This Week in USBP History

This Week in USBP History, 12/26-01/01

12/26/2021

All,

I hope you’re having a great holiday season. I also hope you enjoy receiving these emails.

Ray and I are always striving to make HonorFirst.com a better site for the thousands of people who visit it each month. Especially, for the USBP applicants and, current and former agents/inspectors. As an open and continuous favor/requests, will you take a little time to visit the HonorFirst Photo Galleries and the the pages under Upholding Honor First? If you have any photographs or pictures of USBP related awards, please send them to me. I really want to grow these pages. Additionally, we really depend upon the active employees to keep the site current. Please let other active folks know that we’d love to post their photographs and awards here.

Finally, this week is the anniversary of the action for the most recent Newton-Azrak Recipient, Agent Michael Linder. I only saw his award pop up on social media. For the active folks again, please let me know whenever a new Newton-Azrak Award recipient is recognized so I can keep the page up to date and highlight the incredible works of the Patrol’s employees!

Thank you!

Enjoy this week’s update and have a happy New Year!

USBP History
“Organizational pride is the positive feeling experienced by employees from being part of a meaningful team that is rich in history, tradition and culture.” Honor First and Esprit De Corps

1910

On December 31, 1910, Frank Berkshire (Father of the Border Patrol and the third person to be Chief of the Border Patrol) wrote a memo to the Commissioner-General concerning the posting of a new civil service announcement for the position of “mounted inspector”. Here is the announcement.

1927

On December 27, 1927, two Border Patrol Inspectors engaged in a brief gunfight with approximately six alcohol smugglers. After an exchange of about four shots, the smugglers abandoned their load of alcohol which was seized. No injuries were reported. See the Border Patrol Inspector’s report here.
On December 30, 1927, see the report of two Border Patrol Inspectors engaged in a brief gunfight with an alcohol smuggler. The smuggler was apparently wounded. Two aspect of the report stand out:
- “This report will indicate how liquor smugglers could very easily be shot from the rear without any reflection upon the officers doing the shooting.”
- “We captured 24 pints of tequila and six pints of American Straight Whiskey. Also one mouse-colored overcoat ad one Oxford shoe, left foot.”
This undated list of uniform venders is believed to be from 1927.

1930

This undated map of the El Paso District contains tons of historic information for modern day Tucson, El Paso and Big Bend sectors.

1933

On December 27, 1933, Border Patrol Inspectors Mosely, Smith and Walthall engaged in a gunfight with smugglers Jose Estrada, Ramon Rice and Fidel Ortega near Cordova Island in El Paso, Texas. During the exchange of gunfire, Inspector Walthall and smuggler Jose Estrada were killed and, Inspector Smith and smugglers Ramon Rice and Fidel Ortega were wounded. Please see the following historic documents that are related to the incident:
- El Paso Sub-District, Chief Patrol Inspector Horsley’s report of the shooing.
- Diagram of the shooting
- Sworn Statement of Border Patrol Inspector Louis A. Smith
- Sworn Statement of Border Patrol Inspector Curtis D. Mosely
- Sworn Statement of smuggler Ramon Rico
- Sworn Statement of Maria Estrada de Lopez, mother of Jose Estrada, who was caught and admitted to tampering with evidence
- Sworn Statement of Carlotta Montes, girlfriend of Jose Estrada
- Sworn Statement of Eulalia Gasca, girlfriend of Ramon Rice

1938

These five pages of sketches and notes were found at the National Archives surrounded by documents from 1938. The documents appears to be the notes concerning updating the USBP uniform and includes insignia and “Ernie” associating the silver bar with a “jackass”. Most importantly is on page five which is believed to be the earliest sketch of what would become the U.S. Border Patrol Patch. See the HonorFirst History Page for more information.

