This Week in USBP History

This Week in USBP History, 03/27-04/02

3/27/2022

Good morning,

Enjoy This Week in USBP History! Make sure explore all of the hyperlinks to documents and pages.

Also, please forward this blog to whomever you think may enjoy it.

Have a great week!

Esprit de Corps
The workplace climate resulting from a combination of organizational pride and employee morale.

Organizational pride is the positive feeling experienced by employees from being part of a meaningful team that is rich in history, tradition and culture.
Employee morale is the feeling experienced by employees based in part on their perception of:
- Being valued by the organization,
- Fairly compensated, and
- Performing meaningful work.

Esprit de corps is reinforced through the shared goals, mission and values of the organization and its employees.

The definition turns Esprit de Corps into a simple formula and defines parts that comprise organizational pride and employee morale.

Esprit de Corps = Organizational Pride + Employee Morale

Esprit de Corps is the key to a healthy organization and engaged employees.

Honor First is foundational to the Border Patrol's organizational pride and integral to its Esprit de Corps.

USBP History

1906

On April 6, 1906, acting Chinese Inspector Park wrote a memo to Jeff Milton’s supervisor, George Webb. Since this memo was discovered in the National Archives, it was evidentially sent to Washington DC as one of the many reports concerning an event in which Milton was involved. Summarizing this instance, Mr. Kidder drew and pointed a cocked revolver at Milton’s face in a restaurant. Milton suggested that they go outside, out of the view of women and children, where Kidder may have the chance to use his revolver. Once outside, Milton told Kidder, that if Kidder put his hand in his pocket, that Milton would kill him. Acting Inspector Park finished the memo by stating, “…owing to Mr. Kidder’s obedience, no one was killed.”

1907

Jeff Milton had a busy 1907 with complaints against him making it to Washington DC. This March 29, 1907 letter, was signed by approximately 19 people who had come to Milton’s defense concerning him accidentally shooting a man in the foot while trying to break up a dog fight.

1926

On March 29, 1926, General Order 63, Authority of Immigration and Border Patrol Officer to Enforce Law Other Than The Immigration Laws, was signed. This general order unquestionably authorized the enforcement of alcohol and narcotic related offenses.
On March 31, 1926, Ruel Davenport authored the earliest known memo signed as the Chief of the Border Patrol. At the time, the position was called “Supervisor, Border Patrol”. Davenport was the Chief for the Northern Border and George Harris was the Chief for the Southern Border.
On April 1, 1926, General Order 61 came into effect as per this memo.
- General Order 61 is a foundational document in Border Patrol history and, perhaps, the single most influential document in Border Patrol history for the following reasons;
  - It contains one of the earliest known descriptions of the functions of the Border Patrol (GO 63 expanded on this)
    - The Border Patrol is an auxiliary branch of the regular Immigration Service. The Patrol is established primarily to prevent and detect the surreptitious entry of aliens into the United States. It will however, aid in the enforcement of all federal laws designed to safeguard our country against the introduction of contraband. The Patrol will, in general, operate along and in the vicinity of the international and maritime borders of the United States.
  - It created the hierarchal naming convention of calling a sub-district (modern-day sector) by both a number, and the city in which it was located. It is believed that this document’s concept was also used for stations and is the genesis for El Paso Station being called “Station One” and Laredo Sector calling all of their stations “Base #” to name two. See the USBP History page, “Why is the El Paso Station called Station One?” section for more information.
    - Each Patrol district will in turn be appropriately divided into subdistricts numbered consecutively, beginning with No. 1 in each district.
  - It created an organizational framework that is recognizable today.
    - Supervisors (Border Patrol) – This is what we call Chief of the Border Patrol today. This was a non-uniformed position.
    - Officers in charge of districts – This was an extra title added on to the 11 heads of districts that had Border Patrol employees. They were not Border Patrol employees but were in their chains of command. Their official titles were either “District Director” or “Commissioner of Immigration”.
    - Assistant Superintendents, who shall be qualified immigrant inspectors – These were the ranking Border Patrol employees in a district. There was only one per district. Remember, a district was comprised of multiple sub-districts, modern-day sectors. They were also the highest-ranking uniformed position in the USBP.
    - Chief Patrol Inspectors, who shall be qualified immigrant inspectors – They led sub-districts and the title is still used today with “Agent” instead of “Inspector”
    - Senior Patrol Inspectors – This was a supervisory position between the Chief Patrol Inspector and Patrol Inspectors. The position had a one sentence position description (below) until this guidance was issued. It is also the launching point of the 10-15 positions that exist between the modern-day Border Patrol Agent and Chief Patrol Agent.
      - Senior Patrol Inspectors will perform such duties as may be assigned to them by the respective Chief Patrol Inspectors under whom they serve.
    - Patrol Inspectors – The heart of the organization
      - Patrol Inspectors will be expected to familiarize themselves with all federal statutes designed to prevent the unlawful entry of aliens and introduction of contraband. Law violators apprehended, together with any contraband seized by patrol inspectors, will be turned over to the appropriate law enforcement agencies, and proper receipt therefore, on Form 644, secured when delivery is made to other than immigration officers. They will be charged with the proper use and care of all Government equipment entrusted to them.
    - Clerks, and Motor Mechanics – USBP support personnel have been there since the beginning.
  - It created reports that both one and two patch agents may recognize
    - The Daily Report – Form 650
    - Receipts for Persons and Contraband – Form 644
      - They evolved to become the I-44 in the 1940’s
    - Weekly Reports – Form 643
    - Monthly Reports

1930

On March 27, 1930, H.R. 11204 was introduced, “Border Patrol Act, 1930”. This bill would have expanded the U.S. Coast Guard by creating a border patrol within it, including enlisted personnel, warrant officers and 60 commissioned officers to lead it. Once created, the President was authorized to discontinue the Customs Border Patrol and the Immigration Border Patrol. Therefore, this proposed USCG border patrol was not going to absorb the other patrols, but was to take their place.
On April 2, 1930, a gunfight occurred between Border Patrol Inspectors and alcohol smugglers in which smuggler Lorenzo Galindo was fatally shot. This collection of documents describes the brief gunfight where a total of five shots were fired.

1935

On April 1, 1935, Chief of the Border Patrol Willard Kelly authored one of the earliest documentsconcerning construction of facilities for the USBP. The USBP had always utilized existing structures for Border Patrol work. This document proposed new construction for the first time.

1953

On April 2, 1953, Assistant Commissioner (former Chief of the Border Patrol) Willard Kelly wrote a memothe District Director of the San Antonio District concerning, “The need for a fence at Brownsville, Texas to form a barrier against illegal entry or aliens.” This memo was a cover memo for a 7-page reportconcerning “the need construction of boundary fence and observation towers in vicinity of Brownsville, Texas-Matamoros, Mexico to control illegal traffic.” The document is a “condensed report taken from a 29-page report submitted by Patrol Inspector in Charge Snow.” The first two paragraphs which were written 68 years ago, seem just as applicable today.
- The illegal traffic across the practically dry Rio Grande River bed within the area encompassed by the city limits of Brownsville, Texas and the neighboring city of Matamoros, Tamps., Mexico has reached such proportions that the construction of a boundary fence seems to be not only necessary and justified but also almost imperative. I know of no other way to cope with the situation. It is already completely beyond the ability of the presently authorized strength of the Brownsville Border Patrol unit to control, and grows worse steadily.
- The seriousness of this situation lies not only in the fact that such large numbers of aliens are violating our Immigration laws to the point or making a farce or them, but that this disgraceful situation has become a public spectacle with thousands of out of state visitors from all over the nation witnessing and photographing these brazen mass violations of our laws in open daylight.

