Presented here is a captivating snapshot from the 1930s, courtesy of the Border Patrol Museum. On the left, we see Border Patrol Mechanic Paul Browles (1892-?), casually smoking a pipe in his coveralls, a common sight in those times. To the right stands Patrol Inspector George Scales (1899-1976), equipped with what seems to be a paint gun. They are pictured in a basic garage setting, diligently working on a patrol vehicle. This photo not only reflects the accepted practice of Patrol Inspectors like Scales serving as mechanics but also underscores the vital role of the Patrol's support staff since the inception of the Border Patrol. Their adaptability and commitment are a testament to the foundational strength of the organization.

Introduction:
As the United States Border Patrol celebrates its centennial, we are reminded of our enduring legacy and the values that have guided us through a century of service. This year, our commitment to the motto "Honor First" takes on added significance in light of recent events involving two key leadership positions: the Chief Patrol Agent of the Academy and the Acting Deputy Chief of the Border Patrol. While the specific outcomes of these cases remain undisclosed, their removal from positions underscores the importance of our core values. Drawing insights from "This Week in USBP History, Vol. 53," "Vol. 114," and the "Honor First and ​Esprit De Corps" page, we explore how to fortify the ethos that defines us in our centennial year and beyond.

The Essence of "Honor First":
"Honor First," originating in 1926 in the El Paso District, has been the guiding principle of our organization. As we mark a hundred years of service, this principle remains the cornerstone of our identity, symbolizing integrity, honesty, and ethical conduct.

Esprit De Corps – Our Collective Spirit:
​In this centennial year, the concept of Esprit de Corps resonates more profoundly. It's the harmonious blend of organizational pride and employee morale, born from a shared history, tradition, and culture. "Honor First" is foundational to this spirit, binding us across generations.

Leadership's Pivotal Role:
The recent removal of the Chief Patrol Agent of the Academy and the Acting Deputy Chief of the Border Patrol brings to light the critical role of leadership in upholding and exemplifying "Honor First." Their cases, while not publicly detailed, remind us that our leaders must not only enforce but exemplify our core values. In the words of Chief Jason Owens, "These past weeks and months have seen some difficult times for our Green Family. On a personal level, I never lose faith simply because no matter how difficult or trying the circumstances, when I look to my left and right, I see you. Active or retired, uniformed or support, rank and file or management, I am thankful for each and every one of you." This sentiment underscores the unity and resilience that define us, especially in challenging times.

A Path Forward:

1. Embracing Our Centennial Heritage: As we celebrate our 100th year, we draw strength from our rich history and the principles that have guided us.
2. Living "Honor First" in Our Second Century: We step into our next century with a renewed commitment to our guiding principle, ensuring it remains at the heart of all we do.
3. Cultivating Accountability and Transparency: Upholding the highest standards of integrity and transparency is essential, now more than ever.
4. Deepening Our Dialogue: Education, open forums, and honest conversations will help us navigate future challenges while staying true to our values.
5. Community Engagement: Our centennial year is an opportunity to showcase our unwavering dedication to service and reinforce our role as guardians of our nation's borders.

Conclusion:
In this centennial year, we stand united and resilient. It's a time to celebrate our past, confront our present challenges, and forge a future that honors our legacy. Inspired by Chief Owens' words, let's embrace this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to "Honor First," and continue serving our nation with integrity and excellence.

Call to Action:
Join us in this centennial reflection. Share your stories and insights. How can we carry the torch of "Honor First" into our next century? Your contributions are vital to our ongoing journey. Together, we will continue to uphold our proud legacy and serve with honor and distinction.

This week in USBP history, we start on February 23, 1904, with a pivotal moment as Jeff Milton is recommended for the role of Chinese Inspector, marking an early highlight in his federal career. Moving to February 20, 1928, we revisit a significant incident near Fabens, Texas, where Border Patrol Inspector Henry Busch adeptly handled a complex situation involving a liquor seizure. We also reflect on February 21, 1956, a day notable for the numerous individuals serving in acting leadership roles within the Border Patrol, including Harlon Carter, William P. Jaeger, and Einar Wahl. The week concludes with the introduction of H.R. 1030 on February 23, 1993, a legislative proposal that sought to reshape the Border Patrol. Join us as we explore these events and much more, tracing the evolving journey of the United States Border Patrol.

