This Week in USBP History
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This reflects courage, sacrifice, and tradition. We remember fallen Agents Ricardo Zarate and Lawrence B. Pierce, whose service and sacrifice remain part of the Patrol’s enduring legacy.
We also recognize extraordinary acts of valor by Newton-Azrak Award recipients, including agents who faced gunfire, rescued victims from a burning vehicle, and fought to save a fellow agent from a deadly assault. The week also marks important milestones in Border Patrol history, including early guidance on leadership and funeral honors, the Northern Border Intern Program, and the 2010 trademark registration of “Honor First.”
Together, these anniversaries preserve the stories of those who shaped the United States Border Patrol and carried forward its proud traditions.
We also recognize extraordinary acts of valor by Newton-Azrak Award recipients, including agents who faced gunfire, rescued victims from a burning vehicle, and fought to save a fellow agent from a deadly assault. The week also marks important milestones in Border Patrol history, including early guidance on leadership and funeral honors, the Northern Border Intern Program, and the 2010 trademark registration of “Honor First.”
Together, these anniversaries preserve the stories of those who shaped the United States Border Patrol and carried forward its proud traditions.
THIS WEEK'S USBP ANNIVERSARIES AND MILESTONES
August 16 - August 22
August 16
On August 16, 1954, Chief of the Border Patrol Harlon B. Carter wrote a memo as summarize by Joe Banco:
Newton-Azrak Award action anniversary
Atzel R. Chavez - presentation 1, presentation 2
Border Patrol Agent
Laredo Sector
Leonardo Figueras
Border Patrol Agent
Laredo Sector
On August 16, 2017, in the Zacate Creek area of Laredo, Texas, Border Patrol Agents Leonardo Figueras and Atzel Chavez faced a deadly assault during the apprehension of a group of illegal entrants. During the arrest, Edgar Garrido-Miranda violently attacked Agent Figueras, holding him underwater in an attempt to kill him. Trapped beneath the surface, Agent Figueras fought desperately for his life and called out for assistance.
Without hesitation, Agent Chavez entered the creek and engaged Garrido-Miranda despite the grave danger. In the struggle that followed, Chavez struck and grappled with the assailant, and together the two agents subdued him and completed the arrest. Agent Figueras sustained injuries during the attack but survived because of their combined determination and courage. Garrido-Miranda was later convicted in federal court of assaulting a federal officer and sentenced to 60 months in prison.
During this event, both agents faced grave danger while performing beyond the call of duty. Border Patrol Agent Leonardo Figueras and Border Patrol Agent Atzel Chavez’s actions brought great credit upon themselves and the United States Border Patrol.
Line of Duty Death anniversary
Ricardo Zarate
Date of Birth: November 12, 1987
Entered on Duty: February 12, 2009
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: August 16, 2021
Details:
Agent Zarate began his service on February 12, 2009, as a member of the 854th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. He later graduated with the 922nd Session of the Academy. At the time of his passing, he was assigned to the McAllen Station in the Rio Grande Valley Sector in Texas. 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: Crystal; children: Payton and Ezekiel; parents : Benito and Diana; and brothers: Benito Jr., Isaac, and Rodolfo.
Gravesite
August 17
Another significant directive that Commissioner Swing introduced to the U.S. Border Patrol was a Procedure for Border Patrol Participation in Funeral Services, formally issued on August 17,1954. This milestone document to properly honor our deceased, including Fallen, was prepared by Chief A.S. Hudson of the Central Office. With the directive, procedures to be followed during funerals for members of the U.S. Border Patrol were memorialized for the first time. These included the first formal references to an Honor Guard or Guard of Honor, and a Border Patrol Chaplain.
Newton-Azrak Award action anniversary
Paul Conover
Border Patrol Agent
Marfa Sector
Stanley U. Spencer
Senior Patrol Agent
Marfa Sector
On August 17, 1982, Border Patrol Agents Paul E. Conover and Stanley U. Spencer displayed exceptional bravery and devotion to duty while pursuing a notorious murder suspect known as “El Gato,” who was attempting entry from Mexico. This dangerous criminal, so named because of an injured eye, was believed to be armed and accompanied by another armed individual.