1955

On March 30, 1955, famed Chief Patrol Inspector Leonard Gilman wrote a memo, that included numerous photos, to propose/justify the construction of a border fence in the Brownsville Sub-district. This is a must read for current and former McAllen/Rio Grande Valley Sector folks.
- Many times, Agent Gilman is mistakenly given sole credit for saving the day during the hijacking in 1961. Although Gliman took out the adult hijacker, FBI special agent Francis Crosby and Second Officer Norman Simmons took out the other hijacker.

Newton-Azrak Award Actions
(Follow this link to see examples of USBP employees Upholding Honor First)

An organization’s values are codified in its awards system. Recognizing the achievements, service and heroism of employees is important. It is critical for those in positions of leadership to value the workforce. Awards are a fundamental manner for leaders to demonstrate appreciation to the workforce for upholding the organizational values. – U.S. Border Patrol Honorary Awards

1994
Robert S. Herrera
Border Patrol Agent
Yuma Sector
On March 29, 1994, at approximately 9:30 a.m., Border Patrol Agent Robert S. Herrera responded to an intrusion device that had indicated activity near the Sanchez Canal, west of San Luis, Arizona.  Upon Arrival, Agent Herrera observed a subject who appeared to be a male juvenile swimming to the east bank of the canal.  While watching the subject swim to the other side, BPA Herrera’s attention was caught by a disturbance in the water just to the south of where the first subject was swimming.

Looking to the south, Agent Herrera saw a person’s head break the surface of the water and then go back under. Continuing to watch, Agent Herrera saw the person pop up again, flail the water, and gasp for air before disappearing beneath the surface again.

By the time the individual went under for the third time, Agent Herrera was on the bank of the canal, dropping his leather as he jumped into the water.  In the middle of the canal, Agent Herrera was able to grab and eight-year-old child and bring him safely back to shore where BPA Matthew Sutton pulled him up onto dry land.

Robert Herrera’s actions on the morning of March 29, 1994, were above and beyond what is normally expected of an agent.  He imperiled his own safety by leaping into a polluted canal to save the life of a child.

1999
William T. Veal
Chief Patrol Agent
San Diego Sector
On the night of April 1, 1999, eastern San Diego County experienced very low temperatures and unexpected snow during a fierce overnight storm, which left many illegal entrant aliens stranded and lost in the rugged mountainous terrain of the area.  Many of these people were in great peril of imminent death and at least seven others had already succumbed.

After ensuring that Sector resources were mobilized to cope with this emergency, Chief Patrol Agent William T. Veal, in the early morning hours of April 2, responded by flying into service the Border Patrol’s heavy lift UH-1 helicopter.  Joined by the Patrol Agent in Charge of Air Operations, John D. Pool and Deputy Chief Patrol Agent Harold R. Beasley, he flew into very hazardous weather conditions to effect the rescue of stranded and hypothermic aliens.  During this time, Chief Veal rescued eight aliens who were hypothermic and in imminent danger of death.  The attending physician stated to rescue personnel that one of these individuals would have died had he not received medical attention within the hour.  Additionally, by flying through treacherous terrain in deteriorating weather conditions, while fighting low ceilings, clouds, and fog, Chief Veal inserted Border Patrol and San Diego County Search and Rescue teams into accessible areas to search for stranded aliens. This included making landings in the same rugged terrain, at times with only one tip of a skid touching the ground.

With no regard for his personal safety, Chief Veal continued search and rescue activities until he was assured that no additional aliens were in peril.  He flew a total of 6.9 hours with the only breaks being three brief refueling stops.

2001
Benjamin Sanford
Senior Patrol Agent
El Centro Sector
On April 2, 2001, Senior Patrol Agent Benjamin Sanford was patrolling a stretch of the All American Canal, near Calexico, California, monitoring the border fence for people attempting to enter the country illegally from Mexico. A concerned citizen frantically approached him to report that a car had just plummeted into the canal. Agent Sanford immediately called his colleagues at the Calexico Station for assistance, and then drove to the crash site. When he arrived at the scene, he saw a partially submerged car and a woman flailing in a fight against the swift currents. Realizing he could not wait for help to arrive, and giving little regard to his own well-being, he dove into the water, swam to the woman, and dragged her to shore. His heroic actions saved her from certain death.

USBP Fallen

As of December 8, 2021, the U.S. Border Patrol has suffered 151* fallen.
Titles

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

The names that appear below hold a place of honor. They have made the ultimate sacrifice in an effort to fulfill the oath each officer took to protect and defend the United States of America.

The facts regarding each officer are presented without major editing of the "language of the day" found in the reports detailing the circumstances of each event. This is done to provide the reader an association with historical timeframes.

Employees who died in the line of duty due to being exposed to deadly illnesses will not have the cause of death listed.

*With the exception of two of the fallen immediately below, all names are listed (or in the process of being included) on the official Honor Roll of U.S. Border Patrol fallen and inscribed on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. The U.S. Border Patrol should fix these discrepancies. HonorFirst.com honors both of the fallen.

Joe R. White - He is recognized as officially fallen by the U.S. Border Patrol but his name is not inscribed on the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial.
John Charles Gigax - His name is inscribed on the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial (see link) but he is not recognized as officially fallen by the U.S. Border Patrol. His EOW was November 7, 1999.

Lee L. Bounds
Date of Birth:                November 24, 1936
Entered on Duty:          June 22, 1970
Title:                             Patrol Agent
End of Watch:               March 29, 1974
Details:
Border Patrol Agent Lee L. Bounds of the Lordsburg Station, El Paso Sector, was killed in a jeep accident on March 29, 1974. He was traveling alone on a road between Animas and Rodeo, New Mexico, southwest of Lordsburg, and ran the jeep off the right shoulder of the road. He lost control when he attempted to steer the vehicle back onto the road and the jeep overturned. Bounds was thrown from the vehicle, which rolled over him before stopping in an upright position, Mr. Bounds’ head was crushed. The jeep, which was equipped with seat belts and roll bar, was damaged extensively.

Luis A. Santiago
Date of Birth:                November 9, 1964
Entered on Duty:          June 6, 1994
Title:                              Border Patrol Agent (Trainee)
End of Watch:               March 28, 1995
Details:
At approximately 11:45 p.m., Agent Santiago was working in a canyon near Lower Otay Reservoir when he and other agents saw a group of about 20 illegal aliens.  The agents identified themselves as Border Patrol and ordered the aliens to stop. The group scattered and the agents followed.  Agent Santiago gave chase along the rim of the canyon, taking a narrow trail that leads to the edge of a cliff. He lost his footing on loose rock and slippery grass and fell approximately 120 feet to his death.