1944

On December 27, 1944, longtime El Paso District Director Grover Wilmoth wrote a memo to INS HQ concerning arguments for and against consolidation of the Customs Border Patrol with the Immigration Border Patrol, and for and against a consolidated Border Patrol. His closing paragraph is – “I believe the arguments I have set forth against the consolidation of the Customs Border Patrol with the Immigration Border Patrol will apply as reasons against a consolidation of the both agencies under either the Justice or the Treasury Department.”
- Of course, the USBP would be incorporated with the U.S. Customs Service some 59 years later in 2003 when this public law renamed the Customs to CBP and assigned the U.S. Border Patrol to it (see page 186).
On December 29, 1944, El Paso District Director Grover Wilmoth wrote a memo to Assistant Commissioner for Alien Control Willard Kelly (Chief of the Border Patrol 1933-1943) concerning the “Proposed consolidation of the Border Patrols”. His last paragraph was:
- On the whole, a reconsideration of the entire subject after the lapse of several years inclines me to agree with Mr. Hudson that each Service should maintain its own separate patrol. On the other hand, if there must be a consolidation, there is no doubt in my mind that the consolidated patrol would best operate in the Immigration Service, especially in view of our larger volume of apprehensions, and what I consider to be our better training methods. If the patrols are to be maintained separately I would suggest that there be a conference of responsible officials of the Customs Service and our Service and the Bureau of the Budget, to work out a plan of operation that will prevent conflict such as have occurred in the past.

Newton-Azrak Award Actions
(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

1999
Mark M. Jones
Border Patrol Agent
McAllen Sector
Sevin K. Neufner
Border Patrol Agent
McAllen Sector

On December 30, 1998, Border Patrol Agents Mark M. Jones and Sevin Neufner were assigned boat patrol duties in the McAllen area of responsibility. While patrolling and area known for alien and narcotic smuggling activities, Agent Neufner, using night vision equipment, observed what appeared to be an individual in distress in the middle of the river. He informed his partner, Agent Jones, who was operating the boat and directed him to the person, who was struggling to stay afloat. While attempting to close the distance between the boat and the person, Agent Neufner observed him slip beneath the surface for several seconds and then reappear still struggling to stay afloat. Upon reaching this person, Agent Neufner observed him go underwater for a second time and acting instinctively, jumped into the river and grasped him by his shoulders, rotating his body to a position where his face was out of the water. Agent Jones assisted his partner by throwing in a line and pulling Agent Neufner and the person into the boat. Once safe inside the boat, the person began coughing out water he had swallowed and regained consciousness.

2021
Michael G. Linder - photo
Border Patrol Agent
New Orleans, LA

On December 31, 2020, while off duty, Agent Linder witnessed a vehicle skid to a stop after impacting a highway center-divider at high speed. Agent Linder immediately stopped and ran to the scene to render aid. Upon arrival at the vehicle, Agent Linder found it teetering precariously on the divider, still running, and with the engine compartment smoldering. Without regard for his own safety, Agent Linder took charge of the scene, supervising rescue effort and personally extracting the single male occupant from the burning vehicle. Agent Linder directed efforts to call 911 and extinguish the fire. Agent Linder's quick, decisive, and selfless actions ensured that the driver lived to fully recover from this harrowing event. Agent Linder's actions reflect great credit upon himself, New Orleans Sector, and the United States Border Patrol.

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.

1933
Bert G. Walthall
Date of Birth: February 27, 1900
Entered on Duty: July 31, 1931
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: December 27, 1933
Historical documents of the shooting - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Details:
On the evening of December 27, 1933, Patrol Inspectors Bert G. Walthall, Louis A. Smith, and Curtis D. Mosely were patrolling the international boundary near Cordova Island at El Paso, Texas. Cordova Island is not in fact an island, but Mexican territory left on the north side of the Rio Grande River when the river changed its course. The boundary here was an imaginary line and a person could step across from one country to another.

At about 8:45 p.m., the officers noticed two men cross the line with sacks on their backs and depart in a waiting automobile. The officers attempted to stop the car by blowing their horn but the smugglers only increased their speed. After a chase of a couple of blocks, the patrol car overtook the smugglers, who pulled over to the side of the road. Before the patrol car could be stopped, it had arrived alongside the smugglers' car, about ten feet to the left of it. Inspector Mosely was driving, Inspector Walthall was sitting beside him, and Inspector Smith was in the back seat. When the patrol car stopped, Officers Walthall and Smith alighted from the right side. They were met by a blast of rifle fire from the smugglers that instantly killed Inspector Walthall and wounded Inspector Smith. Inspector Mosely had gotten out of the car on the left side and opened fire on the smugglers, whose car was then in motion. Inspector Mosely continued shooting with his rifle and pistol until his weapons were empty and then turned his attention to his fellow officers.

