PHILADELPHIA – A 55-year-old woman is alive today after two U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers resuscitated her at Philadelphia International Airport Saturday.

Officers Luis Castineiras and Mohammed Sajib heard pleas for help at the bottom of an escalator in the arrivals side of terminal A-East at about 5:15 p.m.  The officers rushed to the scene and encountered an unresponsive woman who was not breathing and started turning blue.

While Officer Sajib ran to grab the closest Automatic External Defibrillator (AED), Castineiras initiated Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).  Castineiras continued CPR until the woman breathed on her own.  A woman passing nearby identified herself as a nurse and rendered assistance.

Philadelphia emergency medical technicians transported the woman to a local hospital for observation.  CBP learned Sunday that the woman was treated and released.

CBP is not releasing the woman’s name due to privacy laws.

“I am proud of Officers Castineiras and Sajib.  It comes as no surprise to me that they immediately rendered decisive life-saving measures when they encountered a woman in serious medical distress,” said Joseph Martella, CBP’s Area Port Director for the Area Port of Philadelphia.  “We consistently retrain on basic life-saving skills throughout our careers, and though most of us may never have the need to exercise those skills, it is reassuring to know that when the bell rings, CBP officers can answer the call.”

In addition to learning customs and immigration laws, CBP officers learn basic life-saving skills during accession training at the Field Operations Academy, located at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center.  Officers conduct periodic refresher training to retain those critical skills.

“Our entire Baltimore Field Office family is proud of the quick actions that Customs and Border Protection Officers Castineiras and Sajib took to save this woman’s life,” said Casey Owen Durst, CBP’s Field Operations Director in Baltimore.  “These officers’ actions demonstrate the dedication I see every day from the highly-trained and compassionate professionals of our Baltimore Field Office.”

CBP’s Office of Field Operations

Almost a million times each day, CBP officers welcome international travelers into the U.S.  In screening both foreign visitors and returning U.S. citizens, CBP uses a variety of techniques to intercept narcotics, unreported currency, weapons, prohibited agriculture, and other illicit products, and to assure that global tourism remains safe and strong.  For international travel tips, please visit CBP’s Travel webpage.

CBP's border security mission is led at ports of entry by CBP officers from the Office of Field Operations, who enforce all applicable U.S. laws, including against illegal immigration, narcotics smuggling and illegal importation, and by CBP agriculture specialists, who protect U.S. agriculture from the introduction of pests or disease from overseas sources. 

Please visit CBP Ports of Entry to learn more about how CBP’s Office of Field Operations secures our nation’s borders.

Learn more about "A Typical Day" for CBP in 2017, or by visiting www.CBP.gov.

GRAND FORKS, N.D.— A U.S. Customs and Border Protection Operations Manager was involved in a vehicle collision, while on duty near Crookston, MN Thursday afternoon, which resulted in the managers’ death.

“I am deeply saddened by the death of CBP Office of Intelligence Collection Operations Manager Christopher T. Bacon. Our hearts go out to the family, friends and co-workers of Chris during this difficult time,” said Great Lakes - Field Intelligence Group Field Director Dave Auwen.

Bacon, 51, stationed at the CBP Air and Marine National Air Security Operations Center in Grand Forks was involved in a vehicle accident on Highway two while on duty near Crookston, MN at approximately 1:00 p.m. on Thursday afternoon, which resulted in his death. No other fatalities or serious injuries were reported at the scene.

Bacon was a 22-year veteran of U.S. Customs and Border Protection and began his career in 1995 as a Border Patrol Agent. Chris also served as an Air Enforcement Agent before transitioning to his current position with the CBP Office of Intelligence. Chris leaves behind his wife and four children.

Minnesota State Troopers are currently investigating the accident.

Over the last few weeks, the Department hosted webinars to provide information on DHS career opportunities, effective resume writing, and navigating USAJOBS. DHS must recruit, develop, and retain a talented and diverse workforce.  

As part of this focus, DHS will host a law enforcement recruitment and hiring event (see details below) to fill hundreds of mission critical positions in law enforcement and non-law enforcement.  U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will be hiring for positions, such as Customs and Border Protection Officers GS-5/7/9, Border Patrol Agents GS-5/7/9, Air Interdiction Agents GS-11/12/13, Marine Interdiction Agents GS-9/11/12, and numerous non-law enforcement positions.  For a complete list of non-law enforcement positions click here

Some positions are located in Texas and locations nationwide.

When:  June 26, 2018, 12–8 p.m. (local time)

             June 27, 2018, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. (local time)

Where: Arlington Convention Center

              1200 Ballpark Way

              Arlington, TX 76011

We will hold a variety of career workshops, panels, and exhibits during the event, where participants can learn more about DHS and CBP, its mission, and Components. Note: attendees assume all travel and accommodation expenses.

Border Patrol Agent, CBP Officer, and Air & Marine Operations recruiters will conduct orientation (Day-in-the-Life of an officer/agent), Human Resources personnel will be on hand to determine qualifications and perform resume reviews, and security personnel providing background /polygraph overview.

Two ways to be considered for hiring/recruiting opportunities:

• In person – Come to the event and meet with CBP recruiters, subject matter experts, hiring managers and HR personnel. CBP will be hiring for GS-9 CBP Officers and GL-9 Border Patrol Agents, qualified and interested applicants can receive on-the-spot tentative job offers.  For non-law enforcement positions, attendees qualified by using Special Hiring Authorities for Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities will have the opportunity to speak with hiring managers and recruiters and, if qualified, interview for open positions. Attendees should bring their resume and any additional applicable documents (veterans’ DD-214, transcripts, etc.).  To pre-register and schedule your interview applicants must send the required documents to the appropriate email listed on the DHS Event Table.  
   
