January 19 - January 25Welcome to another This Week in USBP History! This week we honor the bravery and sacrifice of agents who exemplified courage in the line of duty. On January 19, 1985, Border Patrol Agent John J. Burgmeier III risked his life to save individuals from a burning home in Yuma, Arizona, leading to the arrest of an arson suspect. We also remember Senior Patrol Agent Jefferson L. Barr, tragically killed in 1996 during a narcotics interdiction operation in the Del Rio Sector, and Senior Patrol Agent Luis A. Aguilar, who selflessly gave his life in 2008 to protect a fellow agent from a smuggler in the Yuma Sector. January 20 marks the passing of Senior Patrol Agent Rene B. Garza in 1999 while on horseback patrol in New Mexico’s Skeleton Canyon. This week also highlights historic milestones, such as the first large Border Patrol security deployment at a presidential inauguration in 1969 and the inaugural participation of the Border Patrol Horse Patrol in the 1989 parade. We celebrate the progress of women in the Patrol with Jennifer A. Parra becoming the first second-generation female agent in 1997. Lastly, we remember Border Patrol Agent Aurelio E. Valencia, who tragically died in a vehicle accident on January 25, 1996. Their stories remind us of the unwavering dedication and heroism of those who safeguard our nation’s borders. Cliff P.S. - As an open and continuous invitation to current and former USBP employees, I am always accepting photos to post in the USBP Photo Galleries and in the Upholding Honor First pages. I sure would appreciate you visiting those pages and sending me anything that you think I could post (just send them to [email protected]). As always, make sure to explore all of the hyperlinks to the documents and pages. Finally, please forward this blog to whomever you think may enjoy it. THIS WEEK'S USBP ANNIVERSARIES AND MILESTONESJanuary 19
Newton-Azrak Award action anniversary John J. Burgmeier III - photo, memo Border Patrol Agent Yuma, Arizona On January 19, 1985, while on duty, Border Patrol Agent John J. Burgmeier observed a house engulfed in flames. He reacted by notifying the Border Patrol Radio Operator and requested the Yuma Fire Department. He then proceeded to the front door of the house and encountered a woman who informed him that her mother and son were still in the burning house. Without hesitation, he entered the burning. Smoke filled home and attempted to rescue the individuals. Almost overcome by smoke, he came outside, at which time the woman who he initially encountered pointed out a man nearby and indicated he was the one who started the fire. Agent Burgmeier immediately took the suspect into custody. At this time a second officer appeared, to whom Agent Burgmeier turned over the suspect and again entered the burning house. He courageously reentered the house many times in the attempt to rescue the individuals believed to be inside, until he was so overcome by smoke that he had to be taken to the hospital and treated for smoke inhalation. One of the persons inside the house managed to escape while the other was overcome and died in the blaze. Agent Burgmeier’s valiant efforts resulted in the arrest of an arson/murder suspect and displayed courage beyond that expected in normal line of duty. Line of Duty Death anniversary/ Newton-Azrak Award action anniversary Jefferson L. Barr (1962-1996) Senior Patrol Agent Del Rio Sector Posthumously Awarded Jefferson L. Barr, born on November 16, 1962, joined the Border Patrol on January 19, 1988, dedicating his career to protecting the borders as a Senior Patrol Agent in the Del Rio Sector. His end of watch came on the same date, January 19, but in 1996, marking a tragic end to a dedicated career. On the evening of January 19, 1996, agents from the Eagle Pass Station in the Del Rio Sector had earlier seized 246 pounds of marijuana at the Rio Grande River around 8:30 p.m. Four individuals managed to evade capture by swimming back across the river to Mexico. Later that night, at approximately 10:30 p.m., Senior Patrol Agent Jefferson L. Barr and his partner, Border Patrol Agent Ned Thomas, responded to electronic sensor activity in the same vicinity, about 2 ½ miles downriver from the Eagle Pass Port-of-Entry. They positioned themselves on a trail leading away from the sensor activations, anticipating possible alien foot traffic. Their vigilance paid off when they encountered four individuals carrying bundles of suspected narcotics. Upon being challenged by Agents Barr and Thomas, the subjects dropped their loads. Three of them attempted to flee toward the river, with Agent Thomas engaging one of them. Meanwhile, the fourth subject opened fire on Agent Barr with a .22 caliber revolver, discharging all eight rounds. Tragically, one of these rounds struck Agent Barr in the left shoulder area, inflicting a fatal wound. Despite his mortal injury, Agent Barr managed to return fire, discharging all six rounds from his .357 magnum Service revolver. He succeeded in striking the assailant once. The bullet hit the suspect's left wrist, destroying his wristwatch, and then penetrated his abdominal cavity. Injured but mobile, the suspect managed to reach the river and cross back into Mexico. He was later found suffering from his wounds, received medical treatment, and was taken into custody by Mexican authorities. Another 201 pounds of marijuana were seized during this incident, underscoring the dangers and challenges faced by Border Patrol agents in their efforts to secure the nation's borders. Agent Jefferson L. Barr's service and sacrifice are remembered and honored, his commitment to his duty leaving an indelible mark on the Border Patrol and those who served with him. His gravesite remains a testament to his bravery and dedication to the nation. Line of Duty Death anniversary/ Newton-Azrak Award action anniversary Luis A. Aguilar - photo (1976-2008) Senior Patrol Agent Yuma Sector Posthumously Awarded Senior Patrol Agent Luis A. Aguilar, born on November 26, 1976, joined the Border Patrol on July 21, 2002. His commitment to protecting the nation's borders was evident throughout his service, culminating in a heroic act that cost him his life but saved that of a fellow agent. His end of watch was January 19, 2008. On that fateful day, while performing anti-smuggling duties in the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreational Area as part of the Yuma Station IMPACT Team, Agent Aguilar and his colleague, Agent German Burgoin, were coordinating efforts to apprehend two vehicles suspected of carrying marijuana. These vehicles had illegally crossed from Mexico into the U.S. As the agents were deploying a Controlled Tire Deflation Device (CTDD) to stop one of the vehicles, the driver, later identified as Jesus Navarro-Montes, accelerated and drove directly towards them. In a selfless act, Agent Aguilar yelled for Agent Burgoin to get to safety. While Agent Burgoin managed to climb a highway fence and escape, Agent Aguilar was tragically struck by the vehicle as he attempted to reach a safe location behind some barriers. The impact resulted in severe injuries to Agent Aguilar, who was pronounced dead about 20 minutes later. The driver of the vehicle, Jesus Navarro-Montes, was later convicted and sentenced to life in prison for this heinous act. Agent Aguilar's bravery and quick thinking in the face of imminent danger saved the life of Agent Burgoin. He made the ultimate sacrifice, demonstrating selfless courage and dedication to his duty. His loss is a profound reminder of the risks faced by those who serve to protect the borders. Agent Luis A. Aguilar's service and sacrifice are deeply honored and remembered. His gravesite stands as a testament to his bravery and commitment to his country. January 20 The inauguration of Richard Nixon on January 20, 1969, saw the first large contingent of Patrol Inspectors deployed to provide security for a presidential inauguration, a trend that would be repeated every four years up to the present.