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

1940
George E. Pringle
Date of Birth: August 24, 1896
Entered on Duty: June 5, 1936
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: December 28, 1940

Details:
During the evening of December 25, 1940, Patrol Inspector George E. Pringle was working alone near Parker, Arizona. He was engaged in conversation with a Special Agent for the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, when he indicated he was going to follow a car that had just passed. The vehicle was known to both men as belonging to a group of aliens suspected of illegal activities in connection with the Parker Dam.

Inspector Pringle was next observed driving south on Parker Road. Two witnesses indicated the government vehicle being driven by Inspector Pringle veered toward the center of the road and swerved to the right off the roadway overturning several times. Inspector Pringle sustained multiple injuries including contusions of the upper frontal region of the skull and a fracture at the base of the skull. He died of injuries received in the accident on December 28, 1940.

Subsequent investigation revealed that the accident occurred as a result of a blow out of the right front tire that was caused by the tire passing over a broken bottle in the roadway.

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This Week in USBP History, 12/19-12/25

12/19/2021

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USBP History
“Organizational pride is the positive feeling experienced by employees from being part of a meaningful team that is rich in history, tradition and culture.” - Honor First and Esprit De Corps

1908

Although written about 16 years before the creation of the Border Patrol, this request for an extension of leave without pay contains two names of Border Patrol significance. On December 20, 1908, Jeff Milton was on annual leave and requested an extension without pay. The memo was to be route through channels to the Secretary of Labor but was approved by Frank Berkshire who would become the Father of the Border Patrol and the third person to be Chief of the Border Patrol.
- It should be noted, as per documents that supported Jeff Milton's retirement in 1932, he neither had been a Border Patrol Inspector nor a member of the Border Patrol. However, 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. Concerning a first Border Patrol Inspector, evidence indicates that there was not a "first" Border Patrol Inspector that hirings were conducted simultaneously throughout the nation.

1927

On December 21, 1927, three Border Patrol Inspectors were involved in a close-quarters gunfight with four alcohol smugglers in El Paso, Texas. This document which contains several cover memos and sworn statements, describes the encounter where one smuggler was killed, two incapacitated with strikes to the head and one apprehended without injury. Concerning the action, Acting Commissioner-General (and former “Chief” of the Border Patrol) George Harris wrote:
- The Bureau is satisfied that the shooting was justified in every way and the officers involved are hereby commended for their good judgement, coolness and self-restraint under most trying conditions.

1934

Earliest known reference to create a Border Patrol Academy
- On December 22, 1934, Chief of the Border Patrol Willard Kelly wrote a memo to the Commissioner of the Immigration and Naturalization Service. The memo is significant in that it demonstrates that the Border Patrol did not have a national training school and it identifies that the training plan developed by the El Paso District was, “… extensive, the subjects well chosen, and the plan of instruction excellent.”
- Later that same day (December 22, 1934), under the direction of the Commissioner, Chief Kelly sent a memo to all of the border districts (except for the El Paso District). The memo shared the El Paso District training plan, requested all other districts to explain how they trained new inspectors and invited them to give suggestions and comments.
- It should be noted, 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.

Newton-Azrak Award Actions
(Also see 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

No Newton-Azrak Award anniversaries for the week.

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.

1928

Robert H. Lobdell
Date of Birth: May 15, 1898
Entered on Duty: June 16, 1928
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: December 25, 1928

Details:
Patrol Inspector Lobdell was shot and killed instantly on the night of December 25, 1928, near Roseau, Minnesota, by an individual who was suspected of being an alien entering the United States illegally. Inspector Lobdell was shot while he was attempting to get the individual into the patrol car for transportation to Warroad, Minnesota. The murderer was apprehended the following day, but he denied his guilt and steadfastly refused to make any statement that would reveal his past history. He was later convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment in the state penitentiary at Stillwater, Minnesota. Reportedly, he subsequently corresponded with the judge of the court in which he was tried, confessing that he had killed Patrol Inspector Lobdell.
As per this document, his wife received $52.50 per month upon his death.

2004
George R. DeBates
Date of Birth: November 19, 1972
Entered on Duty: April 25, 1999
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: December 19, 2004

Details:
On December 19, 2004, Agent George R. DeBates was involved in a single-vehicle accident while on patrol near Pisinimo, Arizona. He died as a result of his injuries.

