This Week in USBP History, Vol. 114

November 5 - November 11

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INTRO

Good morning!
 
Welcome to another This Week in USBP History!  ​

Honor First
Bridging the Interpretive Gap

Introduction
The motto "Honor First" has long stood as the cornerstone of the United States Border Patrol's ethos, encapsulating a commitment to integrity, honesty, and unwavering adherence to ethical principles. However, its application can unveil a nuanced landscape, especially when faced with real-world scenarios that challenge conventional norms of authority and regulations.

In last week's blog on whistleblowing within the Border Patrol, we touched upon the essence of "Honor First". The discourse that followed, enriched by readers' feedback, hinted at interpretive challenges the motto may encounter within the operational framework of the Border Patrol.

This narrative seeks to delve deeper into "Honor First", examining its interpretive breadth and alignment with actions taken under the guise of honor, especially when those actions traverse the boundaries of established authority and regulations. Through this lens, we aim to foster a clearer understanding of "Honor First" within the Border Patrol, and envision how a shared interpretation of this motto can further instill a culture of accountability and uphold the true spirit of honor that underpins the Border Patrol's mission.

Historical Context of "Honor First"
The motto "Honor First" has been integral to the U.S. Border Patrol since around 1926, originating in the El Paso District. It encapsulated a commitment to integrity and duty among early Border Patrol Inspectors. Officially trademarked by the Border Patrol on August 17, 2010, "Honor First" continues to symbolize the agency's dedication to upholding law and maintaining high ethical standards, forming a backdrop against which the interpretive challenges and varied understanding of the motto can be explored in modern-day operations.

This is the earliest documented mention of "Honor First" as it appears in the 1927 Annual Report of the Commissioner General of Immigration. This report covers the fiscal year from July 1926 to June 1927.

The Interpretive Challenge
The motto "Honor First" sets a high standard of integrity and ethical conduct within the Border Patrol. However, its interpretation can be complex in real-world scenarios. For instance, an agent mandated to stay in a less active area may feel the honorable action is to move to a busier area to apprehend more individuals crossing the border illegally. Similarly, leaders might face dilemmas when the honorable action, as perceived, clashes with established regulations, like in cases of promotions or procurement.

Moreover, there's a challenge when individuals broaden or narrow definitions of laws and regulations to align with what they believe is the honorable course of action, such as in cases of Home-to-Work vehicle usage.

The lack of a universally accepted definition of "Honor First" could contribute to these interpretive challenges, where individuals act based on personal interpretations of honor, potentially leading to actions diverging from established authority or regulations.

These scenarios underscore the need for a clear, shared understanding of "Honor First" to ensure alignment between individual actions and organizational expectations, fostering a culture of accountability and adherence to the law.

​Implications and Pathways Towards a Shared Understanding
The interpretive challenges surrounding "Honor First" have significant implications on whistleblowing and accountability within the Border Patrol. Without a clear, shared understanding of "Honor First", individuals may act on personal interpretations, potentially leading to actions that diverge from established authority or regulations. Whistleblowing, in this context, could serve as a mechanism for individuals to voice concerns over actions they perceive as contrary to the principles of "Honor First" or established regulations, promoting a culture of accountability.

A pivotal challenge lies in the lap of leadership to define "Honor First" clearly and provide open communication and clarity to the workforce. A well-articulated definition from leadership can help in aligning individual and organizational interpretations of "Honor First", thereby promoting a culture of adherence to established authority and regulations. It's important to clarify that advocating for a shared understanding of "Honor First" is not a call for blind followership, but rather a call for a well-informed, shared ethos that guides decision-making and actions within the Border Patrol.

Moving towards a shared understanding of "Honor First" is crucial. Educational initiatives and training programs could play a pivotal role in fostering this shared understanding, helping to mitigate instances of well-intentioned but rule-bending or rule-breaking actions. Additionally, policy recommendations and strategies could be explored to reinforce the "Honor First" motto, ensuring it continues to guide the Border Patrol’s dedication to truth, justice, and organizational integrity.

Engaging in discussions, revisiting and clarifying the motto, and promoting a culture of open communication can help bridge the interpretive gap surrounding "Honor First", ensuring that it remains a beacon of integrity and professionalism within the Border Patrol.

Reflecting on a past chapter from the IDS system, this slide aimed to underscore the value of compliance within the ranks. However, it was met with a wave of sarcasm from agents coining the phrase "Obedience First." This echoes the delicate balance between compliance and the principle of "Honor First," a continuous narrative that shapes our understanding of duty, accountability, and professionalism in the Border Patrol.

