January 26 - February 1Welcome to another This Week in USBP History! This week we explore pivotal moments that shaped the Patrol’s proud legacy. On January 27, 1925, Commissioner-General William W. Husband highlighted the Border Patrol’s independence and secured vital funding that signaled Congressional support for the growing organization. The 1980 Winter Olympics saw agents deployed to safeguard the Olympic Security Area, demonstrating the Patrol’s operational adaptability. In 1928, Border Patrol Inspectors in El Paso united to counter disinformation, showcasing their camaraderie and high morale. From badge inventories in 1939 to the formation of anti-smuggling units in 1978, these milestones honor the evolution and resilience of the Border Patrol. Cliff P.S. - As an open and continuous invitation to current and former USBP employees, I am always accepting photos to post in the USBP Photo Galleries and in the Upholding Honor First pages. I sure would appreciate you visiting those pages and sending me anything that you think I could post (just send them to [email protected]). As always, make sure to explore all of the hyperlinks to the documents and pages. Finally, please forward this blog to whomever you think may enjoy it. THIS WEEK'S USBP ANNIVERSARIES AND MILESTONESJanuary 26
Today marks a quiet day in USBP history. January 27 On January 27, 1925, Commissioner-General William W. Husband (1871-1942) wrote a memo to Irving F. Wixon (1884-1962) who was the Commissioner of the Montreal District. A few of items of interest:
From January 27, 1980 to February 27, 1980, a Lake Placid Operational Detail from the Rouses Point Station (ROB) consisting of Harry Van Leuvan (1923-1995), John Koren, Thomas McGrath, Richard Walker, and John Ward were deployed to patrol and respond to incidents in what was designated as the Olympic Security area, which included Olympic venues and support facilities located both in the Swanton and Ogdensburg Sector AORs.
January 28 Today marks a quiet day in USBP history. January 29 Today marks a quiet day in USBP history. January 30 In another article posted in the El Paso Herald on January 30, 1928, anonymous sources were spreading disinformation claiming that “there was friction and dissatisfaction among the members of the United States Immigration Border Patrol at El Paso, Texas.” This prompted the 44 Border Patrol Inspectors of the El Paso Sub-District to send multiple memoranda with their names to Headquarters to “go on the record and state, that, THERE IS NO FRICTION OR DISSATISFACTION AMONG US AND OUR MORALE IS HIGH.”
January 31 On January 31, 1939, in response to a request from the Central Office (HQ) to send an inventory of all badges and cap insignia, two districts completed their reports; the Seattle District and the St. Paul District. The San Antonio District would complete their report on February 3rd.
February 1 This February 1, 1941, memorandum discusses constructing a new HQ building in El Paso, replacing Camp Chigas. The new El Paso HQ would be constructed in the mid-1950’s. However, due to border adjustments from the Chamizal Treaty, the building now lies in Mexico. When Commissioner Leonel Castillo (Tio Leo) (1939-2013) directed the formation of a National Anti-Smuggling Project on February 1, 1978, the Border Patrol already had a force of 67 Border Patrol Agents conducting anti-smuggling operations at the Sector level. While in comparison, the Inspections side of the INS house had 25 Criminal Investigators conducting anti-smuggling operations.
