U.S. Border Patrol Honor Guard Agent (photo credit - CBP Flickr account)
Updated - November 7, 2025
Unrecognized But Unforgotten
A Historical Commitment to Honor
Reflecting on our rich history, we recall the words of Chief Patrol Inspector Herbert Horsley from June 3, 1929, addressing the parents of fallen Patrol Inspector Benjamin Hill:
These words reflect the early ethos of the U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) and the beginnings of how the organization has sought to honor its fallen. As recognition practices have evolved, the ways we remember those who served have also changed.
- We want you to know that your son's name will go down in Border Patrol history as a martyr to the cause of justice and as an example of fearlessness in the enforcement of the Laws of our Country.
These words reflect the early ethos of the U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) and the beginnings of how the organization has sought to honor its fallen. As recognition practices have evolved, the ways we remember those who served have also changed.
Exploring Recognition and Oversight
Throughout the history of the USBP and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), many agents have given their lives in service. Historical records show, however, that recognition sometimes lagged or was influenced by changing policies—including those reflected in CBP Line of Duty Death Determination and Valor Memorial Directives (PDF).
This page presents a historical record of cases in which recognition came years later, and examines how evolving standards affected those decisions. The stories of individuals such as Patrol Inspector James F. Mankin illustrate how the criteria for memorialization have developed.
Our goal is educational: to document how remembrance has changed over time and to ensure that the service of the fallen is not forgotten. This is not a call for specific policy reform—rather, it is an archival effort to preserve their legacy for future generations.
This page presents a historical record of cases in which recognition came years later, and examines how evolving standards affected those decisions. The stories of individuals such as Patrol Inspector James F. Mankin illustrate how the criteria for memorialization have developed.
Our goal is educational: to document how remembrance has changed over time and to ensure that the service of the fallen is not forgotten. This is not a call for specific policy reform—rather, it is an archival effort to preserve their legacy for future generations.
The Unacknowledged Sacrifices
The Overlooked Heroes of the USBP
Throughout the history of the U.S. Border Patrol, inspectors and agents have given their lives in service to the nation. While most have been formally recognized, historical records show that some recognitions were delayed or reconsidered as agency policies evolved.
This section documents those instances, providing context for how official recognition practices developed and sometimes changed over time. By preserving these accounts, we honor the individuals whose service shaped the legacy of the Border Patrol and deepen our understanding of how remembrance within the agency has matured.
The Mounted Watchmen Paradox
Before the Border Patrol was established in 1924, Mounted Watchmen served under the Immigration Service, patrolling vast stretches of the nation’s borders. Although they predated the Border Patrol, their service is now formally acknowledged as part of its early history, and their names are carried among the Patrol’s honored dead.
The paradox lies in the fact that while the Patrol has chosen to include and honor these predecessors who were never officially part of the Border Patrol, some inspectors and agents who did serve under the Border Patrol’s banner remain unacknowledged as line-of-duty deaths.
This section explores that contrast, how institutional heritage can expand to include those who came before, yet at times leave gaps among those who served within. By examining these differences, we gain insight into how definitions of service, sacrifice, and remembrance have evolved across the Patrol’s history.
Throughout the history of the U.S. Border Patrol, inspectors and agents have given their lives in service to the nation. While most have been formally recognized, historical records show that some recognitions were delayed or reconsidered as agency policies evolved.
This section documents those instances, providing context for how official recognition practices developed and sometimes changed over time. By preserving these accounts, we honor the individuals whose service shaped the legacy of the Border Patrol and deepen our understanding of how remembrance within the agency has matured.
The Mounted Watchmen Paradox
Before the Border Patrol was established in 1924, Mounted Watchmen served under the Immigration Service, patrolling vast stretches of the nation’s borders. Although they predated the Border Patrol, their service is now formally acknowledged as part of its early history, and their names are carried among the Patrol’s honored dead.
The paradox lies in the fact that while the Patrol has chosen to include and honor these predecessors who were never officially part of the Border Patrol, some inspectors and agents who did serve under the Border Patrol’s banner remain unacknowledged as line-of-duty deaths.
This section explores that contrast, how institutional heritage can expand to include those who came before, yet at times leave gaps among those who served within. By examining these differences, we gain insight into how definitions of service, sacrifice, and remembrance have evolved across the Patrol’s history.