Conclusion
The motto "Honor First" is a cornerstone of the United States Border Patrol's legacy, embodying integrity and duty. However, varied interpretations can lead to actions diverging from established norms. It's a leadership challenge to foster a shared understanding of "Honor First", which in turn, enhances organizational pride and employee morale. A clear, shared ethos not only aligns individual actions with organizational goals but also cultivates a culture of accountability and openness. By addressing the interpretive challenges surrounding "Honor First" and promoting a shared understanding, the Border Patrol can continue to uphold its esteemed legacy of integrity and excellence in service to the nation.

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This week on "This Week in USBP History," we unearth the foundational layers of the Border Patrol's storied past. Starting in 1918, we highlight Frank Berkshire's seminal proposal that set in motion the Border Patrol's formation. We then proudly stride alongside the Border Patrol agents of 1924 as they showcased their new uniforms in El Paso's Armistice Day Parade, riding high on horses borrowed from the Seventh Cavalry. By 1931, we pay tribute to the remarkable Jeff Milton, an embodiment of dedication, marking his service transition. The journey continues through 1940 with strategic expansions and culminates in 1998, as the Border Patrol solidifies its identity through the standardization of its symbols and uniform decorum. These moments and many more paint the rich tapestry of bravery and service that defines the Border Patrol.

There are no Newton-Azrak Award action anniversaries this week. However, some Newton-Azrak Award recipients do not have a date associated with their actions. Such is the case with Senior Patrol Agent Theo D. Hudson, who is highlighted this week.

During this week, we solemnly remember two of our fallen on the anniversaries of their deaths: Border Patrol Agent John Charles Gigax who tragically lost his life in an automobile accident on November 7, 1999, and Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Anibal A. Perez who was declared to have fallen in the line of duty on November 5, 2021. While some, like Patrol Inspector Garvis Field Harrell and Agent Gigax, lack official recognition from the Customs and Border Protection or the U.S. Border Patrol, HonorFirst.com respectfully acknowledges and honors their sacrifices alongside those of Border Patrol Pilot Howard H. Gay. Our heartfelt remembrance extends to all who have valiantly served and faced the ultimate sacrifice.

Enjoy and have a great week!

​Cliff
P.S. - As an open and continuous invitation to current and former USBP employees, I am always accepting photos to post in the USBP Photo Galleries and in the Upholding Honor First pages. I sure would appreciate you visiting those pages and sending me anything that you think I could post (just send them to [email protected]). As always, make sure to explore all of the hyperlinks to the documents and pages. Finally, please forward this blog to whomever you think may enjoy it.

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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 employee 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.

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THROWBACK PHOTO OF THE WEEK

Dawn's Early Light
​A Piper's Prelude

As the first rays of sunlight heralded the start of a new day, a Border Patrol bagpiper perched atop a patrol horse captured a moment of tranquility before the change-of-command ceremony for Chief Patrol Agent Jeffrey Calhoon. This early morning tableau, set against the quiet promise of dawn, speaks to the solemn anticipation of the day's event, with traditions old and new waiting to greet the horizon.

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DOCUMENTS AND EVENTS

1918

• On November 8, 1918, future Chief and Father of the Border Patrol, Frank Berkshire (1870-1934) submitted his final proposal for the creation of the Border Patrol which was then sent to the Department of Labor for approval.  In this proposal, Berkshire was instructed to submit absolute minimums.  He proposed a force of 264 Border Patrolmen for the southern border which, would absorb all Mounted Watchmen.  
  • This proposal was approved by the Acting Secretary on November 12, 1918 (see the second page and the time stamps).  However, implementation wouldn't occur until 1924 after several years of interdepartmental meetings and once funding was received (pg 240).

1924

• On November 11th, 1924, a month prior to the issuance of General Order No. 42, the El Paso Border Patrol Sub-District participated in the City of El Paso’s Annual Armistice Day Parade in their new uniforms and riding on horses borrowed from the Seventh Cavalry at Fort Bliss. The U.S. Border Patrol’s participation in the parade was highlighted in many newspapers across the southern border and a few major cities across the country. The picture shown was posted in many of those publications highlighting the new U.S. Border Patrol.
  • ​​​​From - HONOR FIRST:  The Story of the United States Border Patrol - Volume I by Joseph Banco

1931

• On December 1, 1913, Jeff Milton (1861-1947) was promoted/converted to an Immigration Inspector and reassigned to Fairbanks, Arizona. He remained in this position until officially transferred to Tombstone, Arizona, on November 10, 1931, where he retired on June 30, 1932 at the age of 71. A few years earlier, when asked if Jeff Milton should continue working for the Immigration and Nationalization Service or be forced to retire, Assistant Commissioner General George J. Harris (1876-1941) stated,
  • He is simply a wonder when it comes to physical endurance, activity, and value to the Service. All of his life he has been an outdoor man, a Texas Ranger, Chief of Police, Customs officer, etc. He is a fearless, active, resourceful man with a host of friends ever ready to give him information or otherwise assist him. He is invaluable to this Service, and barring unforeseen accidents or illnesses, is likely to continue so right up to the maximum age of 70.
  • From - HONOR FIRST:  The Story of the United States Border Patrol - Volume I by Joseph Banco