  CBP will also be recruiting for GS-5/7 CBP Officers, GL-5/7 Border Patrol Agents, GS-11/12/13 Air Interdiction Agents (pilots), and GS-9/11/12 Marine Interdiction Agents. Computers will be available with HR personnel to assist in the on-line application process. Attendees should bring their resume and any additional applicable documents (veterans’ DD-214, transcripts, etc.).
   
• Virtual – If you are unable to attend the event, a similar process is available. CBP will be hiring for GS-9 CBP Officers and GL-9 Border Patrol Agents, qualified and interested applicants can receive on-the-spot tentative job offers.  For non-law enforcement positions, virtual attendees qualified by using Special Hiring Authorities for Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities will have the opportunity to virtually speak with hiring managers and recruiters and, if qualified, virtually interview for open positions. To pre-register and schedule your interview applicants must send the required documents to the appropriate email listed on the DHS Event Table.

• Walk-ins are welcomed.
   
• You can apply now and wait to determine if you qualify or attend the event in person or virtual and receive results same day.  https://www.cbp.gov/careers/apply-now  
   

Please reference that you heard about the position from the DHS event in Arlington, TX

Please spread the word with your family, friends, and professional networks. To learn more, visit www.dhs.gov/recruitment.

For more information on career opportunities at CBP, please visit www.cbp.gov/careers.

Topics Include:

• Searching for the Best - CBP ramps up its hiring efforts
• Fighting the Ivory Trade
• Marine Life
• Around the Agency

Come speak with CBP recruiters and learn more about CBP career opportunities!  CBP is recruiting hundreds of mission-critical positions --in both law enforcement and non-law enforcement roles.  These positions include Customs and Border Protection Officers GS-5/7/9, Border Patrol Agents GS-5/7/9, Air Interdiction Agents GS-11/12/13, Marine Interdiction Agents GS-9/11/12, and numerous professional support staff positions, such as Information Technology Specialists. For a complete list of non-law enforcement positions click here.  Job opportunities are located nationwide, including Texas.

When:  June 26, 2018, 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (local time)
              June 27, 2018, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (local time)

Where:  Arlington Convention Center
               1200 Ballpark Way
               Arlington, TX 76011

How:  During the recruitment event, you can speak with CBP recruiters to learn more about each job and about CBP’s exciting and complex mission.  CBP’s Human Resources personnel will also be on hand to help determine qualifications and perform resume reviews, and CBP’s background security personnel will offer an overview of the background investigation and polygraph requirements. Qualified and interested applicants can receive on-the-spot tentative job offers!  Walk-ins are welcomed!  You can also apply now and wait to determine if you qualify, or attend the event in person-- or virtually-- and receive results same day.  https://www.cbp.gov/careers/apply-now

What to Bring:  Attendees should bring their resume and any additional applicable documents (veterans’ DD-214, transcripts, etc.). 

There are two ways to be considered for hiring/recruiting opportunities:

• In person – Come to the event and meet with CBP recruiters, subject matter experts, hiring managers and HR personnel. Walk-ins are welcome! CBP will be hiring for GS-9 CBP Officers and GL-9 Border Patrol Agents.  Qualified and interested applicants can receive on-the-spot tentative job offers.  For non-law enforcement positions, attendees qualified by using Special Hiring Authorities for Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities will have the opportunity to speak with hiring managers and recruiters and, if qualified, interview for open positions. Attendees should bring their resume and any additional applicable documents (veterans’ DD-214, transcripts, etc.).  To pre-register and schedule your interview, applicants must send the required documents to the appropriate email listed on the DHS Law Enforcement Recruitment and Hiring Event Table.  Attendees assume all travel and accommodation expenses.
• CBP will also be recruiting for GS-5/7 CBP Officers, GL-5/7 Border Patrol Agents, GS-11/12/13 Air Interdiction Agents (pilots), and GS-9/11/12 Marine Interdiction Agents. HR personnel and computers will be available to assist in the on-line application process. Attendees should bring their resume and any additional applicable documents (veterans’ DD-214, transcripts, etc.).
• Virtual – If you are unable to attend the event, a similar process is available. CBP will be hiring for GS-9 CBP Officers and GL-9 Border Patrol Agents, qualified and interested applicants can receive on-the-spot tentative job offers.  For non-law enforcement positions, virtual attendees qualified by using Special Hiring Authorities for Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities will have the opportunity to virtually speak with hiring managers and recruiters and, if qualified, virtually interview for open positions. To pre-register and schedule your interview applicants must send the required documents to the appropriate email listed on the DHS Law Enforcement Recruitment and Hiring Event Table.
• You can apply now and wait to determine if you qualify or attend the event in person or virtual and receive results same day.  https://www.cbp.gov/careers/apply-now  
   

Please reference that you heard about the position from the DHS event in Arlington, TX.

Please spread the word with your family, friends, and professional networks. To learn more, visit www.dhs.gov/recruitment.

For more information on career opportunities at CBP, please visit www.cbp.gov/careers.

ATLANTA– A Florida man and a woman from India are alive and recovering after recently collapsing at the international baggage claim area of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). On both occasions, U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) officers initiated Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and used an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) to successfully resuscitate the travelers.