Located in the William Jefferson Clinton West Building, formerly known as the Department of Labor Building, this memorial honors the courageous Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) and Immigration Border Patrol (USBP) officers. From approximately 1935-1940, this building served as their headquarters. Congress authorized the memorial in 1936 through H.J. Res. 439, making it the earliest known tribute to the INS. Unveiled as a finished product, the Department of Labor, aware of the impending transfer of the INS to the Department of Justice, chose to honor these heroes before the transition. Situated less than 200 feet from the CBP Valor Memorial in the Ronald Reagan Building, it echoes a continued legacy of bravery and sacrifice.
Stories of the Forgotten Who Were Later Remembered
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The Human Impact of Recognition
Recognition of the fallen carries deep significance for families, colleagues, and the wider Border Patrol community. When recognition is delayed or uncertain, families often experience added grief and a sense of unresolved loss as they work to ensure their loved one’s service is remembered.
These experiences extend beyond individual families; they influence the morale and unity of those who continue to serve. Remembrance, therefore, is more than ceremony, it is an affirmation of shared service and sacrifice that reflects the organization’s enduring values.
Throughout its history, the Border Patrol has sought to preserve the legacy of its fallen, adapting recognition practices as policies, leadership, and circumstances have evolved. Documenting and understanding these changes help ensure that the contributions of inspectors and agents remain a lasting part of the Patrol’s story. Preserving these legacies honors those who served and reaffirms the principles of duty, honor, and remembrance that continue to guide the organization today.
Recognition of the fallen carries deep significance for families, colleagues, and the wider Border Patrol community. When recognition is delayed or uncertain, families often experience added grief and a sense of unresolved loss as they work to ensure their loved one’s service is remembered.
These experiences extend beyond individual families; they influence the morale and unity of those who continue to serve. Remembrance, therefore, is more than ceremony, it is an affirmation of shared service and sacrifice that reflects the organization’s enduring values.
Throughout its history, the Border Patrol has sought to preserve the legacy of its fallen, adapting recognition practices as policies, leadership, and circumstances have evolved. Documenting and understanding these changes help ensure that the contributions of inspectors and agents remain a lasting part of the Patrol’s story. Preserving these legacies honors those who served and reaffirms the principles of duty, honor, and remembrance that continue to guide the organization today.
Addressing the Discrepancies
Throughout the history of the U.S. Border Patrol and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, various factors have shaped how fallen agents are memorialized. While many have received formal recognition, historical records reveal that similar circumstances have sometimes led to differing outcomes in memorial inclusion.
Understanding these differences offers valuable perspective on the evolution of recognition policies and the complexities involved in honoring fallen personnel. In 2021, CBP issued two directives, CBP Line of Duty Death Determination and Valor Memorial Directives (PDF), to establish a standardized process for evaluating eligibility. These policies now provide a consistent framework, though historical application has varied over time.
Understanding these differences offers valuable perspective on the evolution of recognition policies and the complexities involved in honoring fallen personnel. In 2021, CBP issued two directives, CBP Line of Duty Death Determination and Valor Memorial Directives (PDF), to establish a standardized process for evaluating eligibility. These policies now provide a consistent framework, though historical application has varied over time.
Historical Comparisons in Recognition
Agents John Charles Gigax, Jose Daniel Barraza, Jesus De La Ossa, and Thomas J. Williams
Comparing the recognition of fallen agents over different eras helps illustrate how memorial criteria have been interpreted.
Border Patrol Agent John Charles Gigax (1972-1999) lost his life in an automobile crash on November 7, 1999, in Hanover County, Virginia, while on detail in Washington, D.C. Although he was driving a government vehicle at the time, his name has not been included in CBP or Border Patrol memorials. His service, however, is honored on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial through an effort led by Chief Patrol Agent John Montoya.
Border Patrol Agent Jose Daniel Barraza (1987-2016), died in a vehicle accident near Sierra Blanca, Texas, on April 18, 2016, while commuting home after his shift. His name appears on the CBP Valor Memorial. Compared with Agent Gigax’s case, his recognition demonstrates how policy interpretation and memorial inclusion have differed over time.
Senior Patrol Agents Jesus De La Ossa (1965-1998) and Thomas J. Williams (1966-1998) were killed in a collision while traveling on duty during a detail. Their names are included on CBP memorials, reflecting a recognition standard that differed from that applied to Agent Gigax’s similar circumstance.
Together, these cases document how determinations have varied historically and underscore the importance of consistent recognition standards.
Agents John Charles Gigax, Jose Daniel Barraza, Jesus De La Ossa, and Thomas J. Williams
Comparing the recognition of fallen agents over different eras helps illustrate how memorial criteria have been interpreted.
