April 17 - April 23ESPRIT DE CORPS The workplace climate resulting from a combination of organizational pride and employee morale.
The definition turns Esprit de Corps into a simple formula and defines parts that comprise organizational pride and employee morale. Esprit de Corps = Organizational Pride + Employee Morale Esprit de Corps is the key to a healthy organization and engaged employees. Honor First is foundational to the Border Patrol's organizational pride and integral to its Esprit de Corps. DOCUMENTS/EVENTS 1918
NEWTON-AZRAK AWARD ACTION ANNIVERSARIES Follow this link to see examples of USBP employees Upholding Honor First.
1992 Johnny Magdaleno Border Patrol Agent Yuma Sector Brendan Manley Border Patrol Agent Yuma Sector Armando Ornelas Border Patrol Agent Yuma Sector Robert Pittenridge Border Patrol Agent Yuma Sector On April 23, 1992, Border Patrol Agents Magdaleno, Ornelas, Pittenridge, and Manley rescued four youths who were trapped in a vehicle that had crashed and become engulfed in flames. Agents Magdaleno and Ornelas commenced pursuit of a vehicle that ran the traffic checkpoint. The pursuit came to an abrupt end when the driver attempted to exit at an off-ramp, crashed through the guardrail, became airborne off the embankments, and crashed to the desert floor. Upon arrival at the scene, the two Agents observed the engine on fire and the youths in a heap in the back seat, injured and trapped, crying for help. They called for an ambulance, ran to the vehicle, and began attempting to extricate them. The impact of the crash had jammed the doors shut and they were locked into position. The fire was rapidly spreading to the interior of the vehicle. Agent Ornelas physically tore the left front door from the vehicle, thereby exposing the passenger compartment. Two persons were quickly removed and carried a short distance to safety. When Agent Pittenridge arrived on the scene, he immediately ran to the vehicle to assist in the extrication of the remaining occupants, ignoring the flames that had now engulfed the entire front end of the vehicle. Agent Manley now arrived at the scene, assessed the situation, radioed for an ambulance and fire truck, grabbed his fire extinguisher, and ran to the vehicle. One more passenger had been removed to safety. Two agents were in the vehicle attempting to remove the fourth passenger and the other agent was reaching into the vehicle trying to undo the tangled seat belts. At this point, the flames were extremely close to the remaining occupant and the three agents. Agent Manley attempted to extinguish the fire and was successful in temporarily beating back the flames as the agents feverishly worked at removing the fourth victim. After the successful extrication of the victims, the agents removed the victims from the close proximity of the now totally engulfed vehicle and administered first aid until rescue personnel arrived. Without the actions of all four agents, the successful rescue of the youths would not have been accomplished. 2000 Walter M. Davenport Senior Patrol Agent Border Patrol Tactical Unit James D. Goldman - Award Statuette Assistant District Director of Investigations Miami District Office Jonathan P. Miller Senior Patrol Agent Border Patrol Tactical Unit Ruben Miranda Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Border Patrol Tactical Unit Charles L. Sachs Senior Patrol Agent Border Patrol Tactical Unit Mickey A. Valdez Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Border Patrol Tactical Unit Casey S. Wilson Immigration Agent (Enforcement) Miami, Florida James L. Wolynetz Jr. Immigration Agent (Enforcement) Miami, Florida Betty A. Mills Special Agent Miami, Florida Steven J. Pastor Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Border Patrol Tactical Unit Charles C. Whitmire Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Border Patrol Tactical Unit Eleven Immigration and Naturalization Service employees were recognized for his involvement in Operation Reunion, the enforcement response that INS/Border Patrol conducted to safely recover Elian Gonzalez and reunite him with his father conducted on April 22, 2000. USBP FALLEN
As of December 8, 2021, the U.S. Border Patrol has suffered 151* fallen. Titles:
The facts regarding each officer are presented without major editing of the "language of the day" found in the reports detailing the circumstances of each event. This is done to provide the reader an association with historical timeframes. Employees who died in the line of duty due to being exposed to deadly illnesses will not have the cause of death listed. *With the exception of two of the fallen immediately below, all names are listed (or in the process of being included) on the official Honor Roll of U.S. Border Patrol Fallen and inscribed on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. The U.S. Border Patrol should fix these discrepancies. HonorFirst.com honors both of the fallen.