Andy LaChance, 81, and his wife arrived at ATL on June 19 from Paris, when he collapsed as he waited for his luggage. Nearby CBP officers arrived and began CPR, co-workers ran to grab the closest AED and call 911. Atlanta CBP officers maintained life-saving efforts that included the use of the AED delivering shocks to the unconscious LaChance.

“When someone’s heart stops, immediate initiation of proper CPR is critical to a positive outcome,” said Lieutenant Zachary Spears, Atlanta Fire and Rescue, whose crew responded to the medical call. “These travelers may not be alive today without the quality of care given by CBP officers and airport first responders.”

One week later, CBP officers again used life-saving efforts to help a 35-year-old woman, who collapsed in the international baggage claim area at ATL on June 27 after traveling with her family from India. In moments, nearby CBP officers arrived to begin CPR and used the AED to save her life. She regained a heartbeat and was breathing in the ambulance while being transported to an area hospital for further care.

On both occasions, Atlanta Fire and Rescue paramedics arrived, provided advance care and transported them to an area medical center for treatment.

“Our officers are trained for many responses,” said Carey Davis, Atlanta Area Port Director. “Their life-saving actions are a testament to the service and care CBP delivers.”

Almost a million times each day, CBP officers welcome international travelers into the U.S.  In screening both foreign visitors and returning U.S. citizens, CBP uses a variety of techniques to intercept narcotics, unreported currency, weapons, prohibited agriculture, and other illicit products, and to assure that global tourism remains safe and strong. 

To learn more about CBP, visit CBP Snapshot and CBP.

WASHINGTON—U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) held its annual Commissioner’s Awards Ceremony on Wednesday to recognize employees for remarkable deeds and accomplishments for the period of October 1, 2016 to December 31, 2017, in five categories: Leadership, Invictus, Integrity, Heroism and Valor.

“As Commissioner, my greatest honor is working alongside the outstanding men and women of CBP, and yesterday I recognized eight exceptional personnel who demonstrated the highest level of commitment to protect and serve the United States last year,” said Commissioner Kevin McAleenan. “Beyond yesterday’s ceremony, I recognized a total of 252 employees with Commissioner’s Awards for their unwavering commitment, their selfless dedication to duty and exceptional service to our mission and the American people in 2017.”

This year’s recipients are:

• Leadership Award
  • Vernon Foret, Area Port Director, Area Port of New Orleans, Louisiana
  • Ann “Erin” Mercer, Project Manager, Office of Facilities and Asset Management, San Diego, California
• Invictus Award
  • Salvador Sanchez, Border Patrol Agent, U.S. Border Patrol, Imperial, California
  • Anthony Stokes, Aviation Enforcement Officer, Air and Marine Operations, Jacksonville, Florida
• Integrity Award
  • Rene Guajardo, CBP Officer, Office of Field Operations, Progreso, Texas
• Medal of Honor for Heroism Award
  • Israel Borjas, Border Patrol Agent, U.S. Border Patrol, El Paso, Texas
• Meritorious Service Award for Valor
  • Matthew J. Matrosky, Air Interdiction Agent, Air and Marine Operations, Yuma, Arizona
  • Benjamin Lopez, CBP Officer, Office of Field Operations, El Paso Field Office

The Leadership Award recognizes a supervisor for outstanding leadership ability who best exemplified leadership competencies to forward the mission of CBP.

During the 2017 hurricane season, Area Port Director (APD) Foret oversaw emergency response efforts in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands during Hurricanes Irma and Maria. APD Floret and his team worked around the clock to perform wellness checks, conduct rescue operations, reinstitute the supply chain to the islands and perform other critical humanitarian efforts.

Ms. Mercer managed several high profile projects, including the expansion of the Air and Marine Operations Center (AMOC) in Riverside, CA. As a direct result of Ms. Mercer’s commitment and the skill she applied to the expansion of AMOC, the project was completed 18 months ahead of schedule.

The Invictus Award recognizes employees who have triumphed over personal tragedy.

On July 26, 2017, Border Patrol Agent Sanchez experienced a seizure after returning from work. Following two brain surgeries, Agent Sanchez had no movement on the entire left side of his body. He is currently detailed to the El Centro Sector Honorfit Program and participates as a CrossFit Instructor where he plans daily workouts, assists others during workouts, offers nutritional guidance and the modification of workouts to assist those with limitations. Agent Sanchez has made his health a priority through healthy meal planning and rigorous workout routines. He maintains a strong mental attitude and does not let his body give in to any of his discomforts. Agent Sanchez’s commitment to his own health and recovery has served as a tremendous motivator and inspiration to the workforce.

Aviation Enforcement Agent Stokes was shot on September 26, 2017, by an 18-year-old who was about to go to jail for selling drugs. Despite tremendous pain and suffering, Agent Stokes fought to survive and then displayed incredible resilience throughout his 100 physical therapy sessions. He has since returned to work to make a continued impact at CBP.

The Integrity Award recognizes an employee who clearly demonstrated work habits and devotion to integrity that are above reproach and exemplified by CBP’s core values and ethical standards while on duty.

On August 14, 2017, CBP Officer Guajardo was tasked with relieving a former CBP Officer from his vehicle primary commitment when questionable actions by the former officer were relayed via electronic systems. Officer Guajardo quickly took control of the situation, ensuring that the vehicle and passengers in question were appropriately screened. Once in secondary inspection, one of the passengers attempted to flee into Mexico but was apprehended and arrested. During questioning, it became apparent that one of the passengers had paid the former officer to allow vehicles through without proper inspection. Officer Guajardo’s quick thinking and actions were instrumental in the federal prosecution of a corrupt CBP Officer.