This week, we proudly recognize three recipients of the Newton-Azrak Award, commemorating the anniversaries of their courageous and heroic actions.

Also, we remember Border Patrol Agent John R. McCravey on the anniversary of his death.

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.

February 18​

• Newton-Azrak Award action anniversary – Senior Patrol Agent Michael Deshaies, February 18, 1993.
• Newton-Azrak Award action anniversary – Border Patrol Agent Carlos A. Lara, February 18, 2019.

 
February 19 - No entries
 
February 20

• A significant incident, which could have led to what would be referred to today as a “blue on green” occurred on February 20, 1928, near Fabens, Texas. Border Patrol Inspector Henry Busch, assisted by Deputy Sheriff Sam Hayes, had seized a Buick coupe containing 342 pints of whiskey. They were processing the seizure when approached by Mounted Customs Inspectors Tom Morris and Rogers. Mounted Customs Inspector Morris “took charge” of the automobile and liquor and demanded Border Patrol Inspector Busch show in his report that he and Rogers assisted in the seizure. “Fearing a gunfight” with the Mounted Customs Inspectors, Border Patrol Inspector Busch turned over the seizure and falsified his report.
  • ​From - HONOR FIRST:  The Story of the United States Border Patrol - Volume I by Joseph Banco
• Line of Duty Death anniversary – Border Patrol Agent John R. McCravey, February 23, 1987.
• Newton-Azrak Award action anniversary – Senior Patrol Agent Jesse Collins, February 20, 1992.

 
February 21

• Reflecting on my time before retirement, I recall numerous individuals serving in acting leadership roles. Every person mentioned in this document from February 21, 1956, is in an acting role:
  • Harlon Carter (1913-1991​), Acting Assistant Commissioner, Enforcement Division
  • William P. Jaeger (1911-1974), Acting Regional Chief of Border Patrol
  • Einar Wahl (1918-2004), Acting Chief of Border Patrol
  • Acting Chief Patrol Inspector…

 
February 22 - No entries
 
February 23

• On February 23, 1904, a law office wrote a letter of recommendation to the Secretary of Commerce and Labor for Jeff Milton (1861-1947) to be a Chinese Inspector.  A few things of note:
  • As per the documents (see page 5) that support Milton’s federal retirement, his federal career was in the following positions:
    • Mounted Inspector – 1887-1889
    • Chinese Inspector – 1904-1913
    • Immigrant Inspector – 1913-1932
  • The letter of recommendation is the oldest document that I collected from the National Archives.
• As per these documents, on February 23, 1930, Senior Patrol Inspector (SPI) Irvin H. Cone (1902-1977) shot and killed Pedro Rodriguez in El Paso, TX.  The encounter began with Rodriguez striking SPI Cone with a pistol leaving a deep cut on Cone’s face.  There are several interesting passages in the document:
  • An early mention of “…the Narcotic Weed known along the border as “Marihuana”…”
  • Describing Rodriguez as a “bad hombre” in an official document
  • Mentioning that SPI Cone used his personal, reliable S&W revolver “… in contra distinction to a great many of the Colt revolvers which are at present furnished this Service by the War Department.”
  • The cover memo ends with a recommendation – “This office has heretofore recommend that such Colt revolvers be replaced with .45 caliber automatic pistols…”
• This memo, written February 23, 1932, from the Jacksonville District to the Commissioner-General, describes how the district’s Border Patrol shooting team took 1st place in a state-wide law enforcement competition.
  • The story of the beginnings of the USBP national pistol team can be found on the Honor First USBP History page.
• There was even a bill put forward to separate the U.S. Border Patrol from the INS and to make it a separate agency under the Department of Justice. H.R. 1030 introduced in the House of Representatives on February 23, 1993, by Congressman Antony Beilenson (D-CA), was forwarded to the Judiciary Committee, where it died due to opposition from the INS and several members of the DOJ who had the ear of members of the Committee.​
  • From - HONOR FIRST: The Story of the United States Border Patrol - Volume Three 1975-1999​ by Joseph Banco