1926 William W. McKee Date of Birth: July 3, 1886 Entered on Duty: February 27, 1926 Title: Patrol Inspector End of Watch: April 23, 1926 Details: On April 23, 1926, information was received that a liquor pack train had left Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, for the United States and on that date would be at or near the Alhambre Ranch about 40 miles southwest of Tucson, Arizona. Near the ranch, officers of the Border Patrol saw such a pack train, and in an attempt to capture it, Patrol Inspector McKee was shot and killed at the wheel of a patrol car. The smugglers fired from ambush while being pursued by Inspector McKee. The smuggler responsible for killing Inspector McKee was later convicted of first-degree murder. Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $49 per month. 1927 Thad Pippin Date of Birth: October 16, 1889 Entered on Duty: May 17, 1926 Title: Patrol Inspector End of Watch: April 21, 1927 Details: Patrol Inspector Thad Pippin, El Paso, Texas, met his death in the mountains near Pelea, New Mexico, on the night of April 21, 1927, during the course of a gunfight in which he and a brother officer were engaged with smugglers. Patrol Inspector Crossett, who was with him, was wounded four times. On information that contraband was being smuggled into the United States, a number of Patrol Inspectors, including Inspector Pippin, went to Pelea, New Mexico. Just before dark, they discovered a pack train approaching along a trail at some distance. The officers divided into two teams and guarded their respective trails until after dark, when they heard rapid shooting. Officers arrived and found Officer Crossett shot four times and in urgent need of medical attention. Officer Pippin was located and had fallen down an embankment after having been shot and killed. Nineteen gallons of liquor and two burros were seized at the time but none of the smuggling party was apprehended. 1978 Jose P. Gamez, Jr. Date of Birth: January 3, 1947 Entered on Duty: October 4, 1976 Title: Patrol Agent End of Watch: April 21, 1978 Details: Patrol Agent Jose P. Gamez, Jr. was working 4:00 p.m. to 12 midnight in the area of an isolated check gate on the Maverick County Irrigation Canal in the Quemado Valley, 25 miles north of Eagle Pass, Texas. Patrol Agent Frank J. Lugo, with whom Gamez was working, reported him missing late on April 21, 1978. According to Agent Lugo, he had become separated from Gamez while they were attempting to apprehend four or five undocumented aliens. Agent Gamez's body was recovered from the canal the next morning and it was presumed he had fallen into the canal and drowned. A few days later, the Bexar County Medical Examiner's report revealed Agent Gamez had been choked, probably with a board, and dragged to the canal by an unknown assailant or assailants. He was dead when he was thrown into the water. 1995 *Joe R. White Date of Birth: November 19, 1954 Entered on Duty: July 5, 1988 Title: Border Patrol Agent End of Watch: April 18, 1995 Details: On April 18, 1995, Laredo North Border Patrol Agent Joe R. White passed away early in the morning after suffering an apparent heart attack while on duty at the IH-35 checkpoint. Agent White was transported to Doctors Hospital by ambulance, but was pronounced dead upon arrival. Agent White was a 7-year veteran of the U.S. Border Patrol and a graduate of the 223rd Border Patrol Academy class. He was a canine handler assigned K-9 Brutus. Prior to Brutus, Agent White was the handler for Benno, who was one of the original K-9 assigned to the Laredo Sector. During his 3 1/2 year tenure as a canine handler, Agent White made 155 narcotic seizures worth $8,836,512, seized $126,800 in U.S. currency, and located 1,701 undocumented aliens. * His name is not inscribed on the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial 2016 Jose D. Barraza Date of Birth April 13, 1987 Entered on Duty: August 8, 2008 Title: Border Patrol Agent End of Watch: April 18, 2016 Details: On April 18, 2016, Border Patrol Agent Canine Handler Jose D. Barraza was killed in the line of duty in a two-vehicle accident near Sierra Blanca, Texas. Agent Barraza entered on duty on August 8, 2008, as a member of U.S. Border Patrol Academy Class 800. He was assigned to the Sierra Blanca Station. Agent Barraza was 29 years old and is survived by his wife, two children and his mother.
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April 10 - April 16ESPRIT DE CORPS The workplace climate resulting from a combination of organizational pride and employee morale.
The definition turns Esprit de Corps into a simple formula and defines parts that comprise organizational pride and employee morale. Esprit de Corps = Organizational Pride + Employee Morale Esprit de Corps is the key to a healthy organization and engaged employees. Honor First is foundational to the Border Patrol's organizational pride and integral to its Esprit de Corps. USBP History 1918
NEWTON-AZRAK AWARD ACTION ANNIVERSARIES (Follow this link to see examples of USBP employees Upholding Honor First)
George Fernandez Jr. Border Patrol Agent San Diego Sector Border Patrol Agent George Fernandez Jr. was recognized for his courage in jumping into the driver’s seat of a run-away van in time to steer it out of the path of an oncoming truck. As a result, five persons, including two children, were saved from death or certain injury. John Gallo Interpreter New York, New York John B. Knowles Investigator New York, New York Joseph Occhipinti Investigator New York, New York Reginald D. Ricks Investigator New York, New York Interpreter John Gallo, Investigator John B. Knowles, Investigator Joseph Occhipinti and Investigator Reginald D. Ricks were recognized for their participation in several highly complex and dangerous undercover bribery-corruption investigations resulting in some of the most noteworthy arrests and convictions in the history of the INS. Edwin Rodriguez Criminal Investigator San Juan, Puerto Rico Investigator Edwin Rodriguez was recognized for aiding local police by capturing an assailant who had mortally wounded a police officer. USBP FALLEN
As of December 8, 2021, the U.S. Border Patrol has suffered 151* fallen. Titles:
The facts regarding each officer are presented without major editing of the "language of the day" found in the reports detailing the circumstances of each event. This is done to provide the reader an association with historical timeframes. Employees who died in the line of duty due to being exposed to deadly illnesses will not have the cause of death listed. *With the exception of two of the fallen immediately below, all names are listed (or in the process of being included) on the official Honor Roll of U.S. Border Patrol Fallen and inscribed on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. The U.S. Border Patrol should fix these discrepancies. HonorFirst.com honors both of the fallen.