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January 19 - January 25Welcome to another This Week in USBP History! 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. Cliff P.S. - As an open and continuous invitation to current and former USBP employees, I am always accepting photos to post in the USBP Photo Galleries and in the Upholding Honor First pages. I sure would appreciate you visiting those pages and sending me anything that you think I could post (just send them to [email protected]). As always, make sure to explore all of the hyperlinks to the documents and pages. Finally, please forward this blog to whomever you think may enjoy it. THIS WEEK'S USBP ANNIVERSARIES AND MILESTONESJanuary 19
Newton-Azrak Award action anniversary John J. Burgmeier III - photo, memo Border Patrol Agent Yuma, Arizona On January 19, 1985, while on duty, Border Patrol Agent John J. Burgmeier observed a house engulfed in flames. He reacted by notifying the Border Patrol Radio Operator and requested the Yuma Fire Department. He then proceeded to the front door of the house and encountered a woman who informed him that her mother and son were still in the burning house. Without hesitation, he entered the burning. Smoke filled home and attempted to rescue the individuals. Almost overcome by smoke, he came outside, at which time the woman who he initially encountered pointed out a man nearby and indicated he was the one who started the fire. Agent Burgmeier immediately took the suspect into custody. At this time a second officer appeared, to whom Agent Burgmeier turned over the suspect and again entered the burning house. He courageously reentered the house many times in the attempt to rescue the individuals believed to be inside, until he was so overcome by smoke that he had to be taken to the hospital and treated for smoke inhalation. One of the persons inside the house managed to escape while the other was overcome and died in the blaze. Agent Burgmeier’s valiant efforts resulted in the arrest of an arson/murder suspect and displayed courage beyond that expected in normal line of duty. Line of Duty Death anniversary/ Newton-Azrak Award action anniversary Jefferson L. Barr (1962-1996) Senior Patrol Agent Del Rio Sector Posthumously Awarded Jefferson L. Barr, born on November 16, 1962, joined the Border Patrol on January 19, 1988, dedicating his career to protecting the borders as a Senior Patrol Agent in the Del Rio Sector. His end of watch came on the same date, January 19, but in 1996, marking a tragic end to a dedicated career. On the evening of January 19, 1996, agents from the Eagle Pass Station in the Del Rio Sector had earlier seized 246 pounds of marijuana at the Rio Grande River around 8:30 p.m. Four individuals managed to evade capture by swimming back across the river to Mexico. Later that night, at approximately 10:30 p.m., Senior Patrol Agent Jefferson L. Barr and his partner, Border Patrol Agent Ned Thomas, responded to electronic sensor activity in the same vicinity, about 2 ½ miles downriver from the Eagle Pass Port-of-Entry. They positioned themselves on a trail leading away from the sensor activations, anticipating possible alien foot traffic. Their vigilance paid off when they encountered four individuals carrying bundles of suspected narcotics. Upon being challenged by Agents Barr and Thomas, the subjects dropped their loads. Three of them attempted to flee toward the river, with Agent Thomas engaging one of them. Meanwhile, the fourth subject opened fire on Agent Barr with a .22 caliber revolver, discharging all eight rounds. Tragically, one of these rounds struck Agent Barr in the left shoulder area, inflicting a fatal wound. Despite his mortal injury, Agent Barr managed to return fire, discharging all six rounds from his .357 magnum Service revolver. He succeeded in striking the assailant once. The bullet hit the suspect's left wrist, destroying his wristwatch, and then penetrated his abdominal cavity. Injured but mobile, the suspect managed to reach the river and cross back into Mexico. He was later found suffering from his wounds, received medical treatment, and was taken into custody by Mexican authorities. Another 201 pounds of marijuana were seized during this incident, underscoring the dangers and challenges faced by Border Patrol agents in their efforts to secure the nation's borders. Agent Jefferson L. Barr's service and sacrifice are remembered and honored, his commitment to his duty leaving an indelible mark on the Border Patrol and those who served with him. His gravesite remains a testament to his bravery and dedication to the nation. Line of Duty Death anniversary/ Newton-Azrak Award action anniversary Luis A. Aguilar - photo (1976-2008) Senior Patrol Agent Yuma Sector Posthumously Awarded Senior Patrol Agent Luis A. Aguilar, born on November 26, 1976, joined the Border Patrol on July 21, 2002. His commitment to protecting the nation's borders was evident throughout his service, culminating in a heroic act that cost him his life but saved that of a fellow agent. His end of watch was January 19, 2008. On that fateful day, while performing anti-smuggling duties in the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreational Area as part of the Yuma Station IMPACT Team, Agent Aguilar and his colleague, Agent German Burgoin, were coordinating efforts to apprehend two vehicles suspected of carrying marijuana. These vehicles had illegally crossed from Mexico into the U.S. As the agents were deploying a Controlled Tire Deflation Device (CTDD) to stop one of the vehicles, the driver, later identified as Jesus Navarro-Montes, accelerated and drove directly towards them. In a selfless act, Agent Aguilar yelled for Agent Burgoin to get to safety. While Agent Burgoin managed to climb a highway fence and escape, Agent Aguilar was tragically struck by the vehicle as he attempted to reach a safe location behind some barriers. The impact resulted in severe injuries to Agent Aguilar, who was pronounced dead about 20 minutes later. The driver of the vehicle, Jesus Navarro-Montes, was later convicted and sentenced to life in prison for this heinous act. Agent Aguilar's bravery and quick thinking in the face of imminent danger saved the life of Agent Burgoin. He made the ultimate sacrifice, demonstrating selfless courage and dedication to his duty. His loss is a profound reminder of the risks faced by those who serve to protect the borders. Agent Luis A. Aguilar's service and sacrifice are deeply honored and remembered. His gravesite stands as a testament to his bravery and commitment to his country. January 20 The inauguration of Richard Nixon on January 20, 1969, saw the first large contingent of Patrol Inspectors deployed to provide security for a presidential inauguration, a trend that would be repeated every four years up to the present.