At approximately 5:15 p.m., Agents Conover and Spencer, both experienced agents, were conducting a search for the suspect near a remote river crossing approximately five miles east of Redford, Texas. The area was desolate, rugged, and heavily covered with tall, thick brush. The agents, aware of the dangers and familiar with the area, had been advised by their colleagues Ray Harris and Kevin McDonald about the presence of pit bulls at the campsite, which would likely alert the suspects to their approach. Despite this, the agents observed two individuals crossing the river by boat and moved in to approach the subjects.
As they reached a clearing in the brush, the situation escalated quickly. One of the subjects, later identified as “El Gato,” was seated in a hammock with one foot on the ground and opened fire on the agents with a .30 caliber M-1 carbine rifle. Agent Conover was immediately struck in both legs, causing him to fall to the ground. Despite his serious injuries, Agent Conover exhibited extraordinary courage, returning fire with his 12-gauge shotgun. In a moment of intense firefight, one of Conover’s rounds narrowly missed the assailant, passing between his legs.
During the exchange, Agent Conover was struck again, this time in the lower back, but he continued to return fire, ultimately wounding the assailant. El Gato attempted to flee back into Mexico but was captured not far from the campsite by Mel Heck and another PRS ASU agent, who found him with a .45 pistol within reach. Despite the dangerous circumstances, El Gato was taken into custody and later sentenced to federal prison for ten years. His brother, who attempted to break him out of prison, was also apprehended and incarcerated.
Throughout the ordeal, Senior Patrol Agent Stanley U. Spencer returned fire, provided cover, and quickly administered first aid to Conover, actions that undoubtedly contributed to saving his partner’s life. A Customs Patrol Officer who happened to be in the area also played a crucial role in saving Conover’s life during the chaotic scene.
Agent Conover’s challenges didn’t end there. After receiving first aid at the scene, he was placed in an ambulance for transportation to a hospital in Alpine, Texas. Unfortunately, the ambulance broke down during the journey, forcing Conover to be transferred to a Border Patrol unit for part of the trip. Once stabilized in Alpine, he was transported via ground ambulance to El Paso, Texas—a three-hour journey. Incredibly, this ambulance also broke down, necessitating yet another transfer. Despite these challenges, Agent Conover eventually arrived at the medical facility in El Paso, where he was hospitalized for eight weeks due to the life-threatening injuries he sustained.
In the days following the shootout, Agent Ray Harris returned to the campsite and discovered one of the pit bulls still chained up and abandoned. Over several days, he provided water and food until the animal’s trust was earned. Harris eventually rescued the dog and rehomed it, bringing a small measure of humanity and solace after the violent encounter.
Agent Conover’s exemplary inner strength and courage throughout this traumatic event reflect the highest traditions of the U.S. Border Patrol. Both he and Agent Spencer were later awarded the Newton-Azrak Award for their exceptional devotion to duty in the face of grave danger.
This event serves as a powerful reminder of the risks and sacrifices made by Border Patrol agents in the line of duty and stands as a testament to the bravery and resilience of Agents Conover and Spencer.
Honor First note - Agent Conover was the USBP's first recipient of the Purple Cross. See the Purple Cross page for his citation which provides greater details.
Line of Duty Death anniversary
Lawrence B. Pierce
Date of Birth September 2, 1946
Entered on Duty: June 23, 1980
Title: Supervisory Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: August 17, 1995
Details:
On August 17, 1995, while off-duty in Chula Vista, California, Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Lawrence B. Pierce witnessed an altercation where an innocent man was stabbed to death. Agent Pierce chased down the killer, identified himself as a law enforcement officer, and while attempting to disarm the killer he suffered wounds that resulted in his tragic death. The killer was apprehended, convicted of murder, and was sentenced to 39 years to life in prison.
Agent Pierce entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol on June 23, 1980, as a member of the 137th session of the Border Patrol Academy, and was assigned to the Campo Station in the San Diego Sector. Agent Pierce was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and had served with the United States Border Patrol for over 15 years.
Gravesite
On August 17, 2010, Joe Banco's work came to fruition as the phrase "Honor First" received a trademark.