On June 6, 1994, Luis Santiago joined the U.S. Border Patrol as a BPA (Trainee) at the San Diego Sector/Brown Field Station in San Diego, California. After entering on duty, he was sent to the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, Georgia. On October 18, 1994, he graduated from the 267th Session and returned to San Diego.  Agent Santiago was one week short of taking his ten-month examination.

Stephen M. Sullivan
Date of Birth:                July 6, 1971
Entered on Duty:          August 4, 1996
Title:                             Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch:              March 27, 1999
Details:
On Saturday, March 27, 1999, Border Patrol Agent Stephen M. Sullivan was transporting a group of aliens on the Otay Truck Trail when his vehicle overturned and rolled down an embankment. Three of the aliens, who had been thrown from the vehicle, climbed up out of the embankment and approached another Border Patrol Agent, stating that others were still inside the vehicle and had been injured. Four people, including Agent Sullivan, were killed in the accident.

Agent Sullivan began his career with the INS as an Adjudications Officer in Los Angeles. He was hired by the Border Patrol in September 1997. At the time of his death, he was assigned to the El Cajon Station of the San Diego Sector.

Jarod C. Dittman
Date of Birth:                September 9, 1979
Entered on Duty:          March 5, 2007
Title:                              Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch:               March 30, 2008
Details:
Border Patrol Agent Jarod C. Dittman was killed in a single-vehicle accident near Jamul, California in the early morning hours of March 30, 2008.

Agent Dittman was driving from the Brown Field Border Patrol Station to his assigned patrol area, when his service vehicle rolled over, ejecting Agent Dittman from the vehicle. Another Border Patrol agent drove up on the scene and immediately called for emergency assistance. Due to the heavy fog, an airlift helicopter could not respond. Agent Dittman was pronounced dead while enroute to the hospital.

Agent Dittman entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol on March 5, 2007, as a member of the 660th session of the Border Patrol Academy.  He was assigned to the Brown Field Station immediately after graduation from the Academy. Prior to joining the Border Patrol, Agent Dittman served in the Pennsylvania National Guard.

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This Week in USBP History, 03/20-03/26

3/20/2022

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Good morning,
Another huge week in USBP history. This week starts with letters of recommendation and complaints for Jeff Milton. There are documents concerning firearms training in the 1930’s, internment camp tears gas inventories in the 1940’s, and the need for a border barrier in the McAllen Sector in the 1950’s.

We remember 8 recipients of the Newton-Azrak Award, including the first two women recipients. Related to one of the Newton-Azrak Award actions, we remember one of the greatest strengths of the USBP Honorary Award program (the ability to consider and recognize past actions, correcting past wrongs) as Cary Scott received the USBP Commendation Medal with a “V” device 7 years after the event.

Finally, this week marks the LODD anniversaries of three of our fallen.

Enjoy!

Esprit de Corps

The workplace climate resulting from a combination of organizational pride and employee morale.

Organizational pride is the positive feeling experienced by employees from being part of a meaningful team that is rich in history, tradition and culture.
Employee morale is the feeling experienced by employees based in part on their perception of:
- Being valued by the organization,
- Fairly compensated, and
- Performing meaningful work.

USBP History
1904

On March 26, 1904, George Webb, the Inspector in Charge of Tucson wrote a letter of recommendationto hire J.D. Milton as a “Chinese and Immigration Inspector.” In the letter, Webb recommends that Milton be compensated $1 per day for horse feed which would be enough for Milton to maintain two horses (one for riding and the other as a pack horse).
- No evidence has been discovered that would support that Border Patrol Inspectors were required to provide their own horses, saddles or firearms as a condition of employment. However, in those instances where a Border Patrol Inspector used their own horse, the government would provide reimbursement.
  - This 1905 document is an example of Jeff Milton receiving additional pay for using his own horse.
  - 1924 Border Patrol Inspector announcement - no requirement for horse, saddle or firearm.
  - 1925 Border Patrol Inspector announcement - no requirement for horse, saddle or firearm.

1907

On March 22, 1907, George Webb, who was then the supervisor of Jeff Milton wrote a memo to the Commissioner-General concerning Milton having an accidental discharge while attempting to stop a dog fight resulting in the injury of a person (shot in the foot with a ricocheting round). Webb defends Milton by stating, “I further state that, if Milton had fired at the dog or man intentionally, the bullet would have penetrated a deadly spot, as he is a "crack shot." Further, Milton was arrested and Webb writes, “The most damaging evidence submitted against Milton seems to be that of the arresting officer, in which he states that Milton denied having a gun, which is not corroborated by any other witness, and can be accounted for by him being a Mexican, newly appointed to office and desiring a reputation.”
On March 25, 1907, once again Webb had to write a memo to the Commissioner-General concerning Milton. In this instance, a complaint against Milton had been sent to the President and the Commissioner-General wanted additional information. This is a must-read document. See some of the quotes below:
- Concerning the complainant, Dave Black, Webb writes - I beg to advise that Black is personally known to me; that no credit can be given to the statement made by him, he being a professional saloon loafer, and alleged to be addicted to the morphine habit, and no doubt resorts to illegal means by aiding in the illegal importation of Chinese from Mexico (He being a Chinese mason); yet we have been unable to apprehend him.
- … (Black) was making threats that he would kill Milton on sight; to which Milton replied that Black was a very foolish man.

1926

On March 24, 1926, a memo was written to convert Immigrant Inspectors who had been designated to be Patrol Inspectors in Charge to Immigrant Inspectors designated to be Chief Patrol Inspectors. This change was driven by General Order 61 which was signed on March 18, 1926.
On March 26, 1926, U.S. Customs Border Patrol Inspector Elton Clark wrote a letter to the Buffalo District Director. Clark had applied to become and was offered a position as a U.S. Immigration Border Patrol Inspector. Clark declined the position and asked that his name be left in consideration for one year. None of my records show an “Elton Clark” ever having been an Immigration Border Patrol Inspector. I guess he didn’t jump ship.
On March 26, 1926, the Commissioner-General sent a memo to the Commissioners of Immigration and the District Directors concerning the newly signed General Order 61. The memo stated that GO61 would not come into effect until April 1. Therefore, that date is the birth date of the position, Chief of the Border Patrol (then called Supervisor of Border Patrol).
- Being a veteran of the U.S. Navy and knowing that at least one of the recipients of this email was a Chief Petty Officer in the Navy, I would be remiss if failed to point out that the two positions share the same birth dates,
  - Chief Petty Officer – April 1, 1893
  - Chief of the Border Patrol – April 1, 1926

1930

On March 24, 1930, the Commissioner-General wrote a memo that identified the hierarchy, leadership and locations of the USBP at the time on the border with Mexico. At the time, there were three Districts with the ranking USBP holding the title of Assistant Superintendent. Chief Patrol Inspectors led sub-districts (sectors) and Patrol Inspectors in Charge led stations.