The Medal of Honor for Heroism Award is awarded to an employee or any individual/citizen supporting CBP who performed an act of extraordinary bravery, gallantry or valor while on or off duty. The act performed must be: above and beyond the call of duty; present an imminent and personal danger to life; and the individual must have knowledge of the risks involved and voluntarily assume them. This is CBP’s highest valor award.

On October 31, 2017, Border Patrol Agent Borjas was conducting maintenance near a storm drain when he heard a male voice call out for help from inside the drain. Agent Borjas and his teammates lifted the drain cover and observed a male subject who stated his wife was inside the storm drain and unable to move because of a broken ankle. Agent Borjas voluntarily and without hesitation entered the storm drain and located the injured female. The tunnel height prevented Agent Borjas from walking out with the woman, even in a crouched position, so he picked up the injured woman and placed her on his back. Crawling on his hands and knees on uneven, rugged surfaces through a tight storm drain with limited lighting, Agent Borjas carried the injured and severely dehydrated woman to safety, despite the danger posed to himself.

The Meritorious Service Award for Valor recognizes an employee who demonstrated exceptional courage while on or off duty and displayed valor in a dangerous, life-threatening situation involving efforts to save another person’s life or the protection of property.

On February 16, 2018, Air Interdiction Agent Matrosky was the Pilot in Command of an EC120 Light Enforcement Helicopter assigned to a routine aviation patrol when his crew member became unresponsive. Suddenly, the crew member’s body began to shake uncontrollably, making contact with the flight controls of the aircraft. As Agent Matrosky fought for control of the aircraft, he was able to maintain focus and request medical assistance for his crew member. Agent Matrosky elected to land on Arizona State Route 85, where a Border Patrol agent met the aircraft and transferred the crew member into a U.S. Border Patrol vehicle for transportation to a local hospital. The entire event, from the crew member becoming unresponsive to landing the aircraft safely on the ground, lasted just four minutes. The event demonstrates Agent Matrosky’s courage and leadership, and exemplifies crew resource management through adverse conditions.

On August 18, 2017, CBP Officer Lopez was performing primary inspection duties at the Paso Del Norte in Port of El Paso when he encountered a distraught and suicidal traveler. The traveler approached Officer Lopez, removed a box cutter from his pocket, then held the blade up to his own throat and threatened to kill himself. Officer Lopez decisively reached out and took control of the subject’s hand, removing the box cutter from his possession. After disarming the subject, he secured the subject and escorted him to a holding area where the subject was kept under observation until emergency medical personnel and local authorities could respond. Officer Lopez demonstrated exceptional courage and valor in a dangerous, life-threatening situation for himself and members of the traveling public.

The individuals recognized yesterday are among a total of 252 recipients of a Commissioner’s Award for demonstrating the highest level of commitment to protect and serve the U.S. and exemplify the values of CBP.

Additional photos from Wednesday's event are available on CBP's Flickr page: https://www.flickr.com/gp/cbpphotos/SU08dZ

Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) offers the following report for Fiscal Years 2016 and 2017 as well as an overview of key statistics regarding misconduct and corruption. The purpose of this report is to increase transparency and awareness of CBP’s efforts to prevent, detect, and investigate misconduct and corruption among CBP employees and to highlight examples of the breadth and depth of work OPR does on behalf of the entire CBP workforce.

Related Content: 

• CBP Discipline Overview Fiscal Years 2016 and 2017
• CBP Discipline Overview Fiscal Year 2015

U.S. Customs and Border Protection leaders, employees and their families from around the country gathered in Washington, D.C., Wednesday to recognize and honor the highest achievements, unwavering dedication and acts of courage during the past year.

While CBP’s workforce is known for commendable acts and accomplishments, 252 law enforcement and mission support professionals received honors for exceptional performance by CBP Commissioner McAleenan. Another eight were honored in five categories: leadership, invictus, integrity, heroism and valor.

Seven of those eight accepted their awards from Commissioner Kevin McAleenan and Acting Deputy Commissioner Robert Perez at the Commissioner’s Annual Awards Ceremony.

“It is always difficult to select these recipients each year because we have such an abundance of outstanding nominees,” said Commissioner McAleenan, presiding in his first awards ceremony since becoming CBP Commissioner. “I have visited CBP’s operations all over our country. In every field office and port, in every sector and station, I’m constantly struck by how energized the men and women of CBP are by our mission and how focused they are on the important — and often difficult — tasks at hand.”

The following agents, officers and mission support employees received tributes:

Leadership Award

• Ann “Erin” Mercer, project manager, Office of Facilities and Asset Management, San Diego

Mercer is credited with leading the expansion of the Air and Marine Operations Center at March Air Reserve Base in Riverside, California; the Brown Field Border Patrol Station for 400 agents; and the Interstate-8 checkpoint, that won the Department of Homeland Security Sustainability Award.

• Vernon Foret, former New Orleans area port director, Office of Field Operations, and recently selected as executive director of the National Targeting Center.

Foret volunteered to oversee the emergency response during Hurricanes Irma and Maria in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. He and his team worked around the clock performing more than 1,500 wellness checks and spent four days assisting seven orphanages located in dangerous, isolated areas and re-established supply chains. He also led the effort to bring fuel, water, food and generators to the islands.

Invictus Award

Invictus is Latin for “unconquerable” and recognizes employees who have triumphed over personal tragedy.