1919 Clarence M. Childress Date of Birth: January 21, 1877 Entered on Duty: February 16, 1918 Title: Mounted Watchman End of Watch: April 16, 1919 Details: At 3:00 a.m. on April 13, 1919, Mounted Watchman Clarence M. Childress and his partner, Mounted Watchman Leroy D. Straw, were on duty near Monument 9, known as “The Island,” near El Paso, Texas. The officers observed a man come near the line on the Mexican side. A few seconds later, three men ran from the United States side into Mexico and joined the man waiting there. The group then moved several hundred feet into Mexico. A few minutes later, seven men came to the line, which at that point was marked by a barbed wire fence. Two of the seven men held it down with their feet while the other five crossed to the American side with sacks on their backs. The officers made a challenging run at the smugglers and the two who had remained on the line immediately opened fire while the other five dropped the sacks they were carrying and ran toward Mexico. The officers returned fire and all seven of the smugglers ran further into Mexico, disappearing over the mesa. While the officers were pursuing the smugglers, Childress said, “I am hit and going to telephone.” Officer Straw proceeded to the point where the smugglers had abandoned their contraband where he remained, expecting Childress to return. When Childress failed to return, Mounted Watchman Straw became concerned and proceeded to a house where a telephone was available. There he learned that Childress had been seriously wounded and was being cared for pending the arrival of an ambulance. An emergency operation was performed, but he failed to recover. Death occurred at 9:10 a.m. on the morning of April 16, 1919. Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $60.50 per month for her and their two children. Then $38.50 per month for her only. 1960 Archie L. Jennings Date of Birth: May 6, 1923 Entered on Duty: October 15, 1956 Title: Patrol Inspector End of Watch: April 16, 1960 Details: On April 16, 1960, Patrol Inspectors Robert M. Chaldu, Archie L. Jennings, and Gordon G. Hanks were assigned to duty from midnight to 8:00 a.m. at a traffic checkpoint known as San Mateo Flats, on Highway 101, about 18 miles north of Oceanside, California. The operation was concerned primarily with locating deportable aliens and alien smugglers who were enroute from the border to interior destinations. All vehicular traffic was stopped and inspected with a view to determining the citizenship status of the occupants. At about 6:40 a.m., an automobile went through the checkpoint without slowing down, whereupon Inspector Chaldu pursued the car in a patrol vehicle. At that time, Inspector Jennings was manning the traffic check at the stop sign where vehicles are halted. A car driven by Mr. Francis J. Defazio approached the stop sign, and his car was struck from behind by a speeding automobile operated by Mr. Gabriel Montoya. On impact, Mr. Defazio's car went out of control and struck Inspector Jennings, knocking him 50 feet away. Inspector Jennings was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. The cause of death was listed as basilar fractures of the skull. In addition, he suffered numerous contusions, fractures and lacerations. 2021 Christopher Shane Simpkins Date of Birth: September 23, 1972 Entered on Duty: July 6, 1997 Title: Border Patrol Agent End of Watch: April 12, 2021 Details: Border Patrol Agent Christopher Shane Simpkins passed away on April 12, 2021. The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who agreed that this death occurred in the line of duty. Agent Simpkins will be remembered for his diligent service to the nation and for his bravery in the face of danger. Agent Simpkins entered on duty on July 6, 1997 at the Falfurrias Station, McAllen Sector, Texas, as part of the 342nd Session of the Border Patrol Academy. At the time of his passing, he was assigned to the Lake Charles Station in the New Orleans Sector. A native of Selma, Alabama and a graduate of the University of Alabama, Agent Simpkins also honorably served his country in the National Guard as a military police officer. He is survived by his wife, daughter, parents and two brothers. April 3 - April 9All, For those that have received this by email, thank you very much for signing up! Enjoy the inaugural This Week in USBP History HonorFirst.com email! Make sure explore all of the hyperlinks to documents and pages. Also, please forward this email to whomever you think may enjoy it. Have a great week! Esprit de Corps The workplace climate resulting from a combination of organizational pride and employee morale.