On January 20, 1989, ten members of the U.S. Border Patrol Horse Patrol from the Laredo and McAllen Sectors and their horses would make history and begin a trend for the future by participating in the Presidential Inaugural Parade in Washington, DC, for the inauguration of President George H. Bush. Of interest, the USBP Horse Patrol members held the flags of Texas, the INS, and four U.S. Border Patrol flags as they paraded down Pennsylvania Avenue and in front of the reviewing stand as they were saluted by President Bush.
Line of Duty Death anniversary Rene B. Garza Date of Birth: February 11, 1947 Entered on Duty: March 30, 1975 Title: Senior Patrol Agent End of Watch: January 20, 1999 Details: On January 20, 1999, Senior Patrol Agent Rene B. Garza was conducting surveillance on horseback in Skeleton Canyon, located in the “bootheel” of New Mexico, about 75 miles southwest of Lordsburg. He suffered cardiac arrest and was pronounced dead. According to other Border Patrol Agents, the severity of the illness and the geographical isolation were contributing factors in Agent Garza’s death. Agent Garza was born in south Texas and was a graduate of the Border Patrol’s 107th Academy Class. He had spent his entire Border Patrol career at the Lordsburg Station. Gravesite January 21 On January 21, 1929, the Second Supplement to General Order 4 was issued. It essentially directed that district heads should not meet or accompany supervisors on inspection trips unless specifically requested. This is interesting for a few reasons:
This January 21, 1932 document lists the immigration stations in the Montreal District covering modern day, Houlton, Swanton and Buffalo Sectors. It gives an interesting look at the simple rental spaces that were used as sub-district headquarters. January 22 Today marks a quiet day in USBP history. January 23 Today marks a quiet day in USBP history. January 24 ...the first second-generation female agent to graduate from the U.S. Border Patrol Academy. On January 24, 1997, Jennifer A. Parra of Session 320 had her Border Patrol Agent badge pinned on by her mother, Senior Patrol Agent Hercilia Lopez, of the Fabens Station in El Paso Sector and a member of Session 178, who graduated in August 1985. SPA Lopez had the following to say about the significance of the event, “this shows that women are here to stay. This is a big thing for all women. We’re making our mark, and this second generation is a big step. The family connection did not stop there, as Hercilia Lopez’ husband and Jennifer Parra’s stepfather, Marco Antonio Lopez, is also a Border Patrol Agent at the Ysleta Station.
January 25 Line of Duty Death anniversary Aurelio E. Valencia Date of Birth: November 12, 1963 Entered on Duty: February 28, 1985 Title: Border Patrol Agent End of Watch: January 25, 1996 Details: On January 25, 1996, Border Patrol Agent Aurelio E. Valencia was involved in a vehicle accident on California State Route 78, near Glamis, California. Permanently assigned to the Blythe Station, Agent Valencia was working backup for the Highway 78 checkpoint. As he attempted a U-turn to get behind and investigate a suspected smuggling vehicle parked south of the checkpoint, his Service vehicle was struck broadside by a southbound motorist. Agent Valencia died at the scene from injuries sustained in the accident. Agent Valencia began his career with INS as a student aide at Tucson Sector Headquarters. He was promoted to Clerk two months later. After a short break in service, he entered on duty as an Immigration Detention Officer at Wilcox Station, Tucson Sector, on November 26, 1986. On June 13, 1988, he entered on duty as a Border Patrol Agent at Blythe Station, Yuma Sector, the position he was filling at the time of his death. Gravesite January 12 - January 18Welcome to another This Week in USBP History! This week highlights pivotal moments that shaped the organization’s legacy. On January 13, 1930, El Paso District Director Grover Cleveland Wilmoth emphasized the importance of officer training, leading to the establishment of the El Paso District training school and influencing the creation of the National Border Patrol Academy. January 14, 2002, saw the deployment of 100 agents to the Northern Border as part of Operation Northern Vigilance, strengthening national security. We honor Patrol Inspector William L. Sills, who made the ultimate sacrifice on January 17, 1940, and Border Patrol Agent Eloy Hernandez, who tragically lost his life in 2002. Additionally, we recognize Supervisory Criminal Investigator Gary M. Renick’s outstanding service, earning him the Newton-Azrak Award in 1983. This week also marks milestones in uniform standards, border infrastructure, and the foundation of the U.S. Border Patrol Museum, reflecting the organization’s ongoing commitment to honor, vigilance, and service. Enjoy and have a great week! Cliff P.S. - As an open and continuous invitation to current and former USBP employees, I am always accepting photos to post in the USBP Photo Galleries and in the Upholding Honor First pages. I sure would appreciate you visiting those pages and sending me anything that you think I could post (just send them to [email protected]). As always, make sure to explore all of the hyperlinks to the documents and pages. Finally, please forward this blog to whomever you think may enjoy it. THIS WEEK'S USBP ANNIVERSARIES AND MILESTONESJanuary 12
Today marks a quiet day in USBP history. January 13 On January 13, 1930, El Paso District Director Grover Cleveland Wilmoth (1884-1951) wrote a memo to the Commissioner-General concerning training the employees in his district which covers modern-day Tucson, El Paso and Big Bend Sectors. The memo concentrated on Spanish instruction but also mentioned a law manual which could be carried by officers. This memo demonstrates the importance in training that the El Paso District placed on training. Within 5 years, the El Paso District would create a training school at Camp Chigas (click on the link to see its location), the location of the El Paso Sub-district HQ and the El Paso Station.