August 18
In the 1920 Annual Report of the Commissioner General of Immigration, it was noted that because of a budget deficit, 32 Mounted Watchmen were furloughed on August 18, 1919, for the balance of the fiscal year and that all were either reassigned to other positions or reinstated as vacancies opened by the beginning of the fiscal year on July 1, 1920.
On August 18, 1928, documents describe that two Patrol Inspectors intercepted a vehicle that had just illegally entered the United States at the Tres Jackals Crossing near Faben, Texas. This report involves a Patrol Inspector jumping on the running board of a moving vehicle, the suspect attempting to gain control of the Inspector's rifle then his pistol, and a mysterious bullet hole in the vehicle's tire.
On August 18, 1953, Chief of the Border Patrol Harlon B. Carter (1913-1991), wrote a Memorandum for the Record concerning Border Patrol uniforms. The memo begins, "Mr. W. F. Kelly has informed me that on his recent trip to California with the Attorney General, and others, one of the very few unfavorable impressions received was that relating to the dress of our officers."
Newton-Azrak Award action anniversary
Gary L. Ortega Jr.
Border Patrol Agent
El Centro Sector
Border Patrol Agent Gary L. Ortega Jr. was recognized for his selfless dedication to duty to ensure the survival of injured and helpless people. On August 18, 2007, on his return to the Indio Border Patrol Station at the conclusion of his shift at the checkpoint on Highway 86 near Westmoreland, California, Agent Ortega encountered a station wagon that had been involved in a single vehicle accident and had rolled into the median and caught on fire. As he approached the vehicle, one injured woman was near the vehicle on her hands and knees, and he could see two children and an elderly man in the rear seat of the vehicle. Agent Ortega assisted the injured woman away from the burning car and then attempt to gain entry through the doors that were jammed shut. He extricated the two children through the rear hatch and returned to help the elderly man who was trapped inside. As the flames spread from the engine compartment to the passenger compartment, Agent Ortega unsuccessfully attempted to break out the windows. Disregarding his own personal safety and without hesitation, he re-entered the rear of the vehicle, and used his collapsible steel baton to pry the seat enough to allow him to pull the elderly man to safety as the entire vehicle had become engulfed in flames.
August 19
On August 19, 1924, Spokane District Director Alfred Hampton (1861-1942) wrote a cover memo and included 6-page "Instructions and Suggestions for the Assistance and Guidance of Border Patrol Inspectors". Hampton states, "...considerable doubt and uncertainty exists as to the authority vested in the border patrol officers and the scope of their duties."
Newton-Azrak Award action anniversary
Benjamin M. Batchelder
Border Patrol Agent
Swanton Sector
Stephen A. Brooks
Border Patrol Agent
Swanton Sector
Martin G. Hewson
Border Patrol Agent
Swanton Sector
John C. Pfeifer - photo
Patrol Agent In Charge
Swanton Sector
On August 19, 1997, Carl Drega, a heavily armed and dangerous man, went on a murderous rampage in New Hampshire and Vermont, killing four people, including two New Hampshire State Troopers, a local judge, and a newspaper editor. The chaos culminated in a gun battle involving multiple law enforcement agencies.
Patrol Agent in Charge John C. Pfeifer and Border Patrol Agents Benjamin M. Batchelder, Stephen A. Brooks, and Martin G. Hewson, all from the Swanton Sector, played crucial roles in the confrontation with Drega. The agents, along with other officers, responded to a report of Drega’s stolen police cruiser being located in Vermont. As they approached the scene on foot, Drega, who had set up an ambush, opened fire, critically wounding Pfeifer and another trooper.
Despite sustaining life-threatening injuries, Pfeifer and the team displayed remarkable courage and determination under fire. Pfeifer sought cover, but was out of reach of immediate help. Agents Batchelder, Brooks, and Hewson, along with other officers, undertook a perilous rescue mission, driving a Jeep to shield them from gunfire as they attempted to extract Pfeifer. As they reached Pfeifer, Drega resumed firing, forcing the rescuers to take cover and engage the suspect.