Esprit de corps is reinforced through the shared goals, mission and values of the organization and its employees. The definition turns Esprit de Corps into a simple formula and defines parts that comprise organizational pride and employee morale. Esprit de Corps = Organizational Pride + Employee Morale Esprit de Corps is the key to a healthy organization and engaged employees. Honor First is foundational to the Border Patrol's organizational pride and integral to its Esprit de Corps. USBP History 1904
Newton-Azrak Award Actions (Follow this link to see examples of USBP employees Upholding Honor First)
1993 John K. Crowther Border Patrol Agent Del Rio Sector Border Patrol Agent John K. Crowther was recognized for his courage in attempting to rescue two men from the Rio Grande River. On the night of April 6, 1993, Agent Crowther was performing river patrol when he spotted three individuals attempting to illegally enter the U.S. at a weir dam located upriver from the Del Rio, Texas International Bridge. Two of the subjects tried to get away by diving into the water near the dam. This part of the river, filled with strong currents and dangerous undertows, had caused numerous drowning deaths. Knowing the danger involved and putting his own life at risk, Agent Crowther entered the water and attempted to rescue the two men. He managed to grab one of the men and pull him to safety. Agent Crowther tried to rescue the other man but could not locate him. Agent Crowther put his own life at risk to save another person from certain death, exhibiting great courage with his act of heroism. 1994 Jorge Arballo Border Patrol Agent El Centro Sector Forrest J. Mauldin Border Patrol Agent El Centro Sector At approximately 12:15 a.m. on April 8, 1994, Agents Marshall Tjaden and Forrest J. Mauldin observed a group of nine suspected narcotics smugglers approximately one mile west of Drop 4 on the All American Canal. The nine suspects were ferrying large bundles of contraband, in this case marijuana, across the canal in a rubber raft. Agents Tjaden and Mauldin advised SBPA Donn Hoberg of the situation, who then instructed Agents Arballo and Lee to respond and assist Agents Mauldin and Tjaden. At the point on the canal where this activity was taking place, the canal is approximately one hundred yards wide, deep, and had an extremely swift moving current. It should also be pointed out that on this particular night, the weather conditions were poor. The wind was strong, gusting up to 30 miles per hour and the temperature was in the forties. Agents Tjaden and Mauldin maintained surveillance on the group until all nine suspects, with large bundles of contraband and the rubber raft were all out of the canal and on the north side of the north berm of the canal. Agents Tjaden and Mauldin began to sneak up on the group and got into position less than eight feet from them. They made their move and apprehended two of the nine suspects and 366.5 pounds of marijuana. While Agents Tjaden and Mauldin were securing the apprehension scene and checking the immediate area for the seven suspects who had fled, they heard screams coming from the direction of the canal. Agent Tjaden climbed to the 40-foot berm and saw an individual in the berm. The person was screaming for help and appeared to be drowning. Agent Tjaden called for Agent Mauldin to assist him. Agent Mauldin climbed to the top of the berm while Agent Tjaden ran down to the canal bank. At this point, Agents Arballo, Lee, and SBPA Hoberg arrived on the scene. Agent Mauldin guided Agent Arballo to his location on the north side of the canal. He then directed Agent Lee and SBPA Hoberg to the south side of the canal as the drowning man appeared closer to that side. Agent Tjaden was telling the man in the water not to fight the current, but to swim with it. Agents Arballo and Mauldin were preparing to make another rescue attempt. This time, the drowning man was able to grab onto a small outcropping of brush, which slowed him down considerably. Without hesitation, Agent Arballo again jumped into the icy water while Agent Mauldin anchored the tow strap. This time, Agent Arballo was successful in reaching the man. He grabbed the man and yelled for Agent Mauldin to start pulling. Agent Mauldin pulled as hard as he could, and after several minutes, managed to pull Agent Arballo and the drowning victim to safety. Because of the extremely cold water, the distance they had traveled, which was over one mile, and because this entire ordeal had lasted approximately 30 minutes, Agents Arballo and Mauldin were physically exhausted. Agents Arballo and Mauldin acted on instinct more than anything else. They disregarded the fact that a large load of narcotics had just been apprehended and the fact that the drowning man was probably one of the drug smugglers. They saw a person in desperate need of help, rushed to his aid, and saved his life. What Agents Arballo and Mauldin did was extremely dangerous. However, they acted without hesitation. They thought about what there were going to do, planned their moves, and executed them to the best of their ability. 2022 Marco A. Perez Jr. - photo, award certificate Border Patrol Agent San Diego, CA On April 6, 2021, at approximately 6:58 A.M., beyond the call of duty, Border Patrol Agent Marco Perez put his own life at great personal risk and acted without hesitation to save a woman from certain death as she attempted to end her life. By leaning over the edge of the 459 foot Pine Valley Bridge and grabbing the suicidal victim that had just let go, Agent Perez placed himself in great personal danger. Agent Perez's conspicuous lifesaving actions brought great credit upon himself and the U.S. Border Patrol. USBP Fallen As of December 8, 2021, the U.S. Border Patrol has suffered 151* fallen. Titles
The names that appear below hold a place of honor. They have made the ultimate sacrifice in an effort to fulfill the oath each officer took to protect and defend the United States of America. The facts regarding each officer are presented without major editing of the "language of the day" found in the reports detailing the circumstances of each event. This is done to provide the reader an association with historical timeframes. Employees who died in the line of duty due to being exposed to deadly illnesses will not have the cause of death listed. *With the exception of two of the fallen immediately below, all names are listed (or in the process of being included) on the official Honor Roll of U.S. Border Patrol fallen and inscribed on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. The U.S. Border Patrol should fix these discrepancies. HonorFirst.com honors both of the fallen.