1932

On March 26, 1932, Second Assistant Secretary (Department of Labor) William Husband wrote a memoto the Secretary concerning the USBP position of Assistant Superintendents. Husband had been the Commissioner-General 1921-1925, as the USBP was created. Further, the memo was written “in conference with Directors Harris and Berkshire”.
- George Harris is the only person to have served nonconsecutive terms as “Chief” of the Border Patrol. During both of his terms, the USBP had northern border and southern border “Chiefs”, 1926-1927 and 1932-1933.
- Concerning Harris and Berkshire having the titles of “Director”, in 1932 GO61 was superseded with two other General Orders which created the two Border Districts and the position of Supervisor of the Border Patrol was changed to Director, Border Patrol:
  - General Order 183 – (January 5, 1932) which created the Director of the Border Patrol for the Mexican Border, Gulf and Florida immigration districts. The district was headquartered in El Paso and George Harris came back to be the "Chief" for a nonconsecutive term.
  - General Order 184 - (January 5, 1932) which created the Director of the Canadian Border District. The district was headquartered in Detroit and Frank Berkshire, the Father of the Border Patrol, became the third person to be "Chief" of the Border Patrol.
  - The two border district approach was very short-lived, beginning in 1932 and ending in 1933 when GO183 and GO184 were superseded with General Order 203 which reinstated GO61 effective June 1, 1933.

1935

On March 23, 1935, famed Border Patrol Inspector Charles Askins, Jr. submitted a 17-page outline “for a course of Instruction (pistol) for future Border Patrol Training Schools.”
- Remember, a photograph (courtesy of the Border Patrol Museum) of a Border Patrol training class that was in session December 3, 1934 - March 17, 1935, is used as the birthdate of the USBP Academy. It is unknown if Camp Chigas had been used by the El Paso District (Tucson, El Paso and Big Bend Sub-districts) to train district employees before that photo. However, the concept of creating a national academy had been discussed and researched in 1934 (see this document and this document). Records were not kept that identified the date that Camp Chigas began training all Border Patrol new hires and therefore became the national Academy. Nevertheless, 1936 is the year that documents support that having occurred.

1945

On March 20, 1945, the Acting Assistant Commissioner for Alien Control wrote a request for informationconcerning the inventory of tear gas and other like items at five internment camps. The Acting Assistant Commissioner was Nicolas Donald Collaer who began his Immigration Service career in the El Paso District in 1922 and would retire after having been the Chief of the Border Patrol (1948-1950).

1953

On March 20, 1953, Chief Patrol Inspector Fletcher Rawls of the McAllen Sector (now the Rio Grande Valley Sector) submitted a 7-page report concerning “the need construction of boundary fence and observation towers in vicinity of Brownsville, Texas-Matamoros, Mexico to control illegal traffic.” The document is a “condensed report taken from a 29-page report submitted by Patrol Inspector in Charge Snow.” The first two paragraphs which were written 68 years ago, seem just as applicable today.
- The illegal traffic across the practically dry Rio Grande River bed within the area encompassed by the city limits of Brownsville, Texas and the neighboring city of Matamoros, Tamps., Mexico has reached such proportions that the construction of a boundary fence seems to be not only necessary and justified but also almost imperative. I know of no other way to cope with the situation. It is already completely beyond the ability of the presently authorized strength of the Brownsville Border Patrol unit to control, and grows worse steadily.
- The seriousness of this situation lies not only in the fact that such large numbers of aliens are violating our Immigration laws to the point or making a farce or them, but that this disgraceful situation has become a public spectacle with thousands of out of state visitors from all over the nation witnessing and photographing these brazen mass violations of our laws in open daylight.

Newton-Azrak Award Actions
(Follow this link to see examples of USBP employees Upholding Honor First)

An organization’s values are codified in its awards system. Recognizing the achievements, service and heroism of employees is important. It is critical for those in positions of leadership to value the workforce. Awards are a fundamental manner for leaders to demonstrate appreciation to the workforce for upholding the organizational values. – U.S. Border Patrol Honorary Awards

1979
Kenneth D. Crockett - group photo
Border Patrol Agent
Yuma Sector
Larry M. Herbert
Investigator
Yuma, Arizona
William A. McIver - award documents, photo 1, photo 2
Border Patrol Agent
Houlton Sector

On March 25, 1978 at approximately 6:30 PM, Agent Larry Herbert was near a construction bridge that spans the Andrade and Morales area near Yuma, Arizona.  The water which flows under the bridge is constricted which creates an extremely dangerous and turbulent whirlpool.

As Agent Herbert approached the bridge, he saw three people in a small boat.  The operator of the boat was frantically attempting and failing to start the boat's motor.  Agent Herbert immediately radioed for help.

Agent Herbert attempted unsuccessfully to reach the people with a tow strap before it was pulled into the turbulent waters where it capsized spilling the occupants into the water.  All of the occupants were having difficulty keeping their heads above water.  Agent Herbert was able to quickly pull two of the victims from the water.  Keeping the third person in sight, he instructed one of the people he had just saved to use his Service vehicle's radio to advise that more help was needed.

Upon seeing that the third victim had been pulled into the whirlpool, Agent Herbert jumped into the water to rescue him.  Becoming exhausted and unable to save the victim, Agent Herbert swam to shore.

As Agent Herbert swam to shore, Agent William McIver and Agent Kenneth Crockett arrived at the scene.  Agent McIver immediately jumped into the water and entered the whirlpool with the victim.  After a tremendous struggle, Agent McIver was able to escape the whirlpool with the victim.

Having become exhausted, Agent McIver couldn't get himself and the victim out of the water.  Agent Crockett then reach out and was able to pull both Agent McIver and the third victim to shore.

1994 – (first female Newton-Azrak Award recipients)
Christina M. Carnes
Border Patrol Agent
El Paso Sector
David Hinojosa Jr.
Border Patrol Agent
El Paso Sector
Cheryl R. Smith
Border Patrol Agent
El Paso Sector
Bruce L. Cooke
Supervisory Border Patrol Agent
El Paso Sector

On March 20, 1994, Rose Johnson-Navarro was involved in a one-vehicle accident on Paisano Avenue in El Paso, Texas.  Her vehicle had gone out of control, crashed through a fence and guard rail, and came to rest on its wheels with the front end slanted down towards a deep canal.

Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Bruce L. Cooke, Border Patrol Agents Cheryl Smith, Christina M. Carnes, and David Hinjosa Jr. of the El Paso Border Patrol Station responded to the scene.  The entire front part of the vehicle was engulfed in flames that swept back over the front half of the vehicle.  The inside of the vehicle was completely obscured with smoke.  A bystander informed the agents that no one had escaped from the vehicle.

With the knowledge that someone was still inside the burning vehicle and at great personal risk, the agents attempted to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher.  They managed to suppress the fire enough to open the driver side door.  They then entered the burning vehicle and extricated Ms. Johnson, who was injured and unable to escape.

After being carried to a safe distance, Ms. Johnson advised the agents that her two children were still inside the vehicle.

Agents Smith, Carnes, and Hinjosa then returned to the vehicle that was almost fully engulfed in flames and managed to search for the missing children to no avail.  It was later determined that the children had not been in the vehicle.

Agents Cooke, Smith, Carnes, and Hinjosa, at their own personal life risk, saved the life of Rose Johnson-Navarro by exercising unusual courage and bravery.

