historical records and official sources, all applicants should consult CBP.gov and USAJobs.gov for the most current hiring details. HonorFirst.com is an independent educational platform and does not provide recruitment services or official hiring guidance.
Preserving and Sharing Border Patrol History: HonorFirst.com is dedicated to researching, documenting, and preserving the history of the U.S. Border Patrol. Our “USBP Pages and Links” section provides access to historical records, firsthand narratives, and a collection of over 2,000 photographs, ensuring that the contributions of Border Patrol personnel are recognized and accessible for future generations.
Educating and Connecting the Community: We continually expand and update our content to serve as a trusted, independent educational resource on the history of the U.S. Border Patrol. Through historical articles, research archives, and outreach efforts, we aim to document and preserve the legacy of Border Patrol personnel and operations. While we strive to provide accurate and comprehensive historical information, we encourage visitors to consult official government sources for current policies and operational 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.
Understanding the Border Patrol Career Path: Our “For USBP Applicants” section organizes publicly available information to help individuals understand the historical context of the Border Patrol hiring process and career expectations. While we present general insights based on historical records and official sources, all applicants should consult CBP.gov and USAJobs.gov for the most current hiring details. HonorFirst.com is an independent educational platform and does not provide recruitment services or official hiring guidance.
Preserving and Sharing Border Patrol History: HonorFirst.com is dedicated to researching, documenting, and preserving the history of the U.S. Border Patrol. Our “USBP Pages and Links” section provides access to historical records, firsthand narratives, and a collection of over 2,000 photographs, ensuring that the contributions of Border Patrol personnel are recognized and accessible for future generations.
Educating and Connecting the Community: We continually expand and update our content to serve as a trusted, independent educational resource on the history of the U.S. Border Patrol. Through historical articles, research archives, and outreach efforts, we aim to document and preserve the legacy of Border Patrol personnel and operations. While we strive to provide accurate and comprehensive historical information, we encourage visitors to consult official government sources for current policies and operational 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
This Week in USBP History
Updated every Sunday!
Last update - April 13, 2025
Last update - April 13, 2025
This week we reflect on pivotal developments and honor fallen heroes whose sacrifices shaped the legacy of the Patrol.
On April 13, 1904, Milton began his service as a Chinese Inspector in the Tucson District—foreshadowing early federal border enforcement before the official creation of the Border Patrol. Eighteen years later, on April 13, 1922, Frank Berkshire—widely regarded as the Father of the Border Patrol—articulated a vision for a unified border patrol force under one organization, a principle that wouldn’t be realized until 2003.
April 13, 1937, saw the Newport District inventorying firearms during a major transition to the Colt New Service Model .38 revolver, with legendary Patrol Inspector Charles Askins visiting the region.
This week we solemnly remember three heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Mounted Watchman Clarence M. Childress was fatally wounded on April 16, 1919, during a gunfight with smugglers near El Paso, Texas. On April 16, 1960, Patrol Inspector Archie L. Jennings lost his life at a checkpoint near Oceanside, California, after being struck by a vehicle. And on April 18, 1995, Border Patrol Agent Joe R. White, a dedicated canine handler in Laredo Sector, died of a heart attack while on duty. Also on April 18, 2016, Agent Jose D. Barraza lost his life in a tragic vehicle collision near Sierra Blanca, Texas.
The week also highlights legislative and structural advancements, including the April 18, 1918 correspondence affirming Berkshire’s proposal to form a “border patrol,” and the 1956 Senate bill aimed at expanding Border Patrol facilities. The Patrol’s Canine Program marked a turning point on April 18, 1987, with the deployment of new K-9 teams in McAllen and Laredo Sectors.
Finally, on April 19, we look back on the unique history of the Patrol’s “lion-tamer” pith helmets and the 1977 graduation of the first Border Patrol Academy class at FLETC Glynco—milestones reflecting the evolution of both tradition and training.
On April 13, 1904, Milton began his service as a Chinese Inspector in the Tucson District—foreshadowing early federal border enforcement before the official creation of the Border Patrol. Eighteen years later, on April 13, 1922, Frank Berkshire—widely regarded as the Father of the Border Patrol—articulated a vision for a unified border patrol force under one organization, a principle that wouldn’t be realized until 2003.