Joseph P. Riley Date of Birth: October 23, 1894 Entered on Duty: October 8, 1924 Title: Patrol Inspector End of Watch: April 6, 1925 Details: During the evening of April 4, 1925, Patrol Inspectors William A. Blundell and Joseph P. Riley were patrolling in a government owned car about 1 1/2 miles from Eureka, Montana, when the tie rod broke, causing the automobile to leave the roadway. The vehicle continued over a high bank and then into a ditch and turned over, pinning Inspector Riley under the steering wheel. Patrol Inspector Blundell was not seriously injured. Patrol Inspector Riley sustained a fractured cervical vertebra and a spinal cord injury. He was conveyed to the Eureka Hospital, which was nearest the scene of the accident. The attending physician advised that Inspector Riley's condition was so serious that facilities were not available for providing proper attention at Eureka and he recommended moving the patient to Spokane, Washington. On April 5, Inspector Riley was transported by train to Spokane, Washington, where he was placed in the Sacred Heart Hospital. He succumbed at 6:00 a.m. on April 6, 1925, from respiratory paralysis. Survivor benefits - As per this document, his mother received $20 per month for 8 years Jason C. Panides Date of Birth: December 27, 1974 Entered on Duty: March 9, 1998 Title: Border Patrol Agent End of Watch: April 4, 2001 Details: On Wednesday, April 4, 2001, at 12:36 a.m., Border Patrol Agent Jason C. Panides was killed after assisting in the apprehension of a group of illegal aliens on Interstate Highway 35, north of Laredo, Texas. Agent Panides was in the southbound lane of the east access road when he was struck by a southbound truck. He was killed instantly. Agent Panides was a native of Jacksonville, Florida, and was a graduate of the University of Florida with a degree in criminal justice and psychology. He was a graduate of the 368th session of the Border Patrol Academy at Glynco, Georgia. At the time of his death, he was stationed at the Laredo North Border Patrol Station. March 27 - April 2Good morning, Enjoy This Week in USBP History! Make sure explore all of the hyperlinks to documents and pages. Also, please forward this blog to whomever you think may enjoy it. Have a great week! Esprit de Corps The workplace climate resulting from a combination of organizational pride and employee morale.
The definition turns Esprit de Corps into a simple formula and defines parts that comprise organizational pride and employee morale. Esprit de Corps = Organizational Pride + Employee Morale Esprit de Corps is the key to a healthy organization and engaged employees. Honor First is foundational to the Border Patrol's organizational pride and integral to its Esprit de Corps. USBP History 1906
Newton-Azrak Award Actions (Follow this link to see examples of USBP employees Upholding Honor First)
1994 Robert S. Herrera Border Patrol Agent Yuma Sector On March 29, 1994, at approximately 9:30 a.m., Border Patrol Agent Robert S. Herrera responded to an intrusion device that had indicated activity near the Sanchez Canal, west of San Luis, Arizona. Upon Arrival, Agent Herrera observed a subject who appeared to be a male juvenile swimming to the east bank of the canal. While watching the subject swim to the other side, BPA Herrera’s attention was caught by a disturbance in the water just to the south of where the first subject was swimming. Looking to the south, Agent Herrera saw a person’s head break the surface of the water and then go back under. Continuing to watch, Agent Herrera saw the person pop up again, flail the water, and gasp for air before disappearing beneath the surface again. By the time the individual went under for the third time, Agent Herrera was on the bank of the canal, dropping his leather as he jumped into the water. In the middle of the canal, Agent Herrera was able to grab and eight-year-old child and bring him safely back to shore where BPA Matthew Sutton pulled him up onto dry land. Robert Herrera’s actions on the morning of March 29, 1994, were above and beyond what is normally expected of an agent. He imperiled his own safety by leaping into a polluted canal to save the life of a child. 1999 William T. Veal Chief Patrol Agent San Diego Sector On the night of April 1, 1999, eastern San Diego County experienced very low temperatures and unexpected snow during a fierce overnight storm, which left many illegal entrant aliens stranded and lost in the rugged mountainous terrain of the area. Many of these people were in great peril of imminent death and at least seven others had already succumbed. After ensuring that Sector resources were mobilized to cope with this emergency, Chief Patrol Agent William T. Veal, in the early morning hours of April 2, responded by flying into service the Border Patrol’s heavy lift UH-1 helicopter. Joined by the Patrol Agent in Charge of Air Operations, John D. Pool and Deputy Chief Patrol Agent Harold R. Beasley, he flew into very hazardous weather conditions to effect the rescue of stranded and hypothermic aliens. During this time, Chief Veal rescued eight aliens who were hypothermic and in imminent danger of death. The attending physician stated to rescue personnel that one of these individuals would have died had he not received medical attention within the hour. Additionally, by flying through treacherous terrain in deteriorating weather conditions, while fighting low ceilings, clouds, and fog, Chief Veal inserted Border Patrol and San Diego County Search and Rescue teams into accessible areas to search for stranded aliens. This included making landings in the same rugged terrain, at times with only one tip of a skid touching the ground. With no regard for his personal safety, Chief Veal continued search and rescue activities until he was assured that no additional aliens were in peril. He flew a total of 6.9 hours with the only breaks being three brief refueling stops. 2001 Benjamin Sanford Senior Patrol Agent El Centro Sector On April 2, 2001, Senior Patrol Agent Benjamin Sanford was patrolling a stretch of the All American Canal, near Calexico, California, monitoring the border fence for people attempting to enter the country illegally from Mexico. A concerned citizen frantically approached him to report that a car had just plummeted into the canal. Agent Sanford immediately called his colleagues at the Calexico Station for assistance, and then drove to the crash site. When he arrived at the scene, he saw a partially submerged car and a woman flailing in a fight against the swift currents. Realizing he could not wait for help to arrive, and giving little regard to his own well-being, he dove into the water, swam to the woman, and dragged her to shore. His heroic actions saved her from certain death. USBP Fallen
As of December 8, 2021, the U.S. Border Patrol has suffered 151* fallen. Titles
The names that appear below hold a place of honor. They have made the ultimate sacrifice in an effort to fulfill the oath each officer took to protect and defend the United States of America. The facts regarding each officer are presented without major editing of the "language of the day" found in the reports detailing the circumstances of each event. This is done to provide the reader an association with historical timeframes. Employees who died in the line of duty due to being exposed to deadly illnesses will not have the cause of death listed. *With the exception of two of the fallen immediately below, all names are listed (or in the process of being included) on the official Honor Roll of U.S. Border Patrol fallen and inscribed on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. The U.S. Border Patrol should fix these discrepancies. HonorFirst.com honors both of the fallen.