 
February 24 - No entries

1992

Jesse Collins  
Senior Patrol Agent
Marfa Sector
On February 20, 1992, Senior Patrol Agent Jesse Collins voluntarily risked his own life and exhibited extraordinary courage rescuing a 15-year-old girl.  The girl was speeding in a car when she lost control and the car plunged into a small, deep lake, with a water temperature of 35 degrees.  When Agent Collins arrived, one Texas Department of Public Safety officer who had entered the water was struggling and having difficulty staying afloat.  Agent Collins went into the lake and assisted the DPS officer to shore.  He then went back into the lake and rescued the young girl from the sinking vehicle.  In frigid waters, Agent Collins moved behind the helpless girl and pushed her toward the bank.  After a number of pushes, each one resulting in Agent Collins going under water, they neared shallow water and a Texas police officer helped bring the girl out of the water.


1993

Michael Deshaies - photo, photo 2, Commissioner's memo, CPA memo, Commissioner's Award List, Newton-Azrak Award List, articles
Senior Patrol Agent
New Orleans Sector
Senior Patrol Agent Michael Deshaies was recognized for his efforts in saving a person from drowning near Pensacola, Florida during a unusual cold spell.  On February 18, 1993, Agent Deshaies encountered several people believed to be illegally present in the United States at a construction worksite.  As Agent Deshaies approached, several of the suspected illegal aliens fled.  Although the air temperature was approximately 18 degrees Fahrenheit,  three of the men jumped into a 100' wide canal in an attempt to escape.  Two of the fleeing suspects made it to the other side.  However, the third man struggled to stay afloat in the cold, muddy water.  When the third person disappeared under the water, in an act of unparalleled bravery and heroism, Agent Deshaies exhibited total disregard for his personal safety and dove into the frigid water.  Agent Deshaies was able to find the unconscious man under the water and pull him safely to shore.  The victim, a fleeing illegal alien, survived solely due to the actions of Agent Deshaies.


2019

Carlos A. Lara - photo
Border Patrol Agent
El Centro, CA
On February 18, 2019, Border Patrol Agent Carlos Lara was assigned to the Calexico Station’s area of responsibility when, beyond the call of duty and facing grave danger he entered the All-American Canal to rescue a man in distress. Before entering the water, several attempts to assist the drowning man were made using a rescue disc. Once it was determined that the rescue disc was ineffective, Agent Lara disregarded the danger of the swift current and entered the frigid and treacherous water. Agent Lara swam to the victim, took control of him and pulled him back to the canal bank and to safety. Agent Lara’s quick and selfless response at the risk of his own life prevented the loss of another life. Agent Lara’s actions brought great credit upon himself and United States Border Patrol.

1987

John R. McCravey
Date of Birth:                     September 10, 1950
Entered on Duty:               September 9, 1985
Title:                                    Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch:                    February 23, 1987
 
Details:
On February 20, 1987, Agent John R. McCravey was sign cutting near Highway 98, east of Calexico, California. He joined a vehicle pursuit that involved an automobile suspected of transporting a group of smuggled aliens. The driver of the fleeing vehicle turned south on a dirt road leading back to the All American Canal, which serves as a boundary between Mexico and the United States. The billowing dust cloud made by the fleeing vehicle prevented Agent McCravey from clearly seeing the road. The reduced visibility may have contributed by diminishing his perception and reaction time, which affected his ability to react to a change in roadway grade and a turn in the road. Agent McCravey lost control of his vehicle, which overturned and rolled into the All American Canal, where it became submerged upside down.
 
Fellow officers and farm workers successfully removed Agent McCravey and the three illegal aliens he had arrested prior to getting involved in the pursuit from the vehicle. He died three days later in a San Diego, California hospital.

Gravesite

As I prepare for another week of sharing the rich history of the U.S. Border Patrol, I'd like to update you on some changes to our "This Week in USBP History" blog. Your support has been invaluable as we've journeyed together through the remarkable stories and significant milestones of the Patrol.

In an effort to make the blog more manageable while still delivering meaningful content, I'm streamlining our focus. We'll continue to highlight key historical events and anniversaries that have significantly shaped the U.S. Border Patrol. These stories are more than historical markers; they represent our shared heritage, our challenges, and our collective triumphs.