April 13, 1937, saw the Newport District inventorying firearms during a major transition to the Colt New Service Model .38 revolver, with legendary Patrol Inspector Charles Askins visiting the region.
This week we solemnly remember three heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Mounted Watchman Clarence M. Childress was fatally wounded on April 16, 1919, during a gunfight with smugglers near El Paso, Texas. On April 16, 1960, Patrol Inspector Archie L. Jennings lost his life at a checkpoint near Oceanside, California, after being struck by a vehicle. And on April 18, 1995, Border Patrol Agent Joe R. White, a dedicated canine handler in Laredo Sector, died of a heart attack while on duty. Also on April 18, 2016, Agent Jose D. Barraza lost his life in a tragic vehicle collision near Sierra Blanca, Texas.
The week also highlights legislative and structural advancements, including the April 18, 1918 correspondence affirming Berkshire’s proposal to form a “border patrol,” and the 1956 Senate bill aimed at expanding Border Patrol facilities. The Patrol’s Canine Program marked a turning point on April 18, 1987, with the deployment of new K-9 teams in McAllen and Laredo Sectors.
Finally, on April 19, we look back on the unique history of the Patrol’s “lion-tamer” pith helmets and the 1977 graduation of the first Border Patrol Academy class at FLETC Glynco—milestones reflecting the evolution of both tradition and training.
Discover more on the U.S. Border Patrol History page.
UNDERSTANDING THE BORDER PATROL CAREER PATH
The U.S. Border Patrol has played a significant role in national security and immigration enforcement throughout its history. At HonorFirst.com, we provide historical context and publicly available resources to help individuals understand the evolution of the agency’s duties, responsibilities, and challenges. For official hiring details and current career opportunities, visitors should consult CBP.gov and USAJobs.gov.
For a broader look at the Border Patrol’s duties, visit our Duties and Careers in the Border Patrol page. Additionally, those seeking to explore official hiring announcements can find publicly available job postings through our Journey to Becoming a U.S. Border Patrol Agent page, which links to the relevant postings on USAJobs.gov.
Independent Educational Resource
HonorFirst.com was founded by retired U.S. Border Patrol Agent and Special Agent Ray Harris as an independent historical resource. The site remains dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of the U.S. Border Patrol and does not provide hiring guidance or recruitment services. For official hiring information, visitors should refer to CBP.gov and USAJobs.gov.
For a broader look at the Border Patrol’s duties, visit our Duties and Careers in the Border Patrol page. Additionally, those seeking to explore official hiring announcements can find publicly available job postings through our Journey to Becoming a U.S. Border Patrol Agent page, which links to the relevant postings on USAJobs.gov.
Independent Educational Resource
HonorFirst.com was founded by retired U.S. Border Patrol Agent and Special Agent Ray Harris as an independent historical resource. The site remains dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of the U.S. Border Patrol and does not provide hiring guidance or recruitment services. For official hiring information, visitors should refer to CBP.gov and USAJobs.gov.
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 580,000 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 580,000 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 AND FEDERAL LAW
While some states have legalized marijuana, it remains illegal under federal law, and federal agencies enforce nationwide standards. Individuals interested in federal law enforcement careers, including the U.S. Border Patrol, should be aware of these legal requirements and consult official government sources for further information.
Before pursuing this career path, be mindful of the legal and professional expectations required for federal law enforcement.
While some states have legalized marijuana, it remains illegal under federal law, and federal agencies enforce nationwide standards. Individuals interested in federal law enforcement careers, including the U.S. Border Patrol, should be aware of these legal requirements and consult official government sources for further information.
Before pursuing this career path, be mindful of the legal and professional expectations required for federal law enforcement.
Bookmark this page and check back frequently.
Prepare for an Exciting and Rewarding Career
Join the United States Border Patrol and take on a challenging and fulfilling mission in federal law enforcement.
Join the United States Border Patrol and take on a challenging and fulfilling mission in federal law enforcement.