Border Patrol Agent John Charles Gigax (1972-1999) lost his life in an automobile crash on November 7, 1999, in Hanover County, Virginia, while on detail in Washington, D.C. Although he was driving a government vehicle at the time, his name has not been included in CBP or Border Patrol memorials. His service, however, is honored on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial through an effort led by Chief Patrol Agent John Montoya.
Border Patrol Agent Jose Daniel Barraza (1987-2016), died in a vehicle accident near Sierra Blanca, Texas, on April 18, 2016, while commuting home after his shift. His name appears on the CBP Valor Memorial. Compared with Agent Gigax’s case, his recognition demonstrates how policy interpretation and memorial inclusion have differed over time.
Senior Patrol Agents Jesus De La Ossa (1965-1998) and Thomas J. Williams (1966-1998) were killed in a collision while traveling on duty during a detail. Their names are included on CBP memorials, reflecting a recognition standard that differed from that applied to Agent Gigax’s similar circumstance.
Together, these cases document how determinations have varied historically and underscore the importance of consistent recognition standards.
Historical Comparisons in Recognition
Border Patrol Agent Joe R. White, Border Patrol Agent John A. Hoag III, and Border Patrol Agent Alan Aurigema
Border Patrol Agent Joe R. White (1954-1995) suffered a fatal heart attack while on duty at the IH-35 checkpoint near Laredo, Texas, on April 18, 1995. With seven years of service and a distinguished record as a canine handler, including major narcotics seizures, his contributions are recognized on the CBP Valor Memorial.
Border Patrol Agent John A. Hoag III (1969-2009), on December 18, 2009, collapsed while on duty at the immigration checkpoint on Highway 95 near Quartzsite, Arizona. Like Agent White, he experienced a fatal medical emergency while actively performing his duties. Despite the similar circumstances of their deaths, Agent Hoag’s name has not been included in CBP or Border Patrol memorials. A six-year veteran of the Patrol, he previously served in the U.S. Army and as a police officer in Virginia, reflecting a lifelong dedication to public service.
Border Patrol Agent Alan Aurigema (1987-2023), on April 4, 2023, passed away from a coronary blockage while on duty, in uniform, and operating a marked vehicle within the Casa Grande Station’s area of responsibility in Arizona. The extended time required to locate him deepened the tragedy of his passing. As of now, his name has not been added to CBP or Border Patrol memorials, though colleagues have emphasized the importance of remembering his service.
The differing recognition of these cases illustrates the complexity of memorial recognition.. While some agents have been formally honored, others with similar circumstances have not.
Border Patrol Agent Joe R. White, Border Patrol Agent John A. Hoag III, and Border Patrol Agent Alan Aurigema
Border Patrol Agent Joe R. White (1954-1995) suffered a fatal heart attack while on duty at the IH-35 checkpoint near Laredo, Texas, on April 18, 1995. With seven years of service and a distinguished record as a canine handler, including major narcotics seizures, his contributions are recognized on the CBP Valor Memorial.
Border Patrol Agent John A. Hoag III (1969-2009), on December 18, 2009, collapsed while on duty at the immigration checkpoint on Highway 95 near Quartzsite, Arizona. Like Agent White, he experienced a fatal medical emergency while actively performing his duties. Despite the similar circumstances of their deaths, Agent Hoag’s name has not been included in CBP or Border Patrol memorials. A six-year veteran of the Patrol, he previously served in the U.S. Army and as a police officer in Virginia, reflecting a lifelong dedication to public service.
Border Patrol Agent Alan Aurigema (1987-2023), on April 4, 2023, passed away from a coronary blockage while on duty, in uniform, and operating a marked vehicle within the Casa Grande Station’s area of responsibility in Arizona. The extended time required to locate him deepened the tragedy of his passing. As of now, his name has not been added to CBP or Border Patrol memorials, though colleagues have emphasized the importance of remembering his service.
The differing recognition of these cases illustrates the complexity of memorial recognition.. While some agents have been formally honored, others with similar circumstances have not.
The Overlooked Sacrifice Border Patrol Pilot Howard H. Gay
Border Patrol Pilot Howard H. Gay (1945-1990) lost his life on October 3, 1990, near Marfa, Texas. While driving to work through heavy fog, he saw a stranded motorist on the highway. Attempting to turn around to render assistance, he was struck and killed by an oncoming vehicle.