In a final heroic effort, Brooks and a state trooper initiated a frontal assault on Drega’s position. Despite the overwhelming danger, the two officers engaged Drega directly, fatally wounding him and ending the deadly standoff. Their actions, alongside those of Batchelder and Hewson, undoubtedly saved lives and brought a violent and tragic series of events to an end.
For their extraordinary bravery and decisive actions in the face of mortal danger, Patrol Agent in Charge John C. Pfeifer, and Border Patrol Agents Benjamin M. Batchelder, Stephen A. Brooks, and Martin G. Hewson were awarded the Newton-Azrak Award.
August 20
Today marks a quiet day in USBP history.
August 21
On August 21, 1931, Jacksonville District Director Thomas V. Kirk (1862-1947) wrote a memo to the Commissioner-General, reporting the shooting scores for the following employees:
August 21, 2008, “Traditionally Patrol Agents/Inspectors begin their careers on the southern Border. In August of 2008, Class 803 became the first class since 1950 with trainees/interns reporting to the Northern U.S. Border. The graduates would be part of the Northern Border Intern Program.”
August 22
Today marks a quiet day in USBP history.
On August 16, 1954, Chief of the Border Patrol Harlon B. Carter wrote a memo as summarize by Joe Banco:
- The reorganization also impacted the U.S. Border Patrol, beginning with a major shakeup within the Chief Patrol Inspectors. In August 1954, Special Assistant to the Commissioner Partridge (who liked to be referred to as “General” Partridge) had a discussion with Chief Carter about shaking up the Chief Patrol Inspectors, moving the majority of them around, encouraging others to retire, and making some promotions within the ranks. “General” Partridge also wanted to evaluate supervisory promotions and have a say in selection of Assistant Chief Patrol Inspectors and Senior Patrol Inspectors in the field. Chief Carter made recommendations for the Chief Patrol Inspectors, with some moves, but not a complete shake-up. Chief Carter also convinced “General” Partridge that the selections for Assistant Chief Patrol Inspectors and Senior Patrol Inspectors should be “initiated in the field and not at the Central Office (Headquarters).” He reasoned with “General” Partridge that “suggestions” could be made, particularly for the Assistant Chief Patrol Inspector positions, but that the Chief Patrol Inspectors should have the last say in who the supervisors in their sectors were. Chief Carter memorialized the discussions and his recommendations in a memorandum.
- From - HONOR FIRST: The Story of the United States Border Patrol - Volume II by Joseph Banco
- Frank H. Partridge (1893-1994)
Newton-Azrak Award action anniversary
Atzel R. Chavez - presentation 1, presentation 2
Border Patrol Agent
Laredo Sector
Leonardo Figueras
Border Patrol Agent
Laredo Sector
On August 16, 2017, in the Zacate Creek area of Laredo, Texas, Border Patrol Agents Leonardo Figueras and Atzel Chavez faced a deadly assault during the apprehension of a group of illegal entrants. During the arrest, Edgar Garrido-Miranda violently attacked Agent Figueras, holding him underwater in an attempt to kill him. Trapped beneath the surface, Agent Figueras fought desperately for his life and called out for assistance.
Without hesitation, Agent Chavez entered the creek and engaged Garrido-Miranda despite the grave danger. In the struggle that followed, Chavez struck and grappled with the assailant, and together the two agents subdued him and completed the arrest. Agent Figueras sustained injuries during the attack but survived because of their combined determination and courage. Garrido-Miranda was later convicted in federal court of assaulting a federal officer and sentenced to 60 months in prison.
During this event, both agents faced grave danger while performing beyond the call of duty. Border Patrol Agent Leonardo Figueras and Border Patrol Agent Atzel Chavez’s actions brought great credit upon themselves and the United States Border Patrol.
Line of Duty Death anniversary
Ricardo Zarate
Date of Birth: November 12, 1987
Entered on Duty: February 12, 2009
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: August 16, 2021
Details:
Agent Zarate began his service on February 12, 2009, as a member of the 854th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. He later graduated with the 922nd Session of the Academy. At the time of his passing, he was assigned to the McAllen Station in the Rio Grande Valley Sector in Texas. 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: Crystal; children: Payton and Ezekiel; parents : Benito and Diana; and brothers: Benito Jr., Isaac, and Rodolfo.