Agent DeBates was working on a camp detail while assigned to the Casa Grande Station. Agent DeBates is the fourth Department of Homeland Security employee to die in the line of duty since the Department was created in March 2003.

Originally, from Wisconsin, Agent DeBates was a graduate of the 403rd session of the Border Patrol Academy. A four-year veteran of the Border Patrol, Agent DeBates was assigned to the Casa Grande Station, on detail to the Ajo Station.

2019
Luis O. Peña Jr.
Date of Birth: July 16, 1977
Entered on Duty: January 27, 2003
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: December 23, 2019

Details:
On December 23, 2019, Border Patrol Agent Luis O. Peña Jr. succumbed to complications related to significant injuries he received from a vehicle accident (roll over) on the Tohono O’odham Nation on October 18, 2007. BPA Peña was medically retired on October 8, 2010.

Agent Peña entered on duty with the United States Border Patrol on January 27, 2003, as a member of the 538th session of the Border Patrol Academy. He was assigned to the Casa Grande Border Patrol Station in the Tucson Sector following his graduation. Agent Peña served with the United States Border Patrol for over seven years.

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This Week in USBP History, 12/12-12/18

12/12/2021

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Pictures Wanted!

With FORBPO’s help, Ray and I are in a middle of a push to add photos to the HonorFirst Photo Galleries and Upholding Honor First (to show the good works of the current and former workforce). If you have photos that you would like to have displayed in the HonorFirst Photo Galleries, send them my way and let me know from which decade they come. If you have something that I can post in Upholding Honor First, also send it my way. A little more detail on the Upholding Honor First section, even though there are more sections for the USBP Honorary Awards, I hope to receive a far more awards and recognitions to place in the “Other Significant Recognition Recipients” section.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Before we get to the history, feel free to forward a link to this page or use its contents. I only ask that you give HonorFirst.com due credit.

Gift Ideas
I'm good at pre-mid-1950's flashes of USBP history, but Joe writes books! His books are the most accurate and detailed USBP history available:

Get yourself an early Christmas present or a gift for the special current or former Border Patrol Agent in your life...
For clarification - I receive no benefit from plugging Joe's books. I do it because I think they're great!

On December 12, 1929, the Commissioner of Prohibition sent a request to the Commissioner-General of Immigration asking for a list of all employees conducting “immigration border patrol” work. The response to that request, included in this document, is the earliest, most complete roster of Border Patrol employees known to exist.

1930

On December 13, 1930, in El Paso, Texas, three Border Patrol Inspectors encountered three alcohol smugglers. Upon seeing the Border Patrol Inspectors, the smugglers abandoned their load of alcohol and retreated across the river to Mexico. Once in Mexico, the smugglers fired on the Inspectors with a pistol and a rifle. The Border Patrol Inspectors fired back. In total, approximately 35 rounds were exchanged with no injuries being reported. See this cover memo and sworn statement.

1944

On December 14, 1944, El Paso Sector Chief Patrol Inspector McBee sent his boss, El Paso District Director Wilmoth, a memo describing the toxic relationship between the Customs Border Patrol and the Immigration Border Patrol. That poor relationship and lack of coordination was evident by this quote, “A number of clashes, some of them resulting in an exchange of shots, have taken place between officers of the two patrols in the El Paso Sector in the past several years.”

Newton-Azrak Award Actions
(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

2004
James P. Epling
Border Patrol Agent
Yuma Sector
Posthumously Awarded
Border Patrol Agent James P. Epling was honored posthumously for his courage and bravery in rescuing a female alien in distress in the swift cold waters of the Colorado River and attempting to apprehend a group of illegal aliens along the riverbanks. On the evening of December 16, 2003, Agent Epling was assigned to the Yuma Border Patrol Sector in Yuma, Arizona. He was working near Andrade, California, when he was last seen attempting to apprehend a group of illegal aliens along the banks of the Colorado River. Moments prior to his disappearance, Agent Epling entered the swift, cold waters of the Colorado River to rescue a female alien in distress. Once the woman was safe, Agent Epling pursued four other individuals he observed running south toward Mexico along the riverbank in an attempt to escape arrest. This was the last time Agent Epling was seen alive. Agent Epling’s body was recovered from the river after a three-day search.