I want to note a specific change regarding our coverage of the Newton-Azrak Award recipients and our honored fallen. While I will still feature the full stories of those having an anniversary during the week, the format will be more concise. The detailed explorations and additional background sections that were previously a staple of the blog will be simplified. However, the essence and respect we hold for these heroes remain steadfast.

While the blog's format is evolving, its core purpose – to honor, inform, and remember – remains unchanged. I may occasionally include thought pieces or perspectives on current issues, but these will be in addition to our primary historical focus.

Your feedback and engagement are as important as ever. Whether it's a word of encouragement or a suggestion, I welcome your thoughts. It's your involvement that transforms this blog from a collection of historical accounts into a living tribute to our Border Patrol community.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Let's continue to honor our past, stay connected with our present, and look forward to our future with anticipation.

Stay safe, and let's keep the spirit of the Patrol alive.

This week in USBP history, we spotlight key moments starting with February 11, 1928, when Chief Ruel Davenport conducted a comprehensive tour of the Buffalo District, leaving behind a detailed report of his observations. Moving to February 12, 1926, we uncover Chief Supervisor Irving F. Wixon's critical insights on the Port of Calexico, a precursor to his eventual role as Deputy Commissioner of the INS. The week also includes a significant moment on February 13, 1951, marking the authorization of Army sun tan uniforms for the El Paso District, signaling a notable transition in uniform policy. Our historical journey concludes with the 1980 Winter Olympic Games, where the Border Patrol played a crucial role, starting from February 12, 1980, in Lake Placid, NY. Join us as we delve into these events and much more, tracing the evolving journey of the United States Border Patrol.

This week, we proudly recognize three recipients of the Newton-Azrak Award, commemorating the anniversaries of their courageous and heroic actions.

There are no line-of-duty death anniversaries this week.

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 rare snapshot from the early 1930s, provided by the Border Patrol Museum, captures a defining moment in U.S. Border Patrol history. It features an early transport vehicle, crucial for detainee movement during that era. The vehicle stands as a testament to the evolving needs and methods of the Patrol, equipped with a rudimentary detention area in the rear, secured by a simple barrier. Its canvas roof and open cab are telling of the challenges faced by Patrol Inspectors back then, where their only respite from harsh weather conditions was the breeze generated as the vehicle moved. This historical image not only reflects the operational requirements of the Patrol in its early years but also underscores the significant advancements in transportation and detainee management that have been achieved over the decades.

In this section, we honor the recipients of the Newton-Azrak Award, the U.S. Border Patrol's highest recognition since 1973. Named in memory of Inspectors Theodore L. Newton Jr. and George F. Azrak, who bravely gave their lives in the line of duty, this award has stood as a symbol of extraordinary valor and commitment. While the criteria for this prestigious award have evolved over the years, its significance remains unchanged. It continues to honor those who demonstrate exceptional courage and heroism, upholding the legacy of Inspectors Newton and Azrak and the enduring values of the Border Patrol.

2005

Gregory M. Stecher - ​photo
Border Patrol Agent
Swanton, VT 
In the morning hours of February 11, 2005, Agent Stecher responded to a call to support a Coast Guard rescue mission involving a partially submerged vehicle on the thin ice of Lake Champlain. Two men had become stranded on the snow-covered ice when their vehicle broke through the ice. The USCG Rescue team became exhausted with the onset of hypothermia and requested assistance. Agent Stecher was aware that recent weather conditions were conducive to thin ice and that another rescue snowmobile had already broken through the ice. Beyond the call of duty and facing grave danger, Agent Stecher operated his snowmobile on the thin ice and rescued one of the fishermen while his partner and Vermont Fish and Game units rescued the Coast Guardsmen. While speeding to shore with a victim onboard, Agent Stecher’s snowmobile began to break through the ice. Only by maintaining very high speed was he able to stay afloat and complete the rescue. Agent Stecher’s actions brought great credit upon himself and the United States Border Patrol.
 