• Anthony Stokes, aviation enforcement agent, Air and Marine Operations, Jacksonville, Florida

Stokes was nearly killed on Sept. 26, 2017, after being shot by an 18-year-old drug pusher. He embraced a survival mindset. His dedication and determination to get through a painful recovery and return to the job was nothing short of remarkable.

• Salvador Sanchez, U.S. Border Patrol agent, Imperial, California

Returning home from work on July 26, 2017, Sanchez had a seizure, and doctors discovered two cysts along with a malignant tumor in his brain. After two surgeries to remove the tumor, he couldn’t move the left side of his body. Sanchez not only committed himself to recovery but went on to become a CrossFit instructor, performing daily workouts and offering nutritional guidance as well as assisting those with physical limitations. His fortitude and strength to overcome a personal tragedy became an inspiration to others.

Integrity Award

• Rene Guarjardo, CBP officer, Office of Field Operations, Progreso, Texas

On Aug. 14, 2017, Guarjardo became suspicious when a fellow officer quickly cleared a vehicle into the United States. Relying on his intuition, he detained the vehicle containing a driver and passenger for further inspection. The driver became hesitant while questioned, and the passenger bolted from the vehicle but was apprehended as he ran toward Mexico. Guarjado’s quick thinking not only resulted in the arrest of a criminal alien passenger but revealed that the driver and the other officer were smuggling aliens into the United States.

Heroism Award

• Israel Borjas, U.S. Border Patrol agent, El Paso, Texas

On Oct. 31, 2017, Borjas heard a call for help coming from a storm drain. He lifted the drain cover and spotted an alien who said his wife was stuck in the tunnel with a broken ankle. Without hesitation, Borjas moved in a crouched position 100 yards into the tight passage and came upon the injured and dehydrated woman. With extraordinary bravery, he placed the woman on his back and crawled on his hands and knees along a rugged surface with limited light to bring the woman to safety, saving her life while risking his own.

Valor Award

• Benjamin Lopez, CBP officer, Office of Field Operations, El Paso Field Office

On Aug. 18, 2017, a distraught traveler approached Lopez. The man removed a box cutter from his pocket, held it to his throat and threatened to kill himself. Risking his own life, Lopez calmly persuaded the man from killing himself, seized his hand and removed the box cutter. He then escorted the traveler to a holding area where he was kept under observation until emergency medical personnel and local authorities took control.  Lopez’s decisive action defused a life-threatening situation to himself, the traveler and those around him.

• Matthew Matrosky, air interdiction agent, Air and Marine Operations, Yuma, Arizona

On Feb. 16, 2018, Matrosky was piloting his helicopter with another crewmember who experienced a medical emergency. The crewmember was looking upward and unresponsive, and Matrosky was just 200 feet from the ground. He then started shaking violently, interfering with the aircraft’s controls as Matrosky struggled to control the aircraft. Then his body went limp and he collapsed on the controls. Matrosky focused on flying the helicopter and landed on a highway, where the crewmember was aided by the Border Patrol and brought to an awaiting ambulance.

Newton-Azrak Award

Named after Border Patrol Agents Theodore Newton and George Azrak who were kidnapped and murdered by four smugglers in 1967, this U.S. Border Patrol award recognizes unusual courage, bravery and heroic or humane acts.

• Osbaldo Rios, U.S. Border Patrol agent, Tucson, Arizona

On Sept. 13, 2017, Rios and two other agents responded to a ground sensor in a remote canyon about 15 miles north of Mexico and came upon five suspected illegal aliens who ran in many directions. Three were apprehended while Rios and his partner agent pursued the other two. His partner grabbed one suspect who was running down a steep embankment. They both then rolled down the hill with the suspect landing on top of the agent, hitting him several times, taking his gun, and pointed it at the agent. Rios yelled at the subject who then turned the weapon on Rios. Rios quickly shot him, preventing his partner and himself from being killed or injured.

LAREDO, Texas– On September 1, 2017, the Laredo Sector Border Patrol conducted a promotion ceremony honoring over 40 Border Patrol agents and support staff. Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jason D. Owens presented the honorees with new badges and certificates. The ranks recognized included Patrol Agent in Charge, Deputy Patrol Agent in Charge, Special Operations Supervisors, Supervisory Border Patrol Agents and support staff of all levels.

The promotion ceremony recognized the achievements of agents and personnel that are part of the United States Border Patrol. Their advancements are the result of hard work and dedication displayed by the agents and personnel during the execution of their assigned duties. By performing above and beyond the acceptable standard, these agents and staff have earned the honor of assuming leadership roles within the Border Patrol ranks.

The ceremony included the presentation of colors by the Laredo Sector Border Patrol Honor Guard, the presentations of badges and certificates, and concluded with Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jason D. Owens providing closing remarks.

The Laredo Border Patrol Sector currently has over 1,600 Border Patrol Agents and over 100 support personnel.If you are interested in a challenging and rewarding career visit www.cbp.gov/careers.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Office of Professional Responsibility OPR), Security Management Division (SMD) is tasked with implementing the provisions of Title 18, United States Code (U.S.C.) §926C, “Carrying of Concealed Firearms by Qualified Retired Law Enforcement Officers” (Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act of 2004, as amended) for retired or separated CBP law enforcement officers (LEOs).

