May 12 - May 18Good morning! Welcome to another This Week in USBP History! This week in U.S. Border Patrol history, we commemorate the profound courage and sacrifice of our agents. From the early discussions in 1922 that shaped the foundation of the Border Patrol, to the heroic actions of Assistant Chief Patrol Agent Dan M. Harris Jr., who was awarded the Newton-Azrak Award for extraordinary bravery in 2007, our history is rich with dedication and valor. We also remember the sacrifices of Agents Hector R. Clark and Eduardo Rojas, Jr., who tragically lost their lives in 2011, and Agent Daniel Salazar, who died in the line of duty in 2022. Each story is a testament to the risks and responsibilities borne by those who guard our borders. Join us as we reflect on these pivotal moments and honor the legacy of those who have served. Dive deeper into our storied past and the continued evolution of our mission in this week's blog. 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 cliff@honorfirst.com). 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 MILESTONESMay 12
Date of Birth November 16, 1971 Entered on Duty: August 20, 2001 Title: Border Patrol Agent End of Watch: May 12, 2011 Gravesite Eduardo Rojas, Jr. Date of Birth October 14, 1976 Entered on Duty: April 9, 2000 Title: Lead Border Patrol Agent End of Watch: May 12, 2011 Gravesite Hector R. Clark and Eduardo Rojas, Jr., both dedicated members of the U.S. Border Patrol, tragically lost their lives on May 12, 2011, in a devastating accident. On that fateful morning, their government vehicle was struck by a freight train near the intersection of Interstate 8 and Paloma Road, about nine miles west of Gila Bend, Arizona. At the time, Agents Clark and Rojas were actively assisting other agents in the pursuit of a group of suspected illegal aliens. Agent Hector R. Clark, born on November 16, 1971, in the Yuma, Arizona community, joined the U.S. Border Patrol on August 20, 2001, as part of the 481st Session of the Border Patrol Academy. After graduating, he was initially assigned to the El Centro Station in the El Centro Sector and later to the Yuma Station in the Yuma Sector. At the age of 39, Agent Clark's end of watch came while serving at the Yuma Station. He left behind a legacy of commitment and bravery, survived by his wife and two children. Agent Eduardo Rojas, Jr., born on October 14, 1976, in El Paso, Texas, began his service with the U.S. Border Patrol on April 9, 2000, as a member of the 432nd Session of the Border Patrol Academy. Following his graduation, he was assigned to the Yuma Station in the Yuma Sector, where he rose to the rank of Lead Border Patrol Agent. Agent Rojas, a graduate of Irvin High School, was 34 years old at the time of the accident. He is remembered for his dedication and service, survived by his wife and two children. Both agents are honored for their commitment and sacrifice to the nation, leaving an indelible mark on the U.S. Border Patrol and their communities. Their untimely passing is a solemn reminder of the risks faced by those who protect our borders. May 13
Date of Birth: May 1, 1982 Entered on Duty: June 8, 2018 Title: Border Patrol Agent End of Watch: May 13, 2022 Details: Border Patrol Agent Salazar entered on duty on June 8, 2018, as part of 1097th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. He recently served at the El Cajon Station in San Diego Sector. He had served in the San Diego Sector his entire career. Agent Salazar was killed in a single vehicle accident as he was responding to a sensor activation in the early morning hours. Reports indicate that he was driving on an unimproved road when the vehicle left the roadway and rolled down a steep embankment. Agent Salazar was thrown from the vehicle during the accident. BPA Salazar is survived by his wife Karina Martinez, his 9-month-old son Santiago Daniel Salazar, his father Humberto Salazar, his mother Marielena Salazar and his siblings Nancy Salazar, Cindy Chacon and Michael Salazar. Gravesite May 14
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May 5 - May 11Good morning! Welcome to another This Week in USBP History! This week, we reflect on pivotal moments and honor the courage of our Mounted Watchmen, Patrol Inspectors, and Border Patrol agents throughout the history of the U.S. Border Patrol. Our remembrance begins with May 8, 1919, as we pay tribute to Mounted Watchman Charles L. Hopkins, tragically killed in a gunfight along the Rio Grande. His sacrifice exemplifies the enduring risks and challenges faced by the earliest members of our force. The narrative of courage continues to May 6, 1984, when we celebrate the establishment of the U.S. Border Patrol Tactical Unit (BORTAC). This milestone marks a significant enhancement in our capabilities, providing specialized tactics and rapid response to secure national security. Further, we honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice more recently. On May 10, 1995, Patrol Inspector Xavier G. Magdaleno tragically died following a devastating accident near the El Paso Sector. Just as poignantly, on May 8, 2021, we remember Border Patrol Agent Freddie Vasquez, whose end of watch is a somber reminder of the dangers our agents face daily. Concluding our week of remembrance and reflection, on May 5, 2023, BORTAC members showcased exemplary skill by capturing a mass shooting suspect in Texas, highlighting the critical role our agents play in upholding safety and law at both local and national levels. As we explore these narratives from different eras, we are reminded of the heroism, dedication, and evolution within the Border Patrol. These stories do not only honor those who have served and sacrificed but also underscore the enduring values and steadfast mission of our agency. 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 cliff@honorfirst.com). 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 MILESTONESMay 5