George P. Woodward - photo
Border Patrol Agent
Swanton, VT 
In the morning hours of February 11, 2005, Agent Woodward responded to a call to support a Coast Guard rescue mission involving a partially submerged vehicle on the thin ice of Lake Champlain. Two men had become stranded on the snow-covered ice when their vehicle broke through the ice. The USCG Rescue team became exhausted with the onset of hypothermia and requested assistance. Agent Woodward was aware that recent weather conditions were conducive to thin ice and that another rescue snowmobile had already broken through the ice. Beyond the call of duty and facing grave danger, Agent Woodward operated his snowmobile on the thin ice and rescued one of the fishermen while his partner and Vermont Fish and Game units rescued the Coast Guardsmen. While speeding to shore with a victim onboard, Agent Woodward's snowmobile began to break through the ice. Only by maintaining very high speed was he able to stay afloat and complete the rescue. Agent Woodward's actions brought great credit upon himself and the United States Border Patrol.


2022

Joaquin Chavez - photo, award certificate
Border Patrol Agent
Eagle Pass North Station
Eagle Pass, TX
Border Patrol Agent Joaquin Chavez is recognized for heroic actions resulting in the rescue of three Haitian nationals from the Rio Grande River on February 12, 2022.  Understanding the risks and disregarding his personal safety, Agent Chavez entered the Rio Grande River to rescue three subjects, which included an unresponsive adult male who would have otherwise drowned. The swift actions of Agent Chavez, a product of extensive training and experience, prevented a critical situation from resulting in certain fatal consequences. Agent Chavez's actions reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Border Patrol

As of November 14, 2023 the U.S. Border Patrol has suffered 157* fallen.
Titles​:

• 3 Mounted Watchmen fell before 1924 and are carried as Border Patrol fallen
• 50 Border Patrol Inspectors fell between 1924 and 1970
• 103 Border Patrol Agents have fallen since 1970
• 1 Enforcement Analysis Specialist

* See the HonorFirst U.S. Border Patrol Fallen page for more information.

The Essence of "Honor First" in the Border Patrol
In the heart of the U.S. Border Patrol beats a powerful motto: "Honor First." More than a slogan, it's the soul of our ethos, a beacon guiding us in integrity, character, and trustworthiness. This motto, born in 1926, has woven itself into the fabric of our culture, reminding us of the deep responsibility and sacred trust inherent in our duty.

Bridging the Gap: The Evolution of HonorFirst
In the mid-90s, Ray Harris identified a significant gap in information about the USBP's hiring process and responded by creating HonorFirst. This initiative led to the establishment of two distinct forums: an Applicant's Forum and an Agent's Forum. Each served a unique purpose – the Applicant's Forum became a guiding light for those aspiring to join the Patrol, while the Agent's Forum evolved into a vibrant community for current and former agents to share, support, and connect. These forums weren't just platforms for discussion; they became a family room for the Border Patrol, a place where stories, advice, and camaraderie flourished, strengthening the bonds within the community.

Fostering Organizational Pride and Morale through HonorFirst: The Evolution of the Agent's Forum
​The journey of the Agent's Forum on HonorFirst has been one of growth, learning, and adaptation. In its early days, the original forum, vibrant and bustling with activity, faced challenges. Discussions of it +7,000 members, sometimes spiraled into vitriol, a reflection of the intense passions and diverse perspectives within our ranks. This period was a crucial learning curve, underscoring the need for balance between open dialogue and maintaining the respectful, honorable spirit of the Patrol.

In response to the evolving dynamics within our community, Ray made a strategic decision to close the old forum and start anew. This transition to a new forum, now with over 1,300 members and about 25% daily engagement, was more than just a technical update; it was a renewed commitment to fostering a respectful and inclusive environment. In this refreshed space, we continue to welcome a wide range of opinions and lively debates. However, our role as moderators is to ensure that discussions, while robust, are conducted with a sense of responsibility and respect for our members. Our goal is to balance open expression with the well-being and cohesion of our community.

Personal Reflections and Future Outlook: Adapting with Time

Reflecting on over a quarter of a century with HonorFirst, my journey from a young applicant in Laredo to a retired agent deeply involved in this community has been filled with growth, challenges, and fulfillment. HonorFirst has been a constant companion, evolving alongside my own path in the Border Patrol.