About the CBP LEOSA Program

To lawfully carry a concealed firearm under LEOSA, qualified LEOs:

1. Must have their CBP-issued “LEOSA photographic identification” and their current annual state firearms test certification as required in their possession at all times when they are carrying a concealed firearm under LEOSA authority.
2. Must remain in compliance with all of the other requirements (set out above) of LEOSA concerning being a “qualified retired law enforcement officer” who is not “prohibited by federal law from receiving a firearm.”
3. The required CBP-issued “LEOSA photographic identification” is only for the purpose of identifying them as being a retired or separated from service LEO from CBP or its predecessor agency.  The CBP LEOSA photographic identification does not:

1. Confer law enforcement status;
2. Confer arrest authority;
3. Authorize qualified retired LEO to engage in any law enforcement activities or investigations; or
4. Does not authorize bearer to carry firearm on a commercial airplane or where otherwise prohibited by specific Federal, State, or local laws

Questions:

OPR/SMD is responsible for establishing CBP’s LEOSA Program and the implementation of CBP’s LEOSA policies and procedures. For questions related to LEOSA, contact OPR/SMD at cbp_LEOSA@cbp.dhs.gov.

LAREDO, Texas– On September 1, 2017, the Laredo Sector Border Patrol conducted a promotion ceremony honoring over 40 Border Patrol agents and support staff. Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jason D. Owens presented the honorees with new badges and certificates. The ranks recognized included Patrol Agent in Charge, Deputy Patrol Agent in Charge, Special Operations Supervisors, Supervisory Border Patrol Agents and support staff of all levels.

The promotion ceremony recognized the achievements of agents and personnel that are part of the United States Border Patrol. Their advancements are the result of hard work and dedication displayed by the agents and personnel during the execution of their assigned duties. By performing above and beyond the acceptable standard, these agents and staff have earned the honor of assuming leadership roles within the Border Patrol ranks.

The ceremony included the presentation of colors by the Laredo Sector Border Patrol Honor Guard, the presentations of badges and certificates, and concluded with Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jason D. Owens providing closing remarks.

The Laredo Border Patrol Sector currently has over 1,600 Border Patrol Agents and over 100 support personnel.If you are interested in a challenging and rewarding career visit www.cbp.gov/careers.

The Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act of 2004 (LEOSA), exempts a “qualified retired law enforcement officer” carrying a LEOSA photographic identification, such as CBP LEOSA Identification or CBP retired/separated LEO credentials, along with an annual state firearms test certification, from most state and local laws prohibiting the carriage of concealed firearms.

How to Apply:

Qualified retired or separated CBP law enforcement officers may apply for an optional LEOSA Photographic Identification by completing the application linked below.

REMINDER:  If you are emailing your completed CBP LEOSA application package, you must password protect all documents containing personally identifiable information (PII), and send your password via a separate email.

LEOSA Application

LEOSA Fact Sheet

How to Password Protect PDF Documents

Questions:

For LEOSA Photographic Identification questions, contact CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility, Security Management Division at cbp_LEOSA@cbp.dhs.gov

ST.THOMAS, Virgin Islands – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced the today the appointment of Todd Bellew as the Area Port Director; the highest-ranking officer for the San Juan Office of Field Operations within the U.S. Virgin Islands.  

“Mr. Bellew’s experience, operational background, and leadership skills make him well suited for this management position,” stated Alfonso Robles, Director of Field Operations for Puerto Rico and the U. S. Virgin Islands.  “I am certain that he will continue to represent the San Juan Field Office and CBP with the utmost professionalism and integrity.”

Mr. Bellew has over 16 years of federal service, beginning his career with the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service as an Immigration Inspector in St. Thomas.  He has held a number of leadership positions of increasing responsibility, including those of Supervisory CBP Officer, Assistant Area Port Director, and Acting Area Port Director. 

CBP has a complex mission at ports of entry with broad law enforcement authorities tied to screening all foreign visitors, returning American citizens and imported cargo that enters the U.S. at more than 300 land, air and sea ports.

BRUNSWICK, GA. – A U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Instructor was awarded the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) Director's Life Saving Award for his rapid actions in saving a man’s life following a suicide attempt off the St. Simons Island Pier.

The ceremony was held Thursday at the CBP Field Operations Academy in Brunswick, Georgia.

While off duty in late November, Supervisory Customs and Border Protection Officer Shelby Shipman, who currently serves as an Instructor in the Physical Techniques Division at FLETC was visiting the St. Simons Island Pier, when he noted a pilot boat had arrived with an injured man lying in a pool of blood.  Moments earlier the man had attempted suicide by cutting his wrist and plunging off the pier.

“Supervisor Shipman utilizing his critical training and skills to save human life exemplifies the boundless dedication and expertise our Instructors deliver every day as they train the CBP Officers of tomorrow.” said Christopher Holtzer, CBP Field Operations Academy Director.

Supervisor Shipman utilized his skills as a Tactical Medical Instructor to apply the emergency tourniquet he carried while subduing the struggling man to successfully control the bleeding.   

Kyle Brown, a firefighter/paramedic with the Glynn County Fire Department was quick to credit the assistance of a well-prepared off-duty instructor from the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in successfully saving the man’s life.  “Not too many guys carry a tourniquet in their pocket, but we were fortunate.”

Federal Law Enforcement Training Center trains the majority of federal officers and agents in the United States.  In addition to providing training for over 90 federal partner organizations, FLETC also provides training to state, local, tribal and international police in selected advanced programs; graduating more than 70,000 students annually. FLETC is the largest law enforcement training organization in the country, headquartered on a 1,600-acre campus at Glynco, near Brunswick.