January 14 On January 14, 2002, “As part of Operation Northern Vigilance, U.S. Border Patrol deployed 100 agents to all 8 Northern Border Sectors to increase detection, deterrence, and prevention efforts between land border ports-of-entry.”
January 15 On January 15, 1908 an announcement for a Guard with the Immigration Service was issued. Those guards shouldn’t be confused with the Mounted Guards. The position of Guard would be long serving with the Immigration Service and the Immigration and Naturalization Service. On January 15, 1929, Assistant Commissioner-General (Deputy Commissioner today) and former “Chief” of the Border Patrol George Harris (1876-1941) , wrote a memo to all border district heads concerning uniform wear for employees who were both Border Patrol Inspectors and mechanics. It is interesting to see the addressees separated by title, Commissioners of Immigration and District Directors. It should be noted that the concept of an employee possessing the dual appointment of Patrol Inspector and mechanic had occurred as early as 1925, even in acting compacities in 1928. January 16 Today marks a quiet day in USBP history. January 17 This January 17, 1930 document clearly shows the total manpower, location and hierarchy of the Border Patrol. 32 sub-districts (sectors) with 875 employees of all titles (not just inspectors.) Line of Duty Death anniversary William L. Sills Date of Birth: August 21, 1909 Entered on Duty: May 16, 1936 Title: Patrol Inspector End of Watch: January 17, 1940 Details: Patrol Inspector William L. Sills was killed on January 17, 1940, while on night patrol duty at a crossing on the Rio Grande River in the vicinity of La Grulla, Texas. On the date mentioned, three Patrol Inspectors, William L. Sills, Albin Ulrickson (1914-1987), and Leslie H. Buchanan (1911-1999), encountered three smugglers transporting contraband. Two of them were taken into custody, and Patrol Inspector Sills, in attempting to cut off the escape of the third smuggler, was shot at close range and fatally wounded. Before falling, Inspector Sills returned the smuggler's fire and killed him. The smuggler, a Mexican alien, had previously been deported from the United States. Patrol Inspector Sills died in an ambulance enroute to the hospital at McAllen, Texas, where he was stationed. The two smugglers who were apprehended were arraigned on smuggling charges and for complicity in the killing. Gravesite Newton-Azrak Award action anniversary Gary M. Renick - memo Supervisory Criminal Investigator San Antonio, Texas Gary M. Renick was recognized for his outstanding dedication and exceptional performance as a Criminal Investigator in Chicago, Illinois. His expertise in conducting smuggling investigations and coordinating with other law enforcement agencies led to numerous convictions of smugglers, counterfeit document vendors, and narcotics violators. Renick's development of a confidential informant and collection of crucial evidence were instrumental in assisting the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in seizing five kilos of heroin and arresting a three-time convicted alien smuggler. This individual had an extensive immigration record and was actively involved in smuggling aliens and narcotics. The seizure marked the largest DEA narcotics bust in Chicago in over two years. In another significant case, Renick uncovered widespread corruption within State of Illinois driver's license facilities. The case received extensive media coverage and was one of the most sensitive and complex handled by the Chicago office. On January 17, 1983, Renick was notified that he would receive the Newton-Azrak Award in recognition of his exceptional skills and dedication to duty, exemplifying the highest traditions of the Immigration and Naturalization Service. A 75th Anniversary Planning Committee was formed on January 17, 1999, and began working on the largest national observance in the history of the INS. The San Diego Convention Center was selected for the anniversary ball and the 75th Anniversary Planning Committee, in cooperation with the U.S. Border Patrol Museum, developed exhibits recognizing significant events in Border Patrol history and honoring the employees who made this agency successful.