​This platform has transformed from a simple website and forum into a comprehensive resource, paralleling the dynamic changes within the Border Patrol and the world of technology and communication. As we look to the future, I'm excited about the potential for further evolution. We're considering enhancements to integrate the forums more seamlessly with the main website, making it easier for our community to connect and access information.  These considerations are driven by a desire to ensure that HonorFirst remains a relevant, valuable resource for the Border Patrol community.

​As I look back on the years spent with HonorFirst, I'm filled with a sense of pride and gratitude. The journey ahead is promising, and I'm committed to ensuring that HonorFirst continues to serve as a beacon of support, information, and community for all those connected to the Border Patrol.

Conclusion and Call to Action: A Collective Journey Forward
​HonorFirst is more than a website; it's a legacy of honor, a living chronicle of our shared journey. I invite you to join us in this ongoing story. Share your experiences, engage in our forums, and be a part of this proud community. Together, let's continue to build on this legacy, fostering a sense of pride and belonging that resonates with every member of the Border Patrol family.

This week in USBP history begins with a notable memo from Assistant Superintendent L. Antonio Bonazzi on February 4, 1929, shedding light on the early days of the Border Patrol in the Montreal District. We then move to February 5, 1918, where future Chief Frank Berkshire offers a detailed summary of the border's status. The week continues with internal dynamics and hierarchy insights from a February 6, 1929 memo by Montreal District Commissioner Harry R. Landis. The week concludes with a historical highlight on February 8, 1962, involving the U.S. Border Patrol's role in the spy exchange of Francis Gary Powers for Rudolph Ivanovich Abel. Join us as we delve into these events and much more, tracing the evolving journey of the United States Border Patrol.

There are no Newton-Azrak Award action anniversaries this week. However, some Newton-Azrak Award recipients do not have a date associated with their actions. Such is the case with Criminal Investigator Lawrence V. Granelli and Investigator James E. Kibble whose action is highlighted this week.

Also, we remember two of the Patrol's fallen on the anniversaries of their deaths.

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.

Step back in time to 1980 with this rare glimpse of the Marfa Checkpoint, captured in its authentic simplicity. Pictured here is the iconic two-tone seafoam green and white Border Patrol bread truck, a classic symbol of early border enforcement. Parked alongside, the traditional Border Patrol sedan stands guard, complete with its distinctive red and blue lights. This temporary checkpoint, set against the vast expanse of the open desert, reflects a simpler era in Border Patrol history. Interestingly, the concept of immigration checkpoints predates the Border Patrol itself, with records of an immigration checkpoint manned by an Immigrant Inspector and Mounted Patrolmen as early as 1922. This photo not only captures a moment in time but also a significant piece of our border enforcement heritage.

February 4

• On February 4, 1929, Assistant Superintendent L. Antonio Bonazzi (1890-1950) of the Montreal District wrote a memo containing several interesting points.
  • The district was HQ’s in Canada.
  • As a reminder, with the passage of General Order 61 in 1926, an Assistant Superintendent was the highest-ranking uniformed position in the Border Patrol. See a page describing the insignia here.
  • The first person rated in the document is Willard F. Kelly (1903-1969) who would be Chief of the Border Patrol 1933-1943.  Kelly would become the first Chief to have first been a Border Patrol Inspector.  Here is his June 21, 1924, Oath of Office. 
  • As a clear demonstration of Immigration Service hierarchy, an employee would be promoted from a Border Patrol Inspector to an Immigrant Inspector.
• Livermore Sector Established - 1952
  • Information from the Border Patrol Museum
• Line of Duty Death anniversary – Senior Patrol Agent Edwin C. Dennis, February 4, 1974.

 
February 5

• This document, written on February 5, 1918, by future Chief and Father of the Border Patrol Frank Berkshire (1870-1934), provides a 10-page summary of the status of the border.  He writes about the main areas from the Gulf of Mexico to California.