In recognition of this selfless act, the very act in which he lost his life, the Immigration and Naturalization Service posthumously awarded him the Newton-Azrak Award, its highest honor for heroism. The award, presented to his widow, Linda, acknowledged his courage and willingness to help others in distress, even at the cost of his own safety.
Despite receiving the Newton-Azrak Award for heroism in the same incident that claimed his life, Pilot Gay’s death has not been classified as a line-of-duty death, and his name does not appear on the CBP Valor Memorial. His case illustrates how separate criteria for awards and memorial inclusion have, at times, resulted in differing forms of recognition. Documenting his story provides important historical context for understanding how definitions of service and sacrifice have evolved within the Border Patrol and CBP.
Border Patrol Pilot Howard H. Gay (1945-1990) lost his life on October 3, 1990, near Marfa, Texas. While driving to work through heavy fog, he saw a stranded motorist on the highway. Attempting to turn around to render assistance, he was struck and killed by an oncoming vehicle.
In recognition of this selfless act, the very act in which he lost his life, the Immigration and Naturalization Service posthumously awarded him the Newton-Azrak Award, its highest honor for heroism. The award, presented to his widow, Linda, acknowledged his courage and willingness to help others in distress, even at the cost of his own safety.
Despite receiving the Newton-Azrak Award for heroism in the same incident that claimed his life, Pilot Gay’s death has not been classified as a line-of-duty death, and his name does not appear on the CBP Valor Memorial. His case illustrates how separate criteria for awards and memorial inclusion have, at times, resulted in differing forms of recognition. Documenting his story provides important historical context for understanding how definitions of service and sacrifice have evolved within the Border Patrol and CBP.
Border Patrol Pilot Howard H. Gay's tombstone
Understanding Recognition Policy in Historical Context
The history of the U.S. Border Patrol and CBP shows that determining what constitutes a line-of-duty death has evolved alongside changing definitions of duty, sacrifice, and service. Cases such as those of Agents John Charles Gigax, John A. Hoag III, Alan Aurigema, and Pilot Howard H. Gay illustrate the complexity of these determinations and how differing interpretations have influenced memorial recognition over time.
These examples remind us that every decision of recognition carries both institutional and personal meaning. For families and colleagues, remembrance extends beyond policy, it reaffirms the shared values of service, courage, and compassion that define the Border Patrol’s legacy.
As former Deputy Chief Patrol Agent and historian Joseph Banco has noted, historical review brings essential context to recognition decisions. When documentation, institutional memory, and subject-matter expertise are combined, they help ensure that evaluations of past cases remain accurate and transparent. This historically informed approach strengthens education and remembrance without advocating for policy change.
Ultimately, how an organization honors its fallen reflects its enduring principles. Preserving the stories of those who served, recognized or not, helps future generations understand the Border Patrol’s history and the human dimension of its mission.
For information on current CBP recognition policies or memorial processes, inquiries may be directed to the CBP Survivor Advocate at [email protected].
HonorFirst.com remains committed to documenting and preserving this history. Individuals with verified records, photographs, or official correspondence relevant to this topic are invited to share them for archival purposes at [email protected]. All submissions are reviewed for historical accuracy and contribute to the ongoing educational mission of honoring the Border Patrol’s heritage.
Though recognition standards may change, the courage of those who served endures as part of the Border Patrol’s living history.
These examples remind us that every decision of recognition carries both institutional and personal meaning. For families and colleagues, remembrance extends beyond policy, it reaffirms the shared values of service, courage, and compassion that define the Border Patrol’s legacy.
As former Deputy Chief Patrol Agent and historian Joseph Banco has noted, historical review brings essential context to recognition decisions. When documentation, institutional memory, and subject-matter expertise are combined, they help ensure that evaluations of past cases remain accurate and transparent. This historically informed approach strengthens education and remembrance without advocating for policy change.
Ultimately, how an organization honors its fallen reflects its enduring principles. Preserving the stories of those who served, recognized or not, helps future generations understand the Border Patrol’s history and the human dimension of its mission.
For information on current CBP recognition policies or memorial processes, inquiries may be directed to the CBP Survivor Advocate at [email protected].
HonorFirst.com remains committed to documenting and preserving this history. Individuals with verified records, photographs, or official correspondence relevant to this topic are invited to share them for archival purposes at [email protected]. All submissions are reviewed for historical accuracy and contribute to the ongoing educational mission of honoring the Border Patrol’s heritage.
Though recognition standards may change, the courage of those who served endures as part of the Border Patrol’s living history.