2013
* Ruben Mendoza - photo
Border Patrol Agent,
Hebbronville, Texas

For his heroic actions to save a wounded agent under extreme duress. On March 21, 2013, Agent Ruben Mendoza was involved in a lethal force incident near Hebbronville, Texas. Two agents on roving patrol stopped to assist an individual they initially believed to be a stranded motorist. During the course of the encounter, the agents discovered the motorist was a violent felon, driving a stolen vehicle. When one of the agents attempted to search the subject before arrest, the subject resisted. As the two other agents struggled with the subject, Agent Mendoza moved to a position of tactical advantage and drew his service weapon. The subject gained access to a hidden handgun, and fired at the two agents, wounding one of them. At that time, BPA Mendoza fired several rounds, incapacitating the subject. Agent Mendoza then rendered first aid to the wounded agent. Agent Mendoza’s composure and professionalism under extreme pressure prevented further harm to his colleagues.

*Pedro Saldivar was the agent wounded during this action.  He was recognized with the Commissioner’s Meritorious Service Award for Valor and the USBP Purple Cross.

As per the Texas DPS investigator, Border Patrol Agent Cary Scott saved all three agents by physically engaging the shooter.  His tenacious grappling with the shooter preventing the shooter from delivering accurate fire.  At the time, Agent Scott received no recognition. Cary Scott became the first person whose past acts of unrecognized heroism/valor was recognized under the USBP Honorary Awards.  He received a USBP Commendation Medal with “V” device for extraordinary heroism.  Cary’s action was a major catalyst in the development of the USBP Honorary Awards policy, specifically authorizing past actions to be considered and recognized.

I will note that Chief Ortiz has crippled the ability of the USBP to recognize past acts like those of Cary Scott.  Chief Ortiz personally blocked over 370 employees from receiving USBP recognition for their past worthy acts, include four employees who were nominated and recommend to receive Newton-Azrak Awards.  Further, Agent Saldivar should also have received a USBP Commendation Medal with “V” device but Chief Ortiz’s decision blocks that recognition also.

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This Week in USBP History, 03/13-03/19

3/13/2022

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Good morning,
This is a huge week in USBP history:

There is a 1918 document that was on the path to the creation of the U.S. Border Patrol,
What I think is the most influential document in USBP history, General Order 61,
The most epic name to have donned a USBP uniform, Inspector Sixkiller!
Four Newton-Azrak Award action anniversaries, and
We remember four of our fallen on the anniversaries of their line of duty deaths.

Esprit de Corps
The workplace climate resulting from a combination of organizational pride and employee morale.

Organizational pride is the positive feeling experienced by employees from being part of a meaningful team that is rich in history, tradition and culture.
Employee morale is the feeling experienced by employees based in part on their perception of:
- Being valued by the organization,
- Fairly compensated, and
- Performing meaningful work.

USBP History
1918

On March 15, 1918, and unknown person wrote a response to the status of the southern borderpresented by Frank Berkshire a month earlier. These two documents are some of the first documents that would lead to Berkshire’s proposals to create the U.S. Border Patrol. Visit this page if you haven’t already - The Father of the Border Patrol

1925

On March 14, 1925, The District Director of the Jacksonville district forwarded a uniform related requestto the Commissioner-General from the Patrol Inspector in Charge of the Jacksonville Sub-district. Several things of interest are present in the memo:
- This document (page 2) inarguably proves that Border Patrol employees were assigned to Florida in 1924 staring with 3 sub-districts (called sectors in the 1940’s), Jacksonville, Tampa, and Miami.
- This memo was written a mere 3 months after the implementation of the USBP’s first uniform policy, General Order 42.
- It includes the coolest name of any Border Patrol Inspector or Agent, ever! Jesse M. Sixkiller (1899-1959)!

1926

On March 16, 1926, General Order 61 (GO 61) was signed. It is a foundational document in Border Patrol history and, perhaps, the single most influential document in Border Patrol history for the following reasons;
- It contains one of the earliest known descriptions of the functions of the Border Patrol (GO 63expanded on this)
  - The Border Patrol is an auxiliary branch of the regular Immigration Service. The Patrol is established primarily to prevent and detect the surreptitious entry of aliens into the United States. It will however, aid in the enforcement of all federal laws designed to safeguard our country against the introduction of contraband. The Patrol will, in general, operate along and in the vicinity of the international and maritime borders of the United States.
- It created the hierarchal naming convention of calling a sub-district (modern-day sector) by both a number, and the city in which it was located. It is believed that this document’s concept was also used for stations and is the genesis for El Paso Station being called “Station One” and Laredo Sector calling all of their stations “Base #” to name two. See the USBP History page, “Why is the El Paso Station called Station One?” section for more information.
  - Each Patrol district will in turn be appropriately divided into subdistricts numbered consecutively, beginning with No. 1 in each district.
- It created an organizational framework that is recognizable today.
  - Supervisors (Border Patrol) – This is what we call Chief of the Border Patrol today. This was a non-uniformed position.
  - Officers in charge of districts – This was an extra title added on to the 11 heads of districts that had Border Patrol employees. They were not Border Patrol employees but were in their chains of command. Their official titles were either “District Director” or “Commissioner of Immigration”.
  - Assistant Superintendents, who shall be qualified immigrant inspectors – These were the ranking Border Patrol employees in a district. There was only one per district. Remember, a district was comprised of multiple sub-districts, modern-day sectors. They were also the highest-ranking uniformed position in the USBP.
  - Chief Patrol Inspectors, who shall be qualified immigrant inspectors – They led sub-districts and the title is still used today with “Agent” instead of “Inspector”
  - Senior Patrol Inspectors – This was a supervisory position between the Chief Patrol Inspector and Patrol Inspectors. The position had a one sentence position description (below) until this guidance was issued. It is also the launching point of the 10-15 positions that exist between the modern-day Border Patrol Agent and Chief Patrol Agent.
    - Senior Patrol Inspectors will perform such duties as may be assigned to them by the respective Chief Patrol Inspectors under whom they serve.
  - Patrol Inspectors – The heart of the organization
    - Patrol Inspectors will be expected to familiarize themselves with all federal statutes designed to prevent the unlawful entry of aliens and introduction of contraband. Law violators apprehended, together with any contraband seized by patrol inspectors, will be turned over to the appropriate law enforcement agencies, and proper receipt therefore, on Form 644, secured when delivery is made to other than immigration officers. They will be charged with the proper use and care of all Government equipment entrusted to them.
  - Clerks, and Motor Mechanics – USBP support personnel have been there since the beginning.
- It created reports that both one and two patch agents may recognize
  - The Daily Report – Form 650
  - Receipts for Persons and Contraband – Form 644
    - They evolved to become the I-44 in the 1940’s
  - Weekly Reports – Form 643
  - Monthly Reports

1931

On March 11, 1931, a letter requesting information about wearing military and state decorations was written. This letter is the earliest document concerning the wearing of awards of which I am aware. However, there are photos of early Border Patrol Inspectors wearing awards as is in this photo (white shirts were first authorized under the jacket in 1928 as per the amendments to General Order 42).
- USBP Honorary Awards are authorized for wear. Unfortunately, the majority of leaders do not support the USBP’s formal recognition system by wearing their awards.

