This Week in USBP History
Welcome to another This Week in USBP History!
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This week we honor extraordinary courage, solemn anniversaries, and milestones that helped shape the legacy of the Patrol. We reflect on three agents whose lives were tragically lost in the line of duty, Senior Patrol Agents Jefferson L. Barr, Luis A. Aguilar, and Rene B. Garza, whose commitment and sacrifice embody the highest ideals of service.
We also commemorate acts of valor like that of BPA John J. Burgmeier, who risked his life to save others from a house fire while apprehending a murder suspect. Key moments in organizational development are highlighted, including early uniform inventories in 1939, the planning of border fencing in 1956, and the 1993 construction contract for the U.S. Border Patrol Museum. We revisit the Patrol’s expanding presence in national events, such as its role in the 1969 and 1989 presidential inaugurations, and celebrate milestones in representation with the graduation of the first second-generation female agent in 1997.
Each story is a reminder of the Border Patrol’s enduring mission and the people who define its legacy.
We also commemorate acts of valor like that of BPA John J. Burgmeier, who risked his life to save others from a house fire while apprehending a murder suspect. Key moments in organizational development are highlighted, including early uniform inventories in 1939, the planning of border fencing in 1956, and the 1993 construction contract for the U.S. Border Patrol Museum. We revisit the Patrol’s expanding presence in national events, such as its role in the 1969 and 1989 presidential inaugurations, and celebrate milestones in representation with the graduation of the first second-generation female agent in 1997.
Each story is a reminder of the Border Patrol’s enduring mission and the people who define its legacy.
THIS WEEK'S USBP ANNIVERSARIES AND MILESTONES
January 18 - January 24
January 18
On January 18, 1939, the Central Office (HQ) 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.
On January 18, 1956, a memo was addressed to Chief of the Border Patrol Harlon Carter (1913-1991) outlining the border fencing projects that were being planned. There were projects in all four southern border states.
On January 18, 1993, the U.S. Border Patrol Museum Board of Trustees including Don Coppock, Roger Brandemuehl and Henry McCormack signed a contract with Westar Group for the construction of the 10,000 square foot facility. A groundbreaking ceremony was held shortly afterwards.
January 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.
On January 18, 1939, the Central Office (HQ) 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.
On January 18, 1956, a memo was addressed to Chief of the Border Patrol Harlon Carter (1913-1991) outlining the border fencing projects that were being planned. There were projects in all four southern border states.
- It should be noted that Harlon Carter was 8th Chief of the Border Patrol (1950-1957). Further, he was the first Chief to have graduated the Academy having EOD’d on May 16, 1936 and attended an unnumbered session.
On January 18, 1993, the U.S. Border Patrol Museum Board of Trustees including Don Coppock, Roger Brandemuehl and Henry McCormack signed a contract with Westar Group for the construction of the 10,000 square foot facility. A groundbreaking ceremony was held shortly afterwards.
- From - HONOR FIRST: The Story of the United States Border Patrol - Volume Three 1975-1999 by Joseph Banco
January 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.
- From - HONOR FIRST: The Story of the United States Border Patrol - Volume II by Joseph Banco
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.
- From - HONOR FIRST: The Story of the United States Border Patrol - Volume Three 1975-1999 by Joseph Banco
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:
- When General Order 4 (which has not been found) was written in 1922, only one person in the Immigration Service is known to have held a title including the word “Supervisor”. That was Father of the Border Patrol Frank Berkshire (1870-1934) who was the Supervising Inspector of the southern border. Coincidentally, he retired from federal service in 1922 and the position of Supervising Inspector was discontinued. However, he would return to federal service and later become the third person to have been Chief of the Border Patrol in 1932 as the Director of the Canadian Border District.
- In 1929, the only position known to have “Supervisor” in its title was, Supervisor, Border Patrol (Chief of the Border Patrol).
- Therefore, this supplement appears to have been designed to allow the Chief of the Border Patrol to inspect the field without the interference of local leadership.
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.
- From - HONOR FIRST: The Story of the United States Border Patrol - Volume Three 1975-1999 by Joseph Banco