Gravesite
August 17
Another significant directive that Commissioner Swing introduced to the U.S. Border Patrol was a Procedure for Border Patrol Participation in Funeral Services, formally issued on August 17,1954. This milestone document to properly honor our deceased, including Fallen, was prepared by Chief A.S. Hudson of the Central Office. With the directive, procedures to be followed during funerals for members of the U.S. Border Patrol were memorialized for the first time. These included the first formal references to an Honor Guard or Guard of Honor, and a Border Patrol Chaplain.
- From - HONOR FIRST: The Story of the United States Border Patrol - Volume II by Joseph Banco
- Aubrey Slaughter Hudson (1896-1965)
Newton-Azrak Award action anniversary
Paul Conover
Border Patrol Agent
Marfa Sector
Stanley U. Spencer
Senior Patrol Agent
Marfa Sector
On August 17, 1982, Border Patrol Agents Paul E. Conover and Stanley U. Spencer displayed exceptional bravery and devotion to duty while pursuing a notorious murder suspect known as “El Gato,” who was attempting entry from Mexico. This dangerous criminal, so named because of an injured eye, was believed to be armed and accompanied by another armed individual.
At approximately 5:15 p.m., Agents Conover and Spencer, both experienced agents, were conducting a search for the suspect near a remote river crossing approximately five miles east of Redford, Texas. The area was desolate, rugged, and heavily covered with tall, thick brush. The agents, aware of the dangers and familiar with the area, had been advised by their colleagues Ray Harris and Kevin McDonald about the presence of pit bulls at the campsite, which would likely alert the suspects to their approach. Despite this, the agents observed two individuals crossing the river by boat and moved in to approach the subjects.
As they reached a clearing in the brush, the situation escalated quickly. One of the subjects, later identified as “El Gato,” was seated in a hammock with one foot on the ground and opened fire on the agents with a .30 caliber M-1 carbine rifle. Agent Conover was immediately struck in both legs, causing him to fall to the ground. Despite his serious injuries, Agent Conover exhibited extraordinary courage, returning fire with his 12-gauge shotgun. In a moment of intense firefight, one of Conover’s rounds narrowly missed the assailant, passing between his legs.
During the exchange, Agent Conover was struck again, this time in the lower back, but he continued to return fire, ultimately wounding the assailant. El Gato attempted to flee back into Mexico but was captured not far from the campsite by Mel Heck and another PRS ASU agent, who found him with a .45 pistol within reach. Despite the dangerous circumstances, El Gato was taken into custody and later sentenced to federal prison for ten years. His brother, who attempted to break him out of prison, was also apprehended and incarcerated.
Throughout the ordeal, Senior Patrol Agent Stanley U. Spencer returned fire, provided cover, and quickly administered first aid to Conover, actions that undoubtedly contributed to saving his partner’s life. A Customs Patrol Officer who happened to be in the area also played a crucial role in saving Conover’s life during the chaotic scene.
Agent Conover’s challenges didn’t end there. After receiving first aid at the scene, he was placed in an ambulance for transportation to a hospital in Alpine, Texas. Unfortunately, the ambulance broke down during the journey, forcing Conover to be transferred to a Border Patrol unit for part of the trip. Once stabilized in Alpine, he was transported via ground ambulance to El Paso, Texas—a three-hour journey. Incredibly, this ambulance also broke down, necessitating yet another transfer. Despite these challenges, Agent Conover eventually arrived at the medical facility in El Paso, where he was hospitalized for eight weeks due to the life-threatening injuries he sustained.
In the days following the shootout, Agent Ray Harris returned to the campsite and discovered one of the pit bulls still chained up and abandoned. Over several days, he provided water and food until the animal’s trust was earned. Harris eventually rescued the dog and rehomed it, bringing a small measure of humanity and solace after the violent encounter.
Agent Conover’s exemplary inner strength and courage throughout this traumatic event reflect the highest traditions of the U.S. Border Patrol. Both he and Agent Spencer were later awarded the Newton-Azrak Award for their exceptional devotion to duty in the face of grave danger.
This event serves as a powerful reminder of the risks and sacrifices made by Border Patrol agents in the line of duty and stands as a testament to the bravery and resilience of Agents Conover and Spencer.