1933

On March 13, 1931, George Harris, wrote a memo to the Commissioner-General requesting fabric that was used for rank and time-in-service insignia. This short memo is full of interesting items:
- Harris’ title is “Director”. That was the title used for “Chief of the Border Patrol” from 1932-1933. This would mark the second time that Harris was the “Chief of the Border Patrol”. He is the only person to have been Chief in non-consecutive terms. See the USBP History page, “What were the two Border Districts?” for more information.
- The insignia are described in General Order 179, the USBP’s second uniform policy. The silver fabric was for Border Patrol Inspectors and Senior Patrol Inspectors. The gold fabric was for Chief Patrol Inspectors and Assistant Superintendents. The stars and 1/4” width fabric were used for time-in-service insignia and the 3/8” width fabric was used for the rank insignia for Senior Patrol Inspectors, Chief Patrol Inspectors and Assistant Superintendents. See this pagefor more information on the USBP’s early rank and time-in-service insignia.

1934

On March 16, 1934, the Chief Patrol Inspector of the El Paso Sub-district recommended the adoption on a rough duty uniform to the District Director. This is the earliest document concerning a rough duty uniform of which I am aware.

1939

On January 18, 1939, the Central Office (HQ for you newbies) 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. The Spokane District sent their response on March 14, 1939.

1942

On March 18, 1942, the Assistant Chief Supervisor of the Border Patrol wrote a letter to the National Park Service request their building designs. The Border Patrol was going to use them in assisting to design USBP buildings in El Centro, Tucson, El Paso, Alpine, and other unnamed areas.
- The position of “Assistant Chief Supervisor of the Border” would evolve to be the Deputy Chief of the Border Patrol. This document from October 18, 1940, is he earliest document of which I am aware that speaks to the position (coincidentally, the document concerned facilities and the position was held by H.J. Walls then). By 1950, H.J. Walls would be a Supervising Engineer.

Newton-Azrak Award Actions
(Follow this link to see examples of USBP employees Upholding Honor First)

An organization’s values are codified in its awards system. Recognizing the achievements, service and heroism of employees is important. It is critical for those in positions of leadership to value the workforce. Awards are a fundamental manner for leaders to demonstrate appreciation to the workforce for upholding the organizational values. – U.S. Border Patrol Honorary Awards

1992
Christopher M. Jacobs (one of the 26 non-USBP recipients)
Detention Enforcement Officer
Buffalo, New York
On March 16, 1992, Detention Enforcement Officer Christopher M. Jacobs saved a passenger from a burning vehicle.  He and another officer were escorting a detained alien on the New York State Thruway.  They were at a tollbooth when a vehicle traveling at a high speed plowed into the rear of another vehicle in the booth adjacent to the D & D vehicle.  There was an instantaneous explosion that pushed the vehicle forward about 200 feet, engulfing the car into a fireball.  Officer Jacobs exited his vehicle, obtained a fire extinguisher, and ran to the vehicle.  The driver was able to exit on his own but the passenger was semi-conscious and unable to get out.  Officer Jacobs entered through the driver’s door, ignoring the real danger for himself, and got the passenger out.  He administered first aid until the ambulance arrived.

Alan W. Marshall
Border Patrol Agent
Buffalo Sector
During the evening shift on March 15, 1992, Border Patrol Agent Alan W. Marshall made a winter water rescue of an alien he was pursuing, who broke through an ice-covered pond.  In trying to reach the man, Agent Marshall was plunged into the same water as the ice gave way beneath him.  Agent Marshall’s strength, endurance, and bravery saved not only himself, but also the alien twice that night.  After having to physically lift the man from the water, Agent Marshall had to force the man to stay on his feet and walk to reach shelter in 17-degree weather.

1998
Richard L. Ashlaw
Patrol Agent In Charge
Swanton Sector
For his heroic actions and unselfish disregard of his own personal safety to come to the rescue of James Baker, who otherwise had no chance of surviving the New Albion Hotel fire March 16, 1998.  Patrol Agent in Charge Ashlaw’s actions certainly went above and beyond the responsibilities and duties of a Border Patrol Agent.

1999Floyd Southerland III
Border Patrol Agent
Del Rio Sector
On March 18, 1999, at approximately 12 noon, Border Patrol Agent Floyd “Buddy” Southerland III and his partner responded to sensor activity three miles up river from the Port of Entry at Del Rio, Texas.  Upon arrival at the location of the sensors, Agent Southerland and his partner observed four subjects on the United States side of the Rio Grande River.  When the four subjects saw the Border Patrol vehicle, three of the four jumped into the river and began to swim to an island in mid-river.  The fourth hesitated, looked at the agents, then jumped.  The fourth man could not swim.

The Rio Grande River flow down river from Amistad Dam is controlled through water release monitored by the International Boundary and Water Commission.  The commission had increased water release from the dam to supplement irrigation needs in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas to a level that brought the river to a very high and swift current.

As Agent Southerland arrived and observed the scene, the fourth man was floundering in the water away from the shore and near the mid-river island.  Agent Southerland shouted to the three men on the island to help their friend, but they refused.  The Rio Grande, due to high water, was a mass of floating debris of cane stalks and other flotsam.  Thinking quickly as he watched the river drag the man down and away from the shore and island, Buddy told his partner to get the spare tire from the government vehicle as he began to remove his gun belt and boots.  Without hesitation and with total disregard for his own safety, Agent Southerland dove into the muddy river to search for the man.  Agent Southerland’s partner cast the spare tire into the river, Agent Southerland used the tire as a floatation device, swam out, located the floundering man, pulled his head out of the water and with monumental effort, brought the man back to the safety of the river bank.  The man was a 29-year-old Mexican national.

Agent Southerland’s act of selfless heroism and life-saving actions of commendable efficiency and skill draw upon his training and experience acquired throughout his career with the U.S. Border Patrol.  He displayed great physical courage, as well as moral courage, to do the right thing.

This was the second act of heroism that Agent Southerland had been involved in during that Fiscal Year.

In October of 1998, Buddy was cited by the office of the District Attorney, 63rd Judicial District of Texas, for his apprehension and arrest of a man who had kidnapped a teenaged girl, terrorized, and sexually assaulted her.  It was the opinion of the District Attorney that Buddy saved her life by rescuing the girl from the man who was holding this young victim.

USBP Fallen
As of December 8, 2021, the U.S. Border Patrol has suffered 151* fallen.
Titles

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

Joe R. White - He is recognized as officially fallen by the U.S. Border Patrol but his name is not inscribed on the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial.
John Charles Gigax - His name is inscribed on the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial (see link) but he is not recognized as officially fallen by the U.S. Border Patrol. His EOW was November 7, 1999.

2006
Nicholas D. Greenig
Date of Birth:                February 20, 1978
Entered on Duty:          December 1, 2002
Title:                              Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch:              March 14, 2006
Details:
On March 14, 2006, Agent Nicholas Greenig was killed in a vehicle accident on the Tohono O'odham Nation in Pima County, Arizona, when the department vehicle he was riding in struck a bull walking across the highway. He and his partner were working a plainclothes detail when the accident occurred at approximately 8:00 pm.
Agent Greenig had served with the Border Patrol for three years and was assigned to Ajo Station in Tucson Sector. He was raised in Laurel, Montana, where he attended public schools before he transferred to a private high school in Billings. He graduated with honors from Utah Valley State College in Provo and joined the Border Patrol in 2002. Agent Greenig was a graduate of the 535th session of the Border Patrol Academy. He was a senior patrol agent and a member of a special unit that targeted violent criminal organizations, which smuggled people and drugs.