1940

• On November 8, 1940, both the Grand Forks and Spokane Districts sent memorandums to the Central Office (INS HQ) requesting new construction for sub-district (sector) headquarters. The Grand Forks request included diagrams of the proposed facility.  The Spokane District request was signed by the Chief Patrol Inspectors of the Bonners Ferry and Havre Sub-districts. 

​1998

• On November 5, 1998, the U.S. Army Institute of Heraldry finalized the specification sheets for the USBP flag and USBP Pennant.  
• On November 6, 1998, Chief of the Border Patrol Gustavo De La Vina (1939-2009), signed a memo​ providing clarity concerning the U.S. Border Patrol Uniform.  The memo addressed items such as:
  • The leather jacket,
  • Wearing federal and civilian military awards,
  • Service stars, and
  • The proper wear of rank insignia.

U.S. Border Patrol Flag

U.S. Border Patrol Pennant

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NEWTON-AZRAK AWARD ​ACTION ANNIVERSARIES

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

The USBP Newton-Azrak Award Scroll

There are no Newton-Azrak Award action anniversaries this week. However, some Newton-Azrak Award recipients do not have a date associated with their actions. Such is the case with Senior Patrol Agent Theo D. Hudson, who is highlighted this week.

​
1992

Theo D. Hudson 
Senior Patrol Agent 
Tucson Sector
Senior Patrol Agent Theo D. Hudson designed and developed a “situation board” for tracking and documenting narcotic and undocumented alien entries into the United States.  This system has been directly linked to the detection of three major air smuggling routes through southeastern Arizona, the seizure of numerous tons of marijuana, and the apprehension of hundreds of undocumented aliens and their smugglers. 

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U.S. BORDER PATROL FALLEN ANNIVERSARIES

U.S. Border Patrol Badge with a Mourning Band

As of March 6, 2023 the U.S. Border Patrol has suffered 156* fallen.
Titles

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

The following names hold a distinguished position, as they have made the ultimate sacrifice in their unwavering commitment to uphold the oath each officer took to protect and defend the United States of America.

The facts concerning each officer are presented with minimal editing to preserve the "language of the day" found in the original reports, providing readers with a sense of historical context.

In compliance with the Privacy Act of 1974, the cause of death for employees who lost their lives in the line of duty due to exposure to lethal illnesses will not be disclosed.

​* Please note that although the circumstances surrounding their deaths met the criteria for Line-of-Duty Deaths at the time, Patrol Inspector Garvis Field Harrell and Border Patrol Agent John Charles Gigax are not officially recognized as fallen by either the Customs and Border Protection or the U.S. Border Patrol. Additionally, despite Border Patrol Pilot Howard H. Gay losing his life in the action that earned him the Newton-Azrak Award, his death is not officially recognized either. Nonetheless, HonorFirst.com respectfully recognizes and includes Inspector Harrell and Agent Gigax among those honored as having fallen in the line of duty.

1999

John Charles Gigax
Date of Birth:                   June 1, 1972
Entered on Duty:             March 17, 1997
Title:                                  Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch:                  November 7, 1999
 
Details:
Border Patrol Agent John Gigax was killed in an automobile crash while he was travelling from a temporary assignment in Washington, DC.

Agent Gigax, who was stationed in Laredo, Texas, was driving on I-95, near Doswell, when his department Jeep Cherokee veered off the road and struck the rear of a car carrier parked on the shoulder in Hanover County, Virginia. The Jeep's momentum caused it go over the cab of truck, landing head-first on the pavement. The Jeep broke apart upon impact with the ground, killing Agent Gigax instantly.

Agent Gigax had served with the United States Border Patrol for three years. He was survived by his wife and parents.

​Gravesite


2021

Anibal A. Perez
Entered on Duty:                    June 26, 2006
Title:                                         Supervisory Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch:                         November 5, 2021

Details:
Agent Perez entered on duty on June 26, 2006, as part of the 625th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. At the time of his passing, he was assigned to the Ajo Station in the Tucson Sector, Arizona. The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who determined that this death occurred in the line of duty.  He is survived by his wife Fawna; children: Isabella, Andre, and Milan; parents: Anibal and Dora; and sister: Tara.

Cremated

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