 
February 6

• On February 6, 1929, Montreal District Commissioner of Immigration Harry R. Landis (1880-1950) wrote a memo to the Commissioner-General.  The memo has several interesting points:
  • It shows the hierarchy of Border Patrol inspectors being “kicked upstairs” to Immigrant Inspectors.
  • Commissioner Landis expresses disagreement with Assistant Superintendent Antonio Bonazzi, though he does not explicitly mention his name.
    • An Assistant Superintendent was the highest-ranking uniformed position in the Border Patrol (see this link for the early rank insignia/hierarchy).  Each district along the border had one.  Landis was writing about his non-concurrence with his subordinate.

 
February 7

• On February 7, 1955, a Patrol Inspector (rank unknown) Paul Kester "Bing" Crosby (1910-1965) sent Chief of the Border Patrol Harlon Carter (1913-1991​) a comparison of the USBP promotions and resignations.  It compares Jul-Dec 1953 to Jul-Dec 1954.

 
February 8

• On February 8, 1911, an announcement for Mounted Inspector was issued. This position has also been referred to as the Mounted Watchmen and Mounted Guard.
  • The Immigration Patrol, distinct from the aforementioned positions, was abolished on August 18, 1919, as indicated this 1920 document.  Very little information is known about it.
• The U.S. Border Patrol played a role in the 1962 spy exchange between the U.S. and Soviet Union involving U-2 Pilot Francis Gary Powers (1929-1977) and Soviet “super-spy” Rudolph Ivanovich Abel...  The final involvement of the U.S. Border Patrol was “secretly” flying Abel, Deputy Director of Prisons Fred Wilkinson (1907-1981), a U.S. Marshal, and a Bureau of Prisons guard from Atlanta (where Abel was being held in the Federal Penitentiary) to New Jersey on February 8, 1962. Abel was transferred to a military aircraft along with Deputy Director Wilkinson for the final flight to Berlin, West Germany. On the morning of February 10, 1962, James Donovan (1916-1970) walked Rudolph Ivanovich Abel to the center of the Glienicke Bridge crossing the Havel River between Berlin, West Germany, and Potsdam, East Germany, and exchanged the man he had represented for the last five years for Francis Gary Powers.​​
  • From - HONOR FIRST: The Story of the United States Border Patrol - Volume Three 1975-1999​ by Joseph Banco​

 
February 9 - No entries
 
February 10

• Line of Duty Death anniversary – Patrol Inspector Norman G. Ross, February 10, 1928.

Lawrence V. Granelli
​(1946-2022)
Criminal Investigator
New York, New York
James E. Kibble
Investigator
New York, New York 
Criminal Investigator Lawrence V. Granelli and Investigator James E. Kibble were recognized for their unusual courage and competence during the course of an extended under-cover investigation, which led to the arrest of 22 persons, the seizure of $46,000 in bribe monies, and the development of pertinent intelligence concerning other criminal activities in the Chinese community of New York City.  Their achievements involved great personal risk.
(No Date of Action)

1928

Norman G. Ross
Date of Birth:                      May 15, 1901
Entered on Duty:                February 23, 1926
Title:                                     Patrol Inspector
End of Watch:                     February 10, 1928

Details:
Patrol Inspector Norman G. Ross was shot and killed near Kane Springs, California, on the afternoon of February 10, 1928. He had arrested two Mexican aliens and was attempting to convey them to Patrol Headquarters at El Centro. The aliens, in whose car they were being transported, had a revolver concealed in the automobile, which one of the aliens used to kill Inspector Ross. His body was found on the back seat of the aliens' abandoned car. He had been shot through the head.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $67.50 per month for her and one child.

​Gravesite


1974

Edwin C. Dennis
Date of Birth:                    March 3, 1912
Entered on Duty:              April 17, 1941
Title:                                   Senior Patrol Agent
End of Watch:                   February 4, 1974
 
Details:
At 7:10 p.m. on February 4, 1974, Senior Patrol Agent Edwin C. Dennis was in a van driven by Border Patrol Agent Richard Marroguin with one alien in custody. They were enroute from Ysleta to El Paso, Texas, on the border highway. They were traveling without lights when the vehicle struck some rocks that had been left by a construction crew. The vehicle turned over and Dennis was thrown out of the van and it rolled over him, crushing the upper part of his body. The other occupants in the vehicle were shaken up but not seriously injured.

​Gravesite