A U.S. Border Patrol agent was named Officer of the Year and CBP Acting Commissioner Mark Morgan described how hard drug seizures have spiked as marijuana seizures fell over the last fiscal year in his remarks Oct. 27 at the International Association of Chiefs of Police annual conference and exposition in Chicago.

That influx of dangerous drugs is a key reason why U.S. Customs and Border Protection must remain vigilant, he pointed out. At ports of entry, heroin seizures were up 8%, while fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine seizures shot up to 30%, statistics that match what many communities beyond the border are experiencing.

Gangs that make up much of the transnational criminal organizations are linked by networks that operate throughout the country and typically oversee domestic distribution down to the street level, he explained. In addition to drugs, they’re responsible for trafficking firearms and people. “Border arrests of criminals and gang members nationwide totaled 976 in fiscal 2018, up 20%,” Acting Commissioner Morgan said.

To keep their contraband flowing across the border, criminals rely on sophisticated and clever conveyances. In San Ysidro, California, officers discovered 77 pounds of fentanyl under the floorboards of an SUV. In Otay Mesa, California, 134 pounds of cocaine lurked in the gas tanks of a semi truck and $500,000 worth of meth and fentanyl was packed into a modified ultralight aircraft abandoned in the desert after crossing from Mexico. The criminals also take advantage of the humanitarian crisis on the Southwest border using groups of families and children to divert attention from their smuggling activities.

Acting Commissioner Morgan cited fentanyl, one of the most potent and difficult to seize illicit drug because the substance is easily concealed in small packages and smuggled though international mail and express consignments. Much of the fentanyl shipments come from China. Recently, he was in Beijing and reached out to Chinese customs officials to work in partnership with CBP to crackdown on these mailings.

While difficult to make a direct correlation, fentanyl seizures in the mail have declined significantly, he said.

Meanwhile, Border Patrol Agent Jonathan Morales was honored for pursuing a gunman who burst into a Poway, California, synagogue back in April spewing anti-Semitic rants and opening fire on the congregation. One worshiper died and several were wounded. Morales, who was off-duty and attending the service, immediately confronted the attacker and fired at him as he fled. For his courage, Morales was chosen Officer of the Year.

In support of CBP’s efforts, President Trump signed into law the International Narcotics Trafficking Emergency Response by Detecting Incoming Contraband with Technology Act, better known as the INTERDICT Act. This gives CBP the money to research new ways to detect and intercept synthetic opioids.

President Trump keynoted the convention and recognized the Acting Commissioner, Agent Morales, the Border Patrol and the entire agency for working to keep America safe and announced his administration will support law enforcement with $600 million in surplus military equipment.

“We are all safer because we get out every single day to do something better than ourselves,” Acting Commissioner Morgan said when he shared the podium with the President. “Thank you to all who put on a badge and protect our country.” That protection also calls for a more fortified border, he noted. “We will be building 400 miles of that big, beautiful wall by 2020,” he said, and acknowledged the president’s support for law enforcement. “When he says he loves us, it’s heartfelt and he means it, and we’re stronger for it.”

In August 2017, Joe Roche went to Houston to help in the recovery from the record rains and floods of Hurricane Harvey. The management and program analyst from U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s headquarters in Washington, D.C., made the trip as part of the Surge Capacity Force – a group of Department of Homeland Security employees who volunteered to go to areas devastated by natural disasters to help in recovery. During his time in eastern Texas, he worked on logistics and did damage assessments for people making claims to the Federal Emergency Management Agency – better known as FEMA – to get aid to rebuild their lives.

“Every day, we were delivering supplies and meeting with people,” he said, adding the force eventually switched to mitigation efforts. “That meant actually going to the homes and doing significant damage estimates for FEMA: what people’s situations were, what help had they gotten, what did they need. In a disaster, everything is at issue: lost cars, lost property, lost touch with other people. It was quite overwhelming.”

Almost two years to the day Hurricane Harvey drenched that part of Texas, Roche returned to Houston, but this time as a different kind of volunteer, a volunteer for the non-profit Team Rubicon. The group of military veterans and first responders rapidly deploys as emergency response teams to provide relief to those hit by disasters, immediately after and sometimes years later.

“It was like seeing the bookends of that disaster,” said Roche, an eight-year, U.S. Army combat veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan. “Two years later, we’re still finding where people still hadn’t been able to get back into their homes, despite help from the federal and state governments. Team Rubicon is now targeting low-income families in the hardest hit areas.”

The group is rebuilding the flooded houses for free, sometimes from the ground up. Roche said when you see people finally able to get back in their homes, it really tugs at the heartstrings.

“It’s really quite an amazing thing to see that experience,” he said. “For them, the nightmare of two years is over.”

And the reward is not just for those hit by natural disasters.

“Some people might think of it as draining,” Roche said. “But there is something very rewarding about being able to give back to these communities.”

Roche said volunteering for the charity gives many veterans, such as himself, a chance to reconnect with the training and the people from military service.

“We all have this training from when we were in the service; do we just put that in a closet? I’m getting a chance to use it again,” he said. “It’s also nice to get together with combat vets (a large portion of the group). It’s like I’m back with those I served with in Baghdad and Kandahar. There’s a good feeling to that.”

Roche was back on the road with Team Rubicon in October – this time headed for the Bahamas to help people devastated by Hurricane Dorian. In the two weeks he was in the islands, he saw nearly unimaginable destruction as he served as a strike team leader for the group, working in the most Spartan of conditions.