2011
Brian A. Terry - photo
Border Patrol Agent
Tucson Sector/BORTAC
Posthumously Awarded
On December 14, 2010, Border Patrol Agent Brian A. Terry was conducting operations as a member of the Border Patrol Tactical Unit (BORTAC) in the Nogales, Arizona area of operations. Agent Terry’s team encountered five individuals, at least two of whom were armed with rifles, in the “Peck Well” area near Rio Rico, Arizona. During the attempt to arrest these individuals, the agents and suspects fired shots. Agent Terry was mortally wounded during the exchange of gunfire and succumbed to his injuries on December 15, 2010.

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.

1924
Frank N. Clark
Date of Birth: January 4, 1879
Entered on Duty: August 5, 1924
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: December 13, 1924

Details:
While patrolling in company with another officer near Cordova Island, El Paso, Texas, on the evening of December 13, 1924, Patrol Inspector Clark was shot and killed by smuggler's spotters. They had concealed themselves at a strategic point on the American side of the international boundary line for the purpose of warning and protecting the smugglers should the presence of officers be detected. When the smugglers were challenged by the Patrol Inspectors, the spotters opened fire from ambush, and one of the shots hit Patrol Inspector Clark. His death was instantaneous. Other officers quickly took positions in concealment surrounding the scene of the action and remained there through the night. They found sacks containing illegal liquor, and they took into custody a Mexican family found on the scene searching the premises in the early morning. One of these Mexicans, Eulalio Aguilar, was subsequently indicted on charge of murder, convicted and given a 10- year sentence.

1927
Franklin P. Wood
Date of Birth: September 22, 1894
Entered on Duty: March 11, 1926
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: December 15, 1927

Details:
Patrol Inspector Franklin P. Wood stationed at Sibley, Michigan, disappeared in the early morning of December 15, 1927. On the Detroit River near Wyandotte, Michigan, under cover of darkness, Patrol Inspectors Wood, James W. Oliver, and Chief Patrol Inspector Ivan A. Hall patrolled in search of smugglers expected in the area. Two boats containing contraband liquor had been seized and were being guarded when Inspector Wood left to pursue another boat operating in the vicinity of Wyandotte. He left in pursuit of one boat loaded with aliens, while his fellow officers pursued another. His wrecked boat, rammed by the smugglers, was found on the river sometime after Patrol Inspector Wood was last seen. Patrol Inspector Wood either drowned or was killed by the smugglers and thrown into the river. His body was never found.


1950
Richard D. Clarke
Date of Birth: December 6, 1926
Entered on Duty: February 23, 1949
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: December 18, 1950

Details:
At about 1:00 p.m. on December 18, 1950, Patrol Inspector Richard D. Clarke and his teammate, Patrol Inspector Ralph L. Trantor, took Eulalio Cordero, an illegal alien, into custody in south El Paso. They were bringing him to headquarters by automobile for further questioning when the alien suddenly stabbed Inspector Clarke in the heart. His death was instantaneous. The alien then seized Inspector Trantor's gun. Patrol Inspector Trantor slammed on the car's brakes, held on to the gun and threw himself into the back seat where he grappled with the alien and succeeded in holding him until police officers arrived. During the struggle, Trantor's gun was discharged once, the bullet passing through a car seat. Inspector Trantor was badly bitten on the face and arms.

The incident began as a routine immigration procedure. Inspector Clarke questioned Cordero on a street in El Paso, Texas. First claiming to be a citizen of the United States, he later admitted he was an illegal alien. Cordero was charged with murder.

1996
Michael W. Barnes
Date of Birth: April 7, 1951
Entered on Duty: March 14, 1976
Title:     Patrol Agent in Charge
End of Watch: December 12, 1996

Details:
On December 12, 1996, about 4:00 p.m., Border Patrol Agents were working on a trail on the Chittum Ranch in Carrizo Springs, Texas, assisted by a Del Rio Sector pilot. They spotted a group of about 13 illegal aliens, who ran when the agents approached them. Agents Barnes apprehended five of the aliens and turned them over to Agent Tapia. He began trying to apprehend the remainder of the group. The pilot spotted the group running along a creek bottom and was guiding agents toward the area. Agent Barnes was within about 50 yards of them when the pilot stated over the radio that Agent Barnes had gone down. He radioed Agent Barnes, but there was no response. When he notified the other agents in the area of the situation, they started making their way to assist him.