On January 20, 1989, ten members of the U.S. Border Patrol Horse Patrol from the Laredo and McAllen Sectors and their horses would make history and begin a trend for the future by participating in the Presidential Inaugural Parade in Washington, DC, for the inauguration of President George H. Bush. Of interest, the USBP Horse Patrol members held the flags of Texas, the INS, and four U.S. Border Patrol flags as they paraded down Pennsylvania Avenue and in front of the reviewing stand as they were saluted by President Bush.
Line of Duty Death anniversary Rene B. Garza Date of Birth: February 11, 1947 Entered on Duty: March 30, 1975 Title: Senior Patrol Agent End of Watch: January 20, 1999 Details: On January 20, 1999, Senior Patrol Agent Rene B. Garza was conducting surveillance on horseback in Skeleton Canyon, located in the “bootheel” of New Mexico, about 75 miles southwest of Lordsburg. He suffered cardiac arrest and was pronounced dead. According to other Border Patrol Agents, the severity of the illness and the geographical isolation were contributing factors in Agent Garza’s death. Agent Garza was born in south Texas and was a graduate of the Border Patrol’s 107th Academy Class. He had spent his entire Border Patrol career at the Lordsburg Station. Gravesite January 21 On January 21, 1929, the Second Supplement to General Order 4 was issued. It essentially directed that district heads should not meet or accompany supervisors on inspection trips unless specifically requested. This is interesting for a few reasons:
This January 21, 1932 document lists the immigration stations in the Montreal District covering modern day, Houlton, Swanton and Buffalo Sectors. It gives an interesting look at the simple rental spaces that were used as sub-district headquarters. January 22 Today marks a quiet day in USBP history. January 23 Today marks a quiet day in USBP history. January 24 ...the first second-generation female agent to graduate from the U.S. Border Patrol Academy. On January 24, 1997, Jennifer A. Parra of Session 320 had her Border Patrol Agent badge pinned on by her mother, Senior Patrol Agent Hercilia Lopez, of the Fabens Station in El Paso Sector and a member of Session 178, who graduated in August 1985. SPA Lopez had the following to say about the significance of the event, “this shows that women are here to stay. This is a big thing for all women. We’re making our mark, and this second generation is a big step. The family connection did not stop there, as Hercilia Lopez’ husband and Jennifer Parra’s stepfather, Marco Antonio Lopez, is also a Border Patrol Agent at the Ysleta Station.
January 25 Line of Duty Death anniversary Aurelio E. Valencia Date of Birth: November 12, 1963 Entered on Duty: February 28, 1985 Title: Border Patrol Agent End of Watch: January 25, 1996 Details: On January 25, 1996, Border Patrol Agent Aurelio E. Valencia was involved in a vehicle accident on California State Route 78, near Glamis, California. Permanently assigned to the Blythe Station, Agent Valencia was working backup for the Highway 78 checkpoint. As he attempted a U-turn to get behind and investigate a suspected smuggling vehicle parked south of the checkpoint, his Service vehicle was struck broadside by a southbound motorist. Agent Valencia died at the scene from injuries sustained in the accident. Agent Valencia began his career with INS as a student aide at Tucson Sector Headquarters. He was promoted to Clerk two months later. After a short break in service, he entered on duty as an Immigration Detention Officer at Wilcox Station, Tucson Sector, on November 26, 1986. On June 13, 1988, he entered on duty as a Border Patrol Agent at Blythe Station, Yuma Sector, the position he was filling at the time of his death. Gravesite
Comments
|
Clifford GillBlog author, retired U.S. Border Patrol Assistant Chief and, current U.S. Border Patrol employee advocate. Ray HarrisSite founder and owner, former Supervisory Border Patrol Agent and retired Immigration Special Agent. Joseph BancoU.S. Border Patrol historian and retired Deputy Chief Patrol Agent. Archives
February 2025
I prefer that you leave comments. However, if you wish to contact me, please do so by emailing [email protected].
|