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
Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Eric Cespedes
Sacrifices Life to Save Children
Official CBP Statement
EDINBURG, Texas — With heavy hearts and deep reverence, we announce the passing of Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Eric Cespedes, who tragically drowned while saving the lives of his children.
On July 11, 2025, while spending time with his family at South Padre Island, Texas, Agent Cespedes entered the water to rescue his children, who had been caught in a strong rip current. His selfless bravery ensured their survival, but it cost him his own life.
Agent Cespedes was a dedicated public servant who served the United States Border Patrol with integrity, honor, and a profound sense of duty. Throughout his career, he exemplified leadership, sacrifice, and compassion—values that defined both his professional and personal life.
“He was a protector both in uniform and at home,” said Rio Grande Valley Sector Chief Patrol Agent Gloria I. Chavez. “His final act was that of a hero and a testament to the unwavering love he carried for his children and family. We will always remember Eric as our brother in green, and his courage will never be forgotten.”
A memorial service to honor Agent Cespedes’ legacy will be announced in the coming days. His life and sacrifice stand as a powerful reminder of the quiet heroism demonstrated daily by those who serve our communities.
EDINBURG, Texas — With heavy hearts and deep reverence, we announce the passing of Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Eric Cespedes, who tragically drowned while saving the lives of his children.
On July 11, 2025, while spending time with his family at South Padre Island, Texas, Agent Cespedes entered the water to rescue his children, who had been caught in a strong rip current. His selfless bravery ensured their survival, but it cost him his own life.
Agent Cespedes was a dedicated public servant who served the United States Border Patrol with integrity, honor, and a profound sense of duty. Throughout his career, he exemplified leadership, sacrifice, and compassion—values that defined both his professional and personal life.
“He was a protector both in uniform and at home,” said Rio Grande Valley Sector Chief Patrol Agent Gloria I. Chavez. “His final act was that of a hero and a testament to the unwavering love he carried for his children and family. We will always remember Eric as our brother in green, and his courage will never be forgotten.”
A memorial service to honor Agent Cespedes’ legacy will be announced in the coming days. His life and sacrifice stand as a powerful reminder of the quiet heroism demonstrated daily by those who serve our communities.
This Week in USBP History
Updated every Sunday!
Last update - July 6, 2025
Last update - July 6, 2025
This week, we reflect on moments that underscore the valor, history, and evolving traditions of the United States Border Patrol.
On July 14, 1989, Air Operation Supervisor David F. Roberson tragically lost his life in the line of duty while providing aerial support to fellow agents near Yuma, Arizona. His sacrifice is remembered with profound respect.
Two Newton-Azrak Award anniversaries highlight extraordinary acts of bravery. On July 16, 1997, San Diego Sector agents Guadalupe Chacon and Elizabeth Ebisuzaki risked their lives to rescue four individuals locked in a burning vehicle’s trunk. On July 19, 2011, five Houlton Sector agents—Christopher J. Dlugokinski, Gabriel Pratt, Michael Mielnicki, Abraham Reeder, and Erich S. Rohr—heroically responded to a catastrophic accident involving the home of a fellow agent, digging through wreckage to reach a trapped family.
We also mark the solemn anniversary of Border Patrol Agent James R. Dominguez, who was fatally struck by a vehicle while on duty on July 19, 2012. His commitment to service and the memory of his life remain with us.
In historical milestones, July 14, 1961, saw the Border Patrol Academy relocate to Los Fresnos, Texas, with Class 78 as its first graduates. The week also commemorates the formal naming of the Theodore L. Newton Jr. and George F. Azrak Station on July 15, 2008—honoring two heroes lost in the line of duty.
We revisit foundational correspondences from the 1930s affirming the Patrol’s longstanding commitment to marksmanship and collaboration with local law enforcement, and examine the legacy of Jefferson Davis Milton, whose retirement memo clarified his notable but separate role in federal law enforcement.
From the inception of international deportation flights in 1955 to the establishment of the Border Patrol Pipes and Drums Unit in 2007, this week’s events collectively remind us of the bravery, legacy, and enduring service ethos of the men and women of the U.S. Border Patrol.
On July 14, 1989, Air Operation Supervisor David F. Roberson tragically lost his life in the line of duty while providing aerial support to fellow agents near Yuma, Arizona. His sacrifice is remembered with profound respect.
Two Newton-Azrak Award anniversaries highlight extraordinary acts of bravery. On July 16, 1997, San Diego Sector agents Guadalupe Chacon and Elizabeth Ebisuzaki risked their lives to rescue four individuals locked in a burning vehicle’s trunk. On July 19, 2011, five Houlton Sector agents—Christopher J. Dlugokinski, Gabriel Pratt, Michael Mielnicki, Abraham Reeder, and Erich S. Rohr—heroically responded to a catastrophic accident involving the home of a fellow agent, digging through wreckage to reach a trapped family.
We also mark the solemn anniversary of Border Patrol Agent James R. Dominguez, who was fatally struck by a vehicle while on duty on July 19, 2012. His commitment to service and the memory of his life remain with us.
In historical milestones, July 14, 1961, saw the Border Patrol Academy relocate to Los Fresnos, Texas, with Class 78 as its first graduates. The week also commemorates the formal naming of the Theodore L. Newton Jr. and George F. Azrak Station on July 15, 2008—honoring two heroes lost in the line of duty.
We revisit foundational correspondences from the 1930s affirming the Patrol’s longstanding commitment to marksmanship and collaboration with local law enforcement, and examine the legacy of Jefferson Davis Milton, whose retirement memo clarified his notable but separate role in federal law enforcement.
From the inception of international deportation flights in 1955 to the establishment of the Border Patrol Pipes and Drums Unit in 2007, this week’s events collectively remind us of the bravery, legacy, and enduring service ethos of the men and women of the U.S. Border Patrol.
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.