Line of Duty Death anniversary Eloy Hernandez Date of Birth: June 14, 1972 Entered on Duty: March 9, 1998 Title: Border Patrol Agent End of Watch: January 17, 2002 Details: On Thursday, January 17, 2002, at 12:08 a.m., Border Patrol Agent Eloy Hernandez was killed in an automobile accident while on patrol near Progesso, Texas. He was rounding a curve on a gravel road when his vehicle rolled over twice. A fellow Border Patrol Agent located the wreck. Agent Hernandez was airlifted to Valley Baptist Medical Center, Harlingen, Texas, where he was pronounced dead. Agent Hernandez was a native of Mercedes, Texas. He was a graduate of the 367th session of the Border Patrol Academy at Glynco, Georgia, and was assigned to the Weslaco Station at the time of his death. Gravesite January 18 On January 18, 1939, the Central Office (HQ) issued a memo to the field to inventory all badges and cap insignia for all positions. All of the field responses have been collected from the National Archive giving the most complete list of badges and cap insignia available for that time. On January 18, 1956, a memo was addressed to Chief of the Border Patrol Harlon Carter (1913-1991) outlining the border fencing projects that were being planned. There were projects in all four southern border states.
On January 18, 1993, the U.S. Border Patrol Museum Board of Trustees including Don Coppock, Roger Brandemuehl and Henry McCormack signed a contract with Westar Group for the construction of the 10,000 square foot facility. A groundbreaking ceremony was held shortly afterwards.
January 5 - January 11Welcome to another This Week in USBP History! This week offers a fascinating glimpse into the organization’s evolution and stories of heroism. From early intelligence operations and uniform recommendations to acts of bravery and tragic line-of-duty deaths, these events illuminate the Patrol’s storied past. We reflect on the establishment of the earliest intelligence divisions, Agent John Marquissee’s courageous life-saving rescue, and the legacies of fallen agents William McCalib and Jose Nava. Milestones like Carol Anne Fetty’s historic promotion as the first female Supervisory Border Patrol Agent underscore the progress within the Patrol, while operational insights from initiatives like Operation Rio Grande highlight its commitment to border security. Join us as we honor the individuals and events that shaped the U.S. Border Patrol’s enduring mission. Enjoy and have a great week! Cliff P.S. - As an open and continuous invitation to current and former USBP employees, I am always accepting photos to post in the USBP Photo Galleries and in the Upholding Honor First pages. I sure would appreciate you visiting those pages and sending me anything that you think I could post (just send them to [email protected]). As always, make sure to explore all of the hyperlinks to the documents and pages. Finally, please forward this blog to whomever you think may enjoy it. THIS WEEK'S USBP ANNIVERSARIES AND MILESTONESJanuary 5
On January 5, 1926, George T. Montague, the PIIC of the Detroit Intelligence Division submitted an activity report to District Director Prentis. This is the earliest Border Patrol intel unit of which I am aware.
On January 5, 1927, Supervisor of the Border Patrol George Harris wrote to the Commissioner-General his recommendations for Border Patrol uniform fabric.
On January 5, 1932, GO61 was superseded with two other General Orders which created two Border Districts, and the position of Supervisor of the Border Patrol was changed to Director, Border Patrol. The two-border district approach was very short lived, beginning in 1932 and ending in 1933 when the General Orders below were superseded with General Order 203 which reinstated GO61 effective June 1, 1933.
Newton-Azrak Award action anniversary John P. Marquissee - photo, award set, certificate Border Patrol Agent Westmore, VT On January 5, 2012 at approximately 4:00 PM, off-duty Border Patrol Agent John Marquissee saw a vehicle accident in which a car was overturned and partially submerged in Lake Willoughby near Westmore, VT. Knowing a person was in dire need of help, Agent Marquissee, beyond the call of duty while facing grave danger, entered the partially frozen lake. Once at the vehicle, Agent Marquissee saw that a female victim was trapped in the car. Agent Marquissee then broke out the rear window of the car and helped the victim escape the vehicle. Agent Marquissee took the victim to shore saving her life. Agent Marquissee’s actions brought great credit upon himself and the United States Border Patrol. January 6 On January 6, 1934, William P. Blocker (1893-1947), the American Consul in Ciudad Juarez, wrote, "Since January 16, 1920, according to Border Patrol records, fifty smugglers have been killed in the El Paso vicinity, and nineteen immigration and customs officers have met death at the hands of the smugglers. Besides these figures of actual deaths, a number of persons have been wounded on both sides of the river."