Lee L. Bounds Date of Birth: November 24, 1936 Entered on Duty: June 22, 1970 Title: Patrol Agent End of Watch: March 29, 1974 Details: Border Patrol Agent Lee L. Bounds of the Lordsburg Station, El Paso Sector, was killed in a jeep accident on March 29, 1974. He was traveling alone on a road between Animas and Rodeo, New Mexico, southwest of Lordsburg, and ran the jeep off the right shoulder of the road. He lost control when he attempted to steer the vehicle back onto the road and the jeep overturned. Bounds was thrown from the vehicle, which rolled over him before stopping in an upright position, Mr. Bounds’ head was crushed. The jeep, which was equipped with seat belts and roll bar, was damaged extensively. Luis A. Santiago Date of Birth: November 9, 1964 Entered on Duty: June 6, 1994 Title: Border Patrol Agent (Trainee) End of Watch: March 28, 1995 Details: At approximately 11:45 p.m., Agent Santiago was working in a canyon near Lower Otay Reservoir when he and other agents saw a group of about 20 illegal aliens. The agents identified themselves as Border Patrol and ordered the aliens to stop. The group scattered and the agents followed. Agent Santiago gave chase along the rim of the canyon, taking a narrow trail that leads to the edge of a cliff. He lost his footing on loose rock and slippery grass and fell approximately 120 feet to his death. On June 6, 1994, Luis Santiago joined the U.S. Border Patrol as a BPA (Trainee) at the San Diego Sector/Brown Field Station in San Diego, California. After entering on duty, he was sent to the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, Georgia. On October 18, 1994, he graduated from the 267th Session and returned to San Diego. Agent Santiago was one week short of taking his ten-month examination. Stephen M. Sullivan Date of Birth: July 6, 1971 Entered on Duty: August 4, 1996 Title: Border Patrol Agent End of Watch: March 27, 1999 Details: On Saturday, March 27, 1999, Border Patrol Agent Stephen M. Sullivan was transporting a group of aliens on the Otay Truck Trail when his vehicle overturned and rolled down an embankment. Three of the aliens, who had been thrown from the vehicle, climbed up out of the embankment and approached another Border Patrol Agent, stating that others were still inside the vehicle and had been injured. Four people, including Agent Sullivan, were killed in the accident. Agent Sullivan began his career with the INS as an Adjudications Officer in Los Angeles. He was hired by the Border Patrol in September 1997. At the time of his death, he was assigned to the El Cajon Station of the San Diego Sector. Jarod C. Dittman Date of Birth: September 9, 1979 Entered on Duty: March 5, 2007 Title: Border Patrol Agent End of Watch: March 30, 2008 Details: Border Patrol Agent Jarod C. Dittman was killed in a single-vehicle accident near Jamul, California in the early morning hours of March 30, 2008. Agent Dittman was driving from the Brown Field Border Patrol Station to his assigned patrol area, when his service vehicle rolled over, ejecting Agent Dittman from the vehicle. Another Border Patrol agent drove up on the scene and immediately called for emergency assistance. Due to the heavy fog, an airlift helicopter could not respond. Agent Dittman was pronounced dead while enroute to the hospital. Agent Dittman entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol on March 5, 2007, as a member of the 660th session of the Border Patrol Academy. He was assigned to the Brown Field Station immediately after graduation from the Academy. Prior to joining the Border Patrol, Agent Dittman served in the Pennsylvania National Guard. March 20 - March 26Good morning, Another huge week in USBP history. This week starts with letters of recommendation and complaints for Jeff Milton. There are documents concerning firearms training in the 1930’s, internment camp tears gas inventories in the 1940’s, and the need for a border barrier in the McAllen Sector in the 1950’s. We remember 8 recipients of the Newton-Azrak Award, including the first two women recipients. Related to one of the Newton-Azrak Award actions, we remember one of the greatest strengths of the USBP Honorary Award program (the ability to consider and recognize past actions, correcting past wrongs) as Cary Scott received the USBP Commendation Medal with a “V” device 7 years after the event. Finally, this week marks the LODD anniversaries of three of our fallen. Enjoy! Esprit de Corps The workplace climate resulting from a combination of organizational pride and employee morale.