About 4:32 p.m., Agent Tapia found Agent Barnes face down. Agents determined that he was not breathing and had no pulse. They immediately started performing CPR. Pilot Snyder radioed for an ambulance and a helicopter. Agent Barnes was placed in an INS Bronco and transported to the ambulance. About 5:38 p.m., a helicopter took off with Agents Barnes and Guzman for a hospital in San Antonio, arriving at 6:13 p.m. At 6:25p.m., a doctor advised Agent Barnes had died. The medical examiner’s office determined he had suffered a massive heart attack. Agent Barnes was born in San Antonio and grew up in Pearsall, Texas. He served as a Supervisor, Assistant Patrol Agent in Charge and Patrol Agent in Charge at the Carrizo Springs Station.


2003
James P. Epling
Date of Birth:                March 9, 1979
Entered on Duty:          January 13, 2003
Title:                             Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch:               December 16, 2003

Details:
On December 16, 2003, at approximately 7:00 p.m., Border Patrol Agent James P. Epling was reported missing after responding to sensor activity along the Colorado River near Andrade, California. Agent Epling had apprehended two Chinese illegal immigrants and had rescued another from drowning in the Colorado River. He was attempting to apprehend other illegal immigrants along the river when he suddenly disappeared.
A massive rescue operation by Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue teams, as well as multiple local, State, Federal, tribal, and foreign agencies, was immediately initiated. The response and coordinated rescue effort continued for three days. On December 19, 2003, at approximately 7:15 p.m., with the aid of an underwater camera, Agent Epling’s body was located 29 feet deep in the Colorado River. He was approximately 200 yards from where it was believed he initially disappeared. The investigation revealed that Agent Epling had died as a result of accidental drowning.

Agent Epling was 24 years old and was a graduate of the 537th session of the Border Patrol Academy. On January 28, 2004, his son, James Paul Epling II, was born.

2010
Brian A. Terry
Date of Birth                 August 11, 1970
Entered on Duty:          July 23, 2007
Title:                             Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch:               December 15, 2010

Details:
On December 14, 2010, Agent Brian A. Terry was shot while conducting a Border Patrol Tactical Unit (BORTAC) operation in the area of ‘Peck Wells’. This area is near Rio Rico, Arizona and about 15 miles north of Nogales, Arizona. At 11:15pm, Agent Terry and his team spotted a group of individuals approaching their position. An encounter ensued and gunfire was exchanged. Agent Terry succumbed to his injuries on December 15, 2010.
Agent Terry was a native of Flat Rock, Michigan. He served our country proudly with the United States Marine Corps and continued his service as a Police Officer with the cities of Ecorse and Lincoln Park prior to joining the United States Border Patrol. Agent Terry was a member of the 699th Session of the Border Patrol Academy assigned to the Naco Border Patrol Station within the Tucson Sector.

Agent Terry is survived by his mother, father, stepmother, stepfather, brother and two sisters. The Naco Border Patrol Station was later renamed in his honor.

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This Week in USBP History, 12/05-12/11

12/5/2021

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On December 11, 1924, General Order 42, Uniforms – Border Patrol was implemented, laying the foundation of the uniform that exists today.
- Some of the interesting items in that 4-page order:
  - All Patrol Inspectors wore silver hat insignia, collar discs, shoulder ornaments and buttons. Patrol Inspectors in Charge (now called CPAs) wore the aforementioned in gold.
  - All items were controlled by HQ.
  - The color of the uniform was forest green.
  - Two hats authorized, the Pershing hat and the campaign hat. Campaign hats were considered a summer variant.
  - Pants were riding crops with leather wraps called puttees (not boots)
- 1926-1936 General Order 42 would be amended many times:
  - 1926 –
    - Boots first authorized
  - 1928 –
    - First official rank insignia (fabric) for Senior Patrol Inspectors, Chief Patrol Inspectors and Assistant Superintendents
    - Fabric controlled by HQ
    - All metal on the uniform must match based on rank. Oxidized for BPIs and SPIs and gilt for CPIs and above.
    - First time-in-service insignia (fabric). Fabric controlled by HQ
    - Cross strap worn over left shoulder
    - White shirt authorized under jackets for dress occasions
    - Insignia discontinued on the campaign hat.
  - 1929 –
    - Long overcoat authorized
  - 1930 –
    - Pith helmet authorized

1927

On December 9, 1927, two separate gunfights occurred in El Paso between Border Patrol Inspectors and smugglers as described in these documents. One gunfight lasted seconds while the other between 30-40 minutes. No injuries were reported in either gunfight. Interestingly, the 30-40 minute gunfight was believed to be between Border Patrol Inspectors and at least one member of the Mexican Fiscal Guards and infers that the local Mexican authorities were involved in alcohol smuggling.