Planning for Operation Rio Grande began around the same time as Operation Gatekeeper was first making a difference in San Diego. On January 6, 1995, Attorney General Janet Reno announced that Texas would see unprecedented increases in border enforcement personnel and equipment. She committed to adding 300 Border Patrol Agents to the Sectors along the Rio Grande, with McAllen Sector receiving 75 new Agents.
January 7 On January 7, 1927, the Commissioner of Immigration of District #1, the Montreal District, Harry R. Landis (1880-1950), wrote a request to the Commissioner-General to rent approximately 20 horses from the U.S. Army so that Border Patrol Inspectors could use them to patrol the border in the winter months.
Line of Duty Death anniversary William D. McCalib Date of Birth: December 20, 1895 Entered on Duty: December 4, 1928 Title: Patrol Inspector End of Watch: January 7, 1930 Details: On January 7, 1930, Patrol Inspector McCalib, together with Senior Patrol Inspector West, apprehended Pedro Rendon, at Alice, Texas. Rendon was suspected of being an alien unlawfully in the United States. Rendon claimed that the proprietor of a restaurant in Alice could vouch for him and, accordingly, the officers put Rendon in the back seat of the car and drove to the restaurant. Senior Patrol Inspector West entered the establishment to interview the proprietor while Inspector McCalib remained in the car with Rendon. During West's absence, Rendon drew a pistol and shot McCalib in the back of the head, killing him instantly. Rendon was subdued and taken into custody by Senior Patrol Inspector West. It was later discovered that Rendon, alias Jose Ramirez, was an escaped convict. Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $69.75 per month for her and their child. Upon the death of his wife, his child received $38.75 per month. Gravesite Line of Duty Death anniversary Jose A. Nava Date of Birth: July 6, 1958 Entered on Duty: January 27, 1987 Title: Border Patrol Agent End of Watch: January 7, 1995 Details: On January 6, 1995, Agent Jose A. Nava was on his way to conduct a train check. He was traveling on Farm Road 1572, 45 miles east of Del Rio, Texas. His Service vehicle struck a deer causing him to lose control. The vehicle overturned several times and Agent Nava was thrown from the vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene at 12:40 a.m. on January 7, 1995. Jose Nava was born in Brownsville, Texas. He began his career with the Border Patrol in El Paso, Texas. On April 9, 1989, he transferred to the Del Rio Sector and was assigned to the Brackettville Station. Gravesite January 8 January 8, 1984 - First Female Supervisory Border Patrol Agent (SBPA)
January 9 On January 9, 1941, most likely in anticipation of changing from Department of Labor to Department of Justice badges, Assistant to the Attorney General Lemuel B. Schofield (1882-1955) issued a memo stating that if the, “…loss of a badge or credentials occurred through carelessness or negligence, the Central Office will take such disciplinary action as the circumstances surrounding the loss may seem to warrant, but in no instance will the penalty be less than suspension from duty and pay for a period of two days…” Plus, the officer would be required to pay for the lost items.
January 10 On January 10, 1931, in El Paso, Texas, Senior Patrol Inspector Ammon Meshach Tenney III (1897-1961) and Patrol Inspector Charles Askins, Jr. (1907-1999) engaged in a gunfight with smugglers where approximately 12 rounds were fired and no injuries reported. See this file for the cover memo and sworn statements describing the incident. January 11 See the January 11, 1943 documents in this file to see the Organizational Chart and map of all the District 13 employees and work locations. District 13 was the St. Paul District and primarily included the modern-day Grand Forks Sector. In the early 1950’s, there was a significant initiative to construct fencing on the border with Mexico. This document from January 11, 1954, shows the specifications of one of the proposals. |
Clifford GillBlog author, retired U.S. Border Patrol Assistant Chief and, current U.S. Border Patrol employee advocate. Ray HarrisSite founder and owner, former Supervisory Border Patrol Agent and retired Immigration Special Agent. Joseph BancoU.S. Border Patrol historian and retired Deputy Chief Patrol Agent. Archives
February 2025
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