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April 28 - May 4Good morning! Welcome to another This Week in USBP History! This week we reflect on a series of pivotal moments that have shaped the U.S. Border Patrol and underscored our commitment to duty, valor, and integrity. We begin our historical journey on April 29, 1918, when Frank Berkshire submitted his visionary "Proposal to Establish an Immigration Patrol Service on the Land Boundaries." This seminal document proposed a substantial force to secure the nation’s borders, laying the groundwork for what would evolve into today's Border Patrol. Moving to the mid-20th century, on April 28, 1942, amidst global conflict, the INS issued Instruction No. 5, consolidating directives concerning the treatment of alien enemy detainees according to the Geneva Convention. This adherence to international standards highlights our foundational principles of honor and humane treatment. Fast forward to April 29, 2015, we honor the bravery of Border Patrol Agents Fernando Galvan and Arturo Gutierrez, who demonstrated exceptional courage near the Rio Grande by rescuing individuals from a flaming vehicle, showcasing the quick thinking and valor that define our agents. This week, we also commemorate the end of watch for Agent Nathaniel A. Afolayan, who tragically passed on May 1, 2009. His passing during training activities is a somber reminder of the personal risks our agents face and the sacrifices made by those who serve. Join us as we explore these narratives that span from regulatory frameworks to heroic rescues and profound sacrifices. These stories not only honor the past but also reinforce the enduring values and steadfast commitment of the U.S. Border Patrol. 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 cliff@honorfirst.com). 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 MILESTONESApril 28
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April 21 - April 27Good morning! Welcome to another This Week in USBP History! This week we solemnly honor the bravery and ultimate sacrifices of our fallen, reflecting on the anniversaries of their end of watch. We remember Patrol Inspector Thad Pippin and Patrol Agent Jose P. Gamez, Jr., whose lives were tragically lost on April 21st, in 1927 and 1978, respectively. We also pay tribute to Patrol Inspector William W. McKee, who was killed in action on April 23, 1926, and especially to Patrol Inspector Garvis Field Harrell, whose end of watch came on April 24, 1944. While Harrell’s sacrifice is not officially recognized by Customs and Border Protection or the U.S. Border Patrol, we honor him on our U.S. Border Patrol Fallen page and continue to advocate for policy changes that would officially recognize his and other unrecognized officers' sacrifices on our Unrecognized but Unforgotten page. This week also marks significant historical actions and milestones that have shaped the operational and cultural fabric of the U.S. Border Patrol. From the harrowing pursuits and gunfights of the early 20th century to the valiant rescue efforts by Agents in 1992 and 2020, earning them the prestigious Newton-Azrak Award for heroic action, these moments underscore the unyielding spirit and dedication of our agents. Additionally, we explore pivotal administrative milestones, such as the discussions and directives that led to significant uniform changes over the decades, enhancing both the functionality and identity of our force. These developments showcase the evolution of the Border Patrol through careful consideration of both operational needs and external perceptions. Join us as we explore these poignant narratives, honoring those who have fallen and celebrating the enduring legacy and integrity of the U.S. Border Patrol. These stories not only honor the past but also inspire our current and future agents with a legacy of valor, dedication, and commitment. 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 cliff@honorfirst.com). 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 MILESTONESApril 21
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April 14 - April 20Good morning! Welcome to another This Week in USBP History! This week we honor the courage and sacrifice of our fallen whose anniversaries we commemorate. On April 16, we remember Mounted Watchman Clarence M. Childress and Patrol Inspector Archie L. Jennings. We also pay tribute to Border Patrol Agent Joe R. White and Border Patrol Agent Jose D. Barraza, whose end of watch fell on April 18, in 1995 and 2016 respectively. These anniversaries are poignant reminders of the risks inherent in protecting our nation’s borders. This week also brings to light significant milestones in the evolution of the U.S. Border Patrol. From the early discussions in 1918 that suggested the creation of a border patrol, to the critical policy implementations and reintegration of the U.S. Border Patrol Canine Program in 1987. Each event underscores the dynamic history and continuous development of our agency. We also explore changes in uniforms and operational equipment, reflecting the agency's adaptability and commitment to the safety and professionalism of its officers. These changes, from the adoption of protective helmets in 1930 to the detailed uniform policy updates in 2020, illustrate the thoughtful evolution of the Border Patrol's presentation and readiness. Join us as we delve into these compelling stories, from moments of loss to significant advancements, all of which contribute to the rich tapestry of the U.S. Border Patrol’s legacy of integrity, valor, and commitment. 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 cliff@honorfirst.com). 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 MILESTONESApril 14
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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
May 2024
I prefer that you leave comments. However, if you wish to contact me, please do so by emailing Cliff@HonorFirst.com.
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