1929

This document contains a cover memo and three sworn statements concerning a gunfight that occurred on December 6, 1929. The cover memo is from Chief Patrol Inspector Horsley (El Paso Sub-district) to his boss, District Director Wilmoth (El Paso District). The three sworn statements were taken from the Border Patrol Inspectors that had engaged in the gunfight.

1931

On December 7 , 1931, Assistant Superintendent Antonio Bonazzi wrote a memo to his boss, the Commission of Immigration for the Montreal District of the competitive shooting score of the Border Patrol Inspectors assigned to the district. The Commission of Immigration for the Montreal District forwarded the memo to his boss, the Commissioner-General of the Bureau of Immigration. The memo is interesting for several reasons:
- It shows that the USBP as long valued marksmanship, and
- Shows three levels of Immigration Service hierarchy in a single memo,
  - Assistant Superintendent - highest ranking USBP uniformed position and USBP leader over the Chief Patrol Inspectors in a district
  - Commissioner of Immigration – The head of a district. Also, known as a District Director in some districts.
  - Commissioner-General – The head of the agency, the Bureau of Immigration.

1933

This incredibly informative collection of documents from December 1933, shows the locations and manpower of the nine-year old USBP

1937

On December 7, 1937, El Paso District Director Grover Wilmoth wrote a memo to three of his subordinates, the Chief Patrol Inspectors of the Tucson, El Paso and Alpine Sub-districts. Evidently, Border Patrol Inspectors in the district had doubts concerning their authority to stop vehicles. Wilmoth provided a quote from a federal case from the Southern District of Texas that shows the support from the judiciary for the USBP to stop vehicles. It’s a long quote, below is the last sentence:
- The law has a practical purpose, and it must have a practical application, and if you limit the right of search to the point of entry, it would be a foolish construction.

1940

On December 5, 1940, a memo was written describing the urgent need for space for the Rouses Point Sub-district headquarters. Evidently, the proposed improvements in this memo from April 1, 1935 were not implemented.

USBP Fallen

As of December 5, 2021, the U.S. Border Patrol has suffered 150* fallen.
Titles

3 Mounted Watchmen fell before 1924 and are carried as Border Patrol fallen
48 Border Patrol Inspectors fell between 1924 and 1970
98 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.

1933
Doyne C. Melton
Date of Birth:                     January 17, 1902
Entered on Duty:                October 29, 1927
Title:                                    Patrol Inspector
End of Watch:                     December 7, 1933
Details:
Patrol Inspector Doyne C. Melton was shot and killed in a battle with Mexican smugglers at El Paso, on December 7, 1933. Six Patrol Inspectors were moving up in the darkness on seventeen Mexican smugglers who were wading across the river with packs of liquor. One of three smugglers acting as spotters who had preceded the main body of the smugglers over the river, concealed beneath a platform on the American side, opened hostilities by shooting Inspector Melton. The opening shot was fired without warning and before any challenge had been given. Inspector Melton was shot through the heart, dying instantly. The bitterness of the fight was evidenced by the fact that in addition to the slaying of Inspector Melton, four smugglers were killed and another was wounded.

1968
James G. Burns
Date of Birth:                July 31, 1924
Entered on Duty:          June 8, 1955
Title:                             Senior Patrol Inspector
End of Watch:               December 8, 1968
Details:
Official reports covering the death of Senior Patrol Inspector James G. Burns indicated he was performing line watch operations, looking for evidence of illegal aliens in a river bottom near Calexico, California, on Sunday, December 8, 1968. He was searching places of concealment in heavy undergrowth, which was exceptionally strenuous activity and required considerable physical exertion. At 6:30 a.m., he began to suffer pains in the chest area, which prompted him to immediately return to the office. He was taken home by another officer and was then conveyed to the El Centro Community Hospital by his wife. He passed away at 8:25 a.m., less than two hours after being stricken. Death was caused by an occlusion of the left coronary artery due to arteriosclerosis.

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