The definition turns Esprit de Corps into a simple formula and defines parts that comprise organizational pride and employee morale. Esprit de Corps = Organizational Pride + Employee Morale Esprit de Corps is the key to a healthy organization and engaged employees. Honor First is foundational to the Border Patrol's organizational pride and integral to its Esprit de Corps. USBP History 1904
Newton-Azrak Award Actions (Follow this link to see examples of USBP employees Upholding Honor First)
1979 Kenneth D. Crockett - group photo Border Patrol Agent Yuma Sector Larry M. Herbert Investigator Yuma, Arizona William A. McIver - award documents, photo 1, photo 2 Border Patrol Agent Houlton Sector On March 25, 1978 at approximately 6:30 PM, Agent Larry Herbert was near a construction bridge that spans the Andrade and Morales area near Yuma, Arizona. The water which flows under the bridge is constricted which creates an extremely dangerous and turbulent whirlpool. As Agent Herbert approached the bridge, he saw three people in a small boat. The operator of the boat was frantically attempting and failing to start the boat's motor. Agent Herbert immediately radioed for help. Agent Herbert attempted unsuccessfully to reach the people with a tow strap before it was pulled into the turbulent waters where it capsized spilling the occupants into the water. All of the occupants were having difficulty keeping their heads above water. Agent Herbert was able to quickly pull two of the victims from the water. Keeping the third person in sight, he instructed one of the people he had just saved to use his Service vehicle's radio to advise that more help was needed. Upon seeing that the third victim had been pulled into the whirlpool, Agent Herbert jumped into the water to rescue him. Becoming exhausted and unable to save the victim, Agent Herbert swam to shore. As Agent Herbert swam to shore, Agent William McIver and Agent Kenneth Crockett arrived at the scene. Agent McIver immediately jumped into the water and entered the whirlpool with the victim. After a tremendous struggle, Agent McIver was able to escape the whirlpool with the victim. Having become exhausted, Agent McIver couldn't get himself and the victim out of the water. Agent Crockett then reach out and was able to pull both Agent McIver and the third victim to shore. 1994 – (first female Newton-Azrak Award recipients) Christina M. Carnes Border Patrol Agent El Paso Sector David Hinojosa Jr. Border Patrol Agent El Paso Sector Cheryl R. Smith Border Patrol Agent El Paso Sector Bruce L. Cooke Supervisory Border Patrol Agent El Paso Sector On March 20, 1994, Rose Johnson-Navarro was involved in a one-vehicle accident on Paisano Avenue in El Paso, Texas. Her vehicle had gone out of control, crashed through a fence and guard rail, and came to rest on its wheels with the front end slanted down towards a deep canal. Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Bruce L. Cooke, Border Patrol Agents Cheryl Smith, Christina M. Carnes, and David Hinjosa Jr. of the El Paso Border Patrol Station responded to the scene. The entire front part of the vehicle was engulfed in flames that swept back over the front half of the vehicle. The inside of the vehicle was completely obscured with smoke. A bystander informed the agents that no one had escaped from the vehicle. With the knowledge that someone was still inside the burning vehicle and at great personal risk, the agents attempted to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher. They managed to suppress the fire enough to open the driver side door. They then entered the burning vehicle and extricated Ms. Johnson, who was injured and unable to escape. After being carried to a safe distance, Ms. Johnson advised the agents that her two children were still inside the vehicle. Agents Smith, Carnes, and Hinjosa then returned to the vehicle that was almost fully engulfed in flames and managed to search for the missing children to no avail. It was later determined that the children had not been in the vehicle. Agents Cooke, Smith, Carnes, and Hinjosa, at their own personal life risk, saved the life of Rose Johnson-Navarro by exercising unusual courage and bravery. 2013 * Ruben Mendoza - photo Border Patrol Agent, Hebbronville, Texas For his heroic actions to save a wounded agent under extreme duress. On March 21, 2013, Agent Ruben Mendoza was involved in a lethal force incident near Hebbronville, Texas. Two agents on roving patrol stopped to assist an individual they initially believed to be a stranded motorist. During the course of the encounter, the agents discovered the motorist was a violent felon, driving a stolen vehicle. When one of the agents attempted to search the subject before arrest, the subject resisted. As the two other agents struggled with the subject, Agent Mendoza moved to a position of tactical advantage and drew his service weapon. The subject gained access to a hidden handgun, and fired at the two agents, wounding one of them. At that time, BPA Mendoza fired several rounds, incapacitating the subject. Agent Mendoza then rendered first aid to the wounded agent. Agent Mendoza’s composure and professionalism under extreme pressure prevented further harm to his colleagues. *Pedro Saldivar was the agent wounded during this action. He was recognized with the Commissioner’s Meritorious Service Award for Valor and the USBP Purple Cross. As per the Texas DPS investigator, Border Patrol Agent Cary Scott saved all three agents by physically engaging the shooter. His tenacious grappling with the shooter preventing the shooter from delivering accurate fire. At the time, Agent Scott received no recognition. Cary Scott became the first person whose past acts of unrecognized heroism/valor was recognized under the USBP Honorary Awards. He received a USBP Commendation Medal with “V” device for extraordinary heroism. Cary’s action was a major catalyst in the development of the USBP Honorary Awards policy, specifically authorizing past actions to be considered and recognized. I will note that Chief Ortiz has crippled the ability of the USBP to recognize past acts like those of Cary Scott. Chief Ortiz personally blocked over 370 employees from receiving USBP recognition for their past worthy acts, include four employees who were nominated and recommend to receive Newton-Azrak Awards. Further, Agent Saldivar should also have received a USBP Commendation Medal with “V” device but Chief Ortiz’s decision blocks that recognition also. USBP Fallen
As of December 8, 2021, the U.S. Border Patrol has suffered 151* fallen. Titles
The names that appear below hold a place of honor. They have made the ultimate sacrifice in an effort to fulfill the oath each officer took to protect and defend the United States of America. The facts regarding each officer are presented without major editing of the "language of the day" found in the reports detailing the circumstances of each event. This is done to provide the reader an association with historical timeframes. Employees who died in the line of duty due to being exposed to deadly illnesses will not have the cause of death listed. *With the exception of two of the fallen immediately below, all names are listed (or in the process of being included) on the official Honor Roll of U.S. Border Patrol fallen and inscribed on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. The U.S. Border Patrol should fix these discrepancies. HonorFirst.com honors both of the fallen.