Honor First note - Agent Conover was the USBP's first recipient of the Purple Cross. See the Purple Cross page for his citation which provides greater details.
Line of Duty Death anniversary
Lawrence B. Pierce
Date of Birth September 2, 1946
Entered on Duty: June 23, 1980
Title: Supervisory Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: August 17, 1995
Details:
On August 17, 1995, while off-duty in Chula Vista, California, Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Lawrence B. Pierce witnessed an altercation where an innocent man was stabbed to death. Agent Pierce chased down the killer, identified himself as a law enforcement officer, and while attempting to disarm the killer he suffered wounds that resulted in his tragic death. The killer was apprehended, convicted of murder, and was sentenced to 39 years to life in prison.
Agent Pierce entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol on June 23, 1980, as a member of the 137th session of the Border Patrol Academy, and was assigned to the Campo Station in the San Diego Sector. Agent Pierce was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and had served with the United States Border Patrol for over 15 years.
Gravesite
On August 17, 2010, Joe Banco's work came to fruition as the phrase "Honor First" received a trademark.
- I had the privilege of building on Joe's foundation, as I had the trademark renewed on October 7, 2019.
- It wasn’t until August 17, 2010, that the term “Honor First” was trademarked with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office under registration number 3833564. While assigned to U.S. Border Patrol Headquarters, I was tasked by Chief of Staff Robert Lewandowski with the privilege of leading the effort in renewing the trademark for “Honor First,” which was approved on November 11, 2015, and is now valid past the U.S. Border Patrol’s 100th Anniversary in 2024. It is interesting to note that the trademark records the first use of Honor First in commerce as 5-28-1999, reinforcing the limited use of Honor First before the 75th Anniversary.
- From - HONOR FIRST: The Story of the United States Border Patrol - Volume I by Joseph Banco
August 18
In the 1920 Annual Report of the Commissioner General of Immigration, it was noted that because of a budget deficit, 32 Mounted Watchmen were furloughed on August 18, 1919, for the balance of the fiscal year and that all were either reassigned to other positions or reinstated as vacancies opened by the beginning of the fiscal year on July 1, 1920.
- From - HONOR FIRST: The Story of the United States Border Patrol - Volume I by Joseph Banco
On August 18, 1928, documents describe that two Patrol Inspectors intercepted a vehicle that had just illegally entered the United States at the Tres Jackals Crossing near Faben, Texas. This report involves a Patrol Inspector jumping on the running board of a moving vehicle, the suspect attempting to gain control of the Inspector's rifle then his pistol, and a mysterious bullet hole in the vehicle's tire.
- Senior Patrol Inspector Harrison C. Pugh (1897-1982) took the sworn statements,
- Patrol Inspector Roland A, Fisher (1891-?) jumped on the running board of the vehicle to make the arrest,
- Senior Patrol Inspector Lester R. Dillion (1896-1983) was Fisher's partner and aided in the arrest.
On August 18, 1953, Chief of the Border Patrol Harlon B. Carter (1913-1991), wrote a Memorandum for the Record concerning Border Patrol uniforms. The memo begins, "Mr. W. F. Kelly has informed me that on his recent trip to California with the Attorney General, and others, one of the very few unfavorable impressions received was that relating to the dress of our officers."
- W. F. Kelly was Willard F. Kelly (1903-1969) who had been Chief of the Border Patrol 1933-1943.
- The uniforms were most likely the Army Suntan (khaki) uniforms that had been authorized for wear on the Mexican border.
Newton-Azrak Award action anniversary
Gary L. Ortega Jr.