2007
*Ramon Nevarez, Jr.
Date of Birth:                March 27, 1983
Entered on Duty:          August 15, 2005
Title:                             Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch:              March 15, 2007
Details:
On March 15, 2007, Agents Ramon Nevarez and David Tourscher were involved in a single vehicle accident on NM Highway 338 near Cotton City, New Mexico.  At approximately 9:00 p.m., Agent Nevarez succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Agent Tourscher was flown to a hospital in El Paso, Texas, where he died. Agent Nevarez had served with the Border Patrol for two years.

*David J. Tourscher
Date of Birth:                November 22, 1982
Entered on Duty:          June 26, 2006
Title:                              Border Patrol Agent (trainee)
End of Watch:               March 16, 2007
Details:
On March 15, 2007, Agents David Tourscher and Ramon Nevarez were involved in a single vehicle accident on NM Highway 338 near Cotton City, New Mexico.
Agent Nevarez succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Agent Tourscher was flown to a hospital in El Paso, Texas, where he died early the following morning.  Agent Tourscher had served with the Border Patrol for nine months.

2021
Alejandro Flores-Bañuelos
Date of Birth:                November 4, 1985
Entered on Duty:          March 5, 2009
Title:                             Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch:               March 15, 2021
Details:
Border Patrol Agent Alejandro Flores-Bañuelos was struck by a vehicle and killed on March 15, 2021.  Agent Flores-Bañuelos had responded to reports of a crash on state Route 86, a four-lane divided highway north of Marina, California.  The traffic accident occurred during a dust storm that caused low visibility in the area.   Flores-Bañuelos was the first to arrive on the scene and began assisting a 75-year-old woman whose vehicle had become disabled in the roadway.  A second northbound vehicle struck Agent Flores-Bañuelos who was transported to Pioneers Memorial Hospital and later succumbed to his injuries.
BPA Flores-Bañuelos started his CBP career on March 5, 2009 and spent his entire Border Patrol career at the Indio, California Border Patrol Station in the El Centro Sector.  Prior to joining the Border Patrol, Agent Flores-Bañuelos honorably served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps.  He was born and raised in Richgrove, California and graduated from McFarland High School in McFarland, California.  He is survived by his wife, his three children and his mother.

* A sad fact is that the USBP has lost two Agents/Inspectors due to the same event nine times (18 fallen).  Their names are listed below:

Donald Kee and William F. Buckelew in 1954
Douglas C. Shute and James M. Carter in 1956
Theodore L. Newton, Jr. and George F. Azrak in 1967
Friedrich Karl and John S. Blue in 1973
Susan L. Rodriguez and Ricardo G. Salinas in 1998
Jesus de la Ossa and Thomas J. Williams in 1998
Travis W. Attaway and Jeremy M. Wilson in 2004
Ramon Nevarez, Jr. and David J. Tourscher in 2007
Hector R. Clark and Eduardo Rojas, Jr. in 2011

Daniel P. Cox and Edgardo Acosta-Feliciano both fell on July 31, 2021. However, their causes of death were not related.

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This Week in USBP History, 03/06-03/12

3/6/2022

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Good morning,

Every week I include the definition of Esprit de Corps. But, I have the suspicion that many may skip over it to get to the good tidbits of history following it. This week, I have a two special requests of the active USBP folks:

Please read the entire definition and visit the Honor First & Esprit de Corps page, and
Take a moment to consider how you can help employee perceptions of being valued by the organization change for the positive.

The USBP is solid at responding to an employee crisis with the Chaplains, Peer Support and Honor Guard. When employees have an emergency, we leap into action for their benefit and graciously accept assistance from our friends at the Border Patrol Foundation. Where great opportunities for improvement for the USBP exists, is in valuing the workforce on a day by day basis (not just during a crisis). Doing better for the workforce on a daily basis is what will have impacts on attrition/retention, FEVS and mission sustainment/accomplishment. Things like communication (listen better and share information better), employee friendly policies, appropriate recognition (my personal favorite), fair discipline, etc...

I would say that the best place to start, is with your direct reports. It doesn’t matter their title or paygrade. The importance of feeling valued doesn’t go away with age, paygrade or title.

Esprit de Corps

The workplace climate resulting from a combination of organizational pride and employee morale.

Organizational pride is the positive feeling experienced by employees from being part of a meaningful team that is rich in history, tradition and culture.
Employee morale is the feeling experienced by employees based in part on their perception of:
- Being valued by the organization,
- Fairly compensated, and
- Performing meaningful work.

USBP History
1904

On March 9, 1904, the Governor of Arizona wrote a letter of recommendation for Jeff Milton (1861-1947) to be a Chinese Immigrant Inspector. The letter gives a brief outline of Milton’s various jobs.
- As per documents that supported Jeff Milton's retirement in 1932, he was neither a Border Patrol Inspector nor a member of the Border Patrol. He was a well-known law enforcement officer in the El Paso District, which encompasses modern day Tucson, El Paso and Big Bend Sectors. It is thought that the leaders of the newly formed Border Patrol used Jeff Milton's rugged independence as an example for new inspectors to follow. This led to him mistakenly being considered the first Border Patrol Inspector.?

1925

On March 11, 1925, the Detroit District Director wrote a memo requesting that Border Patrol Inspectors be “designated special agents of the Prohibition Department”. Interesting in this memo:
- Three “Patrol Inspectors in Charge” are mentioned. That title would be changed to “Chief Patrol Inspector” with the implementation of General Order 61 in 1926.
- Also with the implementation of General Order 61, Ruel Davenport, one of the three mentioned Patrol Inspectors in Charge, would become one of the first two Chiefs of the Border Patrol.
- On March 29, 1926, about a year after this memo, General Order 63 would be implemented giving Border Patrol Inspectors and Immigrant Inspectors clear authority to enforce laws other than immigration laws.

1928

This document describes a March 7, 1928, gunfight that occurred between Border Patrol Inspectors and alcohol smugglers in San Elizardio, Texas. Interestingly, Border Patrol Inspector Bogel, who wrote the initial report stated that no smugglers were shot/injured while failing to mention that he had suffered a grazing bullet wound to his face.

1935

On March 7, 1935, Border Patrol Inspector Charles Askins wrote a memo concerning a national rifle and pistol shooting competition that occurred every August or September at Camp Perry, Ohio. He further wrote about his progress at developing a course of fire for Border Patrol Inspectors and a handbook, Manual of the Pistol.
- On a related note, the Border Patrol would form a team and compete at Camp Perry later that year. "…in its first appearance in the National Pistol Match finished fourth with a score only three points below the three teams tied for first place." See this document (pg 6). See the HonorFirst USBP History page for more information on the beginnings of the USBP Pistol Team.