1929 Earl A. Roberts Date of Birth: August 21, 1894 Entered on Duty: January 21, 1929 Title: Patrol Inspector End of Watch: March 24, 1929 Details: Patrol Inspector Earl A. Roberts was shot by a liquor smuggler at about 8:00 p.m. Saturday, March 23, 1929, and died from the wound at 5:00 p.m., Sunday, March 24, 1929. The shooting occurred on the St. Clair River, in Algonac, Michigan. Inspector Roberts was working with Patrol Inspector Stanley H. Graham, when they noticed a motorboat towing a small rowboat approaching from the direction of Canada. The officers proceeded along the shore following the course of the boat in an attempt to intercept it when the shore was reached. The officers separated in order to converge on a probable landing point. The motorboat came to the shore, at which time Patrol Inspector Roberts stepped aboard the stern of the boat and identified himself as a federal officer. Patrol Inspector Graham, who was standing on the shore a few feet from the boat, flashed his light on the occupants and observed that an individual known to him as Vet Brown was standing in the center of the boat with a .45 caliber revolver aimed at Inspector Roberts. Inspector Graham instructed Brown to surrender; however, the latter fired, point-blank, at Inspector Roberts and immediately whirled toward Inspector Graham, firing the remaining bullets in that direction. Inspector Graham emptied his gun in returning fire, but none of the shots exchanged hit their mark. A second individual in the boat, later identified as Clayton Smith, had jumped from the boat into the rowboat that was being towed and had cast-off, setting a course for Canada. Smith was a witness to the events and later testified on behalf of the government in the case against Brown. Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $82.50 per month. 1930 Harry E. Vincent Date of Birth: October 3, 1895 Entered on Duty: February 16, 1926 Title: Patrol Inspector End of Watch: March 25, 1930 Details: During the evening of March 23, 1930, Senior Patrol Inspector James E. Renshaw and Patrol Inspector Harry E. Vincent were inspecting northbound traffic about one mile north of Oceanside, California. The traffic check operation was being conducted on a temporary roadway where new construction was underway. At 10:00 p.m., an automobile traveling in a southerly direction missed the detour and struck down Officers Renshaw and Vincent. Both officers were knocked unconscious. A bystander, Mr. William Trotter, took charge of the situation. Mr. Trotter had the officers transported to a clinic in Oceanside. He also sent word to other Patrol Inspectors working nearby in conjunction with the traffic check operation. Senior Patrol Inspector Renshaw was not seriously injured but Patrol Inspector Vincent was in serious condition with a fractured skull. The following day preliminary arrangements were made to move Inspector Vincent to the Navy Hospital in San Diego, California, but after consultation by several doctors, it was agreed that there was little chance for recovery and no chance at all, if Inspector Vincent was moved. Patrol Inspector Vincent passed away at 5:00 a.m., March 25, 1930. Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $75 for her and their child per month. Upon his wife remarrying, the child received $41.67 per month. 1932 Frank Vidmar, Jr. Date of Birth: September 20, 1901 Entered on Duty: July 6, 1931 Title: Patrol Inspector End of Watch: March 24, 1932 Details: Patrol Inspectors Frank Vidmar, Jr. and James W. Hudson were performing voluntary extra duty in the vicinity of Lewiston, New York, in an effort to apprehend a known alien smuggler. Since the government vehicle customarily used was known to the smuggler, the personal automobile of Patrol Inspector Vidmar was being used, with Inspector Hudson doing the driving. The smuggler was encountered in his automobile, accompanied by two other persons, at Lewiston Heights during the early morning hours. He disregarded the command of the officers to stop, and increased the speed of his vehicle trying to escape. The officers gave chase pursuing the smuggler's car at 50 miles per hour into the city of Niagara Falls. At a curve in the roadway, the officers' car skidded on the icy pavement and collided broadside with an oncoming trolley car, demolishing the car owned by Patrol Inspector Vidmar, and causing injuries that resulted in his death. Inspector Vidmar died at 4:52 p.m., March 24, 1932, after failing to regain consciousness. He sustained a fractured skull, brain concussion, and a crushed chest. Patrol Inspector Hudson was badly injured but survived. Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $67.50 per month for her and their child. |
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
June 2024
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