Border Patrol Agent
El Centro Sector
Border Patrol Agent Gary L. Ortega Jr. was recognized for his selfless dedication to duty to ensure the survival of injured and helpless people. On August 18, 2007, on his return to the Indio Border Patrol Station at the conclusion of his shift at the checkpoint on Highway 86 near Westmoreland, California, Agent Ortega encountered a station wagon that had been involved in a single vehicle accident and had rolled into the median and caught on fire. As he approached the vehicle, one injured woman was near the vehicle on her hands and knees, and he could see two children and an elderly man in the rear seat of the vehicle. Agent Ortega assisted the injured woman away from the burning car and then attempt to gain entry through the doors that were jammed shut. He extricated the two children through the rear hatch and returned to help the elderly man who was trapped inside. As the flames spread from the engine compartment to the passenger compartment, Agent Ortega unsuccessfully attempted to break out the windows. Disregarding his own personal safety and without hesitation, he re-entered the rear of the vehicle, and used his collapsible steel baton to pry the seat enough to allow him to pull the elderly man to safety as the entire vehicle had become engulfed in flames.
August 19
On August 19, 1924, Spokane District Director Alfred Hampton (1861-1942) wrote a cover memo and included 6-page "Instructions and Suggestions for the Assistance and Guidance of Border Patrol Inspectors". Hampton states, "...considerable doubt and uncertainty exists as to the authority vested in the border patrol officers and the scope of their duties."
Newton-Azrak Award action anniversary
Benjamin M. Batchelder
Border Patrol Agent
Swanton Sector
Stephen A. Brooks
Border Patrol Agent
Swanton Sector
Martin G. Hewson
Border Patrol Agent
Swanton Sector
John C. Pfeifer - photo
Patrol Agent In Charge
Swanton Sector
On August 19, 1997, Carl Drega, a heavily armed and dangerous man, went on a murderous rampage in New Hampshire and Vermont, killing four people, including two New Hampshire State Troopers, a local judge, and a newspaper editor. The chaos culminated in a gun battle involving multiple law enforcement agencies.
Patrol Agent in Charge John C. Pfeifer and Border Patrol Agents Benjamin M. Batchelder, Stephen A. Brooks, and Martin G. Hewson, all from the Swanton Sector, played crucial roles in the confrontation with Drega. The agents, along with other officers, responded to a report of Drega’s stolen police cruiser being located in Vermont. As they approached the scene on foot, Drega, who had set up an ambush, opened fire, critically wounding Pfeifer and another trooper.
Despite sustaining life-threatening injuries, Pfeifer and the team displayed remarkable courage and determination under fire. Pfeifer sought cover, but was out of reach of immediate help. Agents Batchelder, Brooks, and Hewson, along with other officers, undertook a perilous rescue mission, driving a Jeep to shield them from gunfire as they attempted to extract Pfeifer. As they reached Pfeifer, Drega resumed firing, forcing the rescuers to take cover and engage the suspect.
In a final heroic effort, Brooks and a state trooper initiated a frontal assault on Drega’s position. Despite the overwhelming danger, the two officers engaged Drega directly, fatally wounding him and ending the deadly standoff. Their actions, alongside those of Batchelder and Hewson, undoubtedly saved lives and brought a violent and tragic series of events to an end.
For their extraordinary bravery and decisive actions in the face of mortal danger, Patrol Agent in Charge John C. Pfeifer, and Border Patrol Agents Benjamin M. Batchelder, Stephen A. Brooks, and Martin G. Hewson were awarded the Newton-Azrak Award.
August 20
Today marks a quiet day in USBP history.
August 21
On August 21, 1931, Jacksonville District Director Thomas V. Kirk (1862-1947) wrote a memo to the Commissioner-General, reporting the shooting scores for the following employees:
- Patrol Inspector Edwin M. Redmond (1901-1968)
- Patrol Inspector Frank Hornyak (1904-1963)
- Patrol Inspector Robert B. Johnson (1900-1973)
- After diligently researching historic records and Ancestry.com, I am confident that the person that typed the memo made an error with Inspector Johnson's middle initial. It should be a "B", not an "F".
August 21, 2008, “Traditionally Patrol Agents/Inspectors begin their careers on the southern Border. In August of 2008, Class 803 became the first class since 1950 with trainees/interns reporting to the Northern U.S. Border. The graduates would be part of the Northern Border Intern Program.”
- From - HONOR FIRST - United States Border Patrol Centennial Timeline 1924-2024 by Joseph Banco
August 22
Today marks a quiet day in USBP history.
Clifford GillPage author, retired U.S. Border Patrol Assistant Chief and, current U.S. Border Patrol employee advocate.
Read more about Cliff here |
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