1949

By the late 1940, discussions of moving the USBP Training School (Academy) away from the Camp Chigas location were occurring. This March 7, 1949 document discusses moving the USBP Training School to Santa Fe, New Mexico.
- The document mentions that the USBP Training School’s director, Harlon Carter, helped design the buildings. By this time, Carter would have been in the USBP only 13 years (since 1936) and had already been the Chief Patrol Inspector of the New Orleans Sub-district (1942-1944). He would later become the 8th Chief of the Border Patrol (1950-1957), and the first “Chief” to have graduated from the “Academy”.
- It should be noted, if still standing, the building housing the El Paso Sub-district 2 headquarters and station and, the first national training school (Camp Chigas) would be located in the United States by 10-20 feet. See this document. However, there is a former U.S. Border Patrol building that is still standing that is located in Mexico. It is the Comisión Internacional de Límites y Aguas building. See this document.

Newton-Azrak Award Actions
(Follow this link to see examples of USBP employees Upholding Honor First)

An organization’s values are codified in its awards system. Recognizing the achievements, service and heroism of employees is important. It is critical for those in positions of leadership to value the workforce. Awards are a fundamental manner for leaders to demonstrate appreciation to the workforce for upholding the organizational values. – U.S. Border Patrol Honorary Awards

Adam R. Ruiz
Supervisory Border Patrol Agent
Rio Grande Valley Sector
Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Adam R. Ruiz was recognized for demonstrating unusual courage during an extremely dangerous and stressful situation. On March 11, 2008, while performing his assigned duties on U.S. Highway 281 near San Manuel, Texas, Agent Ruiz encountered a vehicle traveling northbound he suspected of being involved in human trafficking. After initiating a vehicle stop, he observed the vehicle pull over on the shoulder and into the grass off the highway. The driver absconded and the vehicle continued to travel forward and back onto the highway.

While taking immediate action to prevent the vehicle from rolling into the oncoming traffic, Agent Ruiz discovered the brakes were not functioning and maneuvered the vehicle off the northbound lanes, avoiding a major collision with other traffic including a semi-tractor trailer. After finally bringing the vehicle to a stop, he discovered that there were 10 undocumented aliens in the vehicle. With the assistance of Rio Grande Valley CBP air assets, the driver was located.

USBP Fallen
As of December 8, 2021, the U.S. Border Patrol has suffered 151* fallen.
Titles

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

Joe R. White - He is recognized as officially fallen by the U.S. Border Patrol but his name is not inscribed on the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial.
John Charles Gigax - His name is inscribed on the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial (see link) but he is not recognized as officially fallen by the U.S. Border Patrol. His EOW was November 7, 1999.

Philip D. Strobridge
Date of Birth:                     December 28, 1904
Entered on Duty:               October 1, 1930
Title:                                   Patrol Inspector
End of Watch:                    March 7, 1933

Details:
In the early morning hours of March 2, 1933, Patrol Inspectors Philip D. Strobridge and Harold W. Brown were injured when the government automobile in which they were riding left the highway in a fog near Fallbrook, California. The officers, accompanied by Senior Patrol Inspector Irvin J. Curtis of Elsinore, California, had been detailed to Los Angeles to appear before a Federal Grand Jury and to work information relative to smuggling in aircraft.

The three officers left Los Angeles at approximately 11:00 p.m., enroute to Elsinore and then on to Chula Vista. They encountered heavy fog, which hampered the driver's vision and prompted very slow driving. Near Puente, they came upon an accident on the highway in which several persons had been severely injured. The Patrol Inspectors spent about 45 minutes at the scene of the wreck directing traffic to keep the road clear and to prevent further accidents.They were relieved on arrival of Los Angeles County Deputy Sheriffs and resumed their return trip to Elsinore where Inspector Curtis lived.

Reports of the accident revealed the government automobile left the highway on an "S" turn and crashed into a concrete abutment. Patrol Inspector Strobridge suffered a frontal fracture of the skull. He was transported to the U.S. Naval Hospital, San Diego, where he passed away at 1:35 p.m. on March 7, 1933.

Anthony L. Oneto
Date of Birth:                      December 29, 1916
Entered on Duty:                October 24, 1940
Title:                                   Patrol Inspector
End of Watch:                    March 11, 1947

Details:
On March 11, 1947, while conducting routine traffic checks near Indio, California, Patrol Inspectors Anthony L. Oneto and John L. Fouquette arrested Carlos Ochoa Romero in the act of hauling four smuggled aliens. The aliens were placed in the back seat of the government car and Ochoa was instructed to drive his car to the Border Patrol Office. After a short time, Ochoa stopped his car, which was being followed by the government car, walked back, said something about his car stalling, pulled a.32 caliber pistol from his pocket, and began firing at the officers. Inspector Oneto was struck four times in the head and died instantly. Patrol Inspector Fouquette was wounded but returned the fire, wounding Ochoa, who escaped in the darkness. In spite of this activity, Inspector Fouquette was able to retain custody of the smuggled aliens until help arrived.

Victor C. Ochoa
Date of Birth:                March 16, 1947
Entered on Duty:          June 17, 1978
Title:                             Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch:               March 11, 1983

Details:
On March 11, 1983, Victor E. Ochoa, a U.S. Border Patrol Agent stationed in the Tucson Sector, Casa Grande Station, was involved in a fatal traffic accident when the van in which he was transporting prisoners collided with a dump truck at the intersection of Ralston and Papago Roads about 22 miles southwest of Maricopa in Pinal County. The accident occurred at approximately 10:45 a.m. He was transported by helicopter to St. Joseph's Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, where he died of multiple head injuries sustained in the accident.

Miguel J. Maldonado
Date of Birth:                September 29, 1952
Entered on Duty:          May 12, 1980
Title:                             Senior Patrol Agent
End of Watch:              March 10, 1997

Details:
At approximately 11:24 a.m., Senior Patrol Agent Miguel Maldonado of the Port Isabel Station was performing sensor response patrol duties alone in a Service vehicle, traveling on Alton Gloor Road in Brownsville, Texas. An eyewitness stated that Agent Maldonado’s vehicle turned left across the centerline of the road, sliding across the roadway and into the ditch adjacent to the road. It then struck an earthen berm with its passenger side tires and rolled over one complete turn, landing on its wheels. At the time of the accident, Agent Maldonado was driving in an emergency response mode with his vehicle’s emergency lights and siren activated.

Supervisory Patrol Agent Herbert J. Monette of the Brownsville Station was notified of the accident and arrived at the scene soon afterward as EMS personnel were trying to save Agent Maldonado. They then decided to transport Agent Maldonado to Brownsville Medical Center, where emergency room personnel also tried to save him. But about 12:15 p.m., Agent Monette was informed that Agent Maldonado had died from wounds sustained in the accident. The likely cause of the accident was the wet condition of the roadway.

Agent Maldonado began his Border Patrol career with the Laredo Sector. He was reassigned in August 1988 as Senior Border Patrol Agent at the Port Isabel Station under the McAllen Sector, the position he held at the time of his death.

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This Week in USBP History, 03/27-04/02

This Week in USBP History, 03/20-03/26

This Week in USBP History, 03/13-03/19

This Week in USBP History, 03/06-03/12

Clifford Gill

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