“Many of us slept outside, as did I the whole time, though partially under a roof, yet I got rained on almost every night and day,” he said. “Clothes hand-washed, never dried, bugs galore, heavy rains. You name it; it all happened.”

The work in the Bahamas included supporting local communities and assisting survivors to begin the process of recovery, and partnering with local officials to assist aid distribution, and help restore schools, churches, hospitals and community centers.

Roche said sometimes while team members took a lunch break of military rations, they tried to process all they witnessed: odors of dead carcasses and rotting debris, and constantly trying to comfort people who have gone through a hell on earth.

“It’s a bit much,” he said. “Everything is wet, we stink like crap, but we are all volunteers. Could be anywhere else. But this is the call we answered.”

He credits his coworkers back in Washington, D.C., for helping pick up the slack in the office while he’s away, and he hopes he can continue to help others who lose so much. Just before leaving for the Bahamas, while he packed up his personal gear, as well as another suitcase full of relief supplies he handed out to locals, Roche said he tries not to overthink what could be waiting for him, as he knows they’ll be living in pretty rough conditions. He just wants to face the challenges as they come.

“I’ve gone to a few of these just to know that every time you’ve got it figured from the last time, it’s best not to anticipate, but just to arrive and do what you can,” Roche said. “We know that we’re dealing with people on the worst days of their lives; they have no hope, there’s complete devastation. Hopefully, we can turn that around and make it a good day for them as they see help is actually there.”

It was a proud moment for U.S. Customs and Border Protection when the agency gathered in Washington, D.C., at the Ronald Reagan Building on Tuesday to celebrate one of its own—Border Patrol Agent Jonathan J. Morales, who was awarded the Officer of the Year in 2019 by the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the world’s largest professional association for police leaders. Agent Morales is the first law enforcement officer at CBP to receive the prestigious award.

Selected from law enforcement officers throughout the world, Agent Morales was awarded for his heroism and bravery. On April 27, 2019, Morales, a Border Patrol agent stationed at the El Centro Sector in Southern California, was off-duty and attending morning services on the last day of Passover at Chabad of Poway, a Jewish synagogue in Poway, California in San Diego County. Without warning, a man armed with an AR-15 assault rifle entered the synagogue through the front door and opened fire, first in the foyer and then in the sanctuary.

The gunman wounded three people, including the rabbi, and tragically killed Lori Gilbert-Kaye, a courageous woman who shielded the rabbi from the hail of bullets. During a pause in the shooting, after the gunman’s weapon jammed, Agent Morales made his way through the panicked congregants, risking his life, to retrieve a small revolver kept securely by the synagogue just in case the need arose to respond to this type of incident.  

Once armed, Agent Morales ran toward the shooter. The gunman fled the synagogue toward a nearby vehicle parked outside. Agent Morales and another worshipper pursued him. Agent Morales engaged the shooter, hitting the shooter’s car. When he ran out of ammunition, Agent Morales continued to advance toward the gunman, who sped away, only to be apprehended shortly thereafter by the San Diego Police.

“When I learned that Agent Morales stepped up and put himself in harm’s way to protect his friends, his house of worship, and his community from this threat,” I was not surprised,” said U.S. Border Patrol Chief Carla Provost, who served as master of ceremonies at the event. “This is what Border Patrol agents do. The men and women of the Border Patrol have devoted their careers and their lives to safeguard our great nation and put themselves in harm’s way to protect the lives of others. On any

given day, you will find agents, chasing down drug smugglers or administering CPR to people who have succumbed to the elements,” said Provost. “Even when they are off duty, agents are protectors of their communities. So many agents have stopped to offer aid to people stranded on the side of the road or provide first aid at the scene of an accident. Their bravery and heroism do not clock out at the end of a shift. They are agents 24/7.”

In his remarks, CBP Deputy Commissioner Robert Perez commended Agent Morales. “His bravery almost certainly prevented additional lives from being lost that day. His actions absolutely exemplify CBP’s core values,” said Perez.

At the ceremony, CBP Acting Commissioner Mark Morgan spoke about the importance of recognizing heroes. “We don’t hear enough about heroes, the true heroes of this country,” said Morgan. “I think that’s what today is really about—taking just a moment out of our busy lives to step back, take a breath to reflect, to appreciate, to recognize.”

Morgan noted that Agent Morales was humble. “Like most heroes, Jonathan will tell you that he was ‘just doing his job,’” said Morgan. “I think humility is a hallmark of heroism. But we all know that no job in law enforcement is simple, much less easy. It’s a career of service, of selflessness, and of sacrifice. It’s a calling.”

Agent Morales was born and raised in Sacramento, California. He realized he wanted to become a Border Patrol agent while he was attending college. He joined the U.S. Border Patrol in August 2001and was assigned to the El Centro Station in the El Centro Sector. He graduated from the Border Patrol Academy in Glynco, Georgia, with academy class 481.

Agent Morales was awarded by the International Association of Chiefs of Police on October 26, 2019. Since its inception in 1966, the International Association of Chiefs of Police Officer of the Year award has recognized outstanding achievement in law enforcement and has honored heroes who work tirelessly every day to make communities around the world safer.

“This is absolutely a tremendous honor, particularly given the thousands of officers and agents who perform extraordinary acts of heroism every day,” said Perez. “I know that I speak for all of us at CBP when I say how incredibly proud we are of you, Johnny. Thank you for your service. It is an honor to stand alongside of you.”

Agent Morale’s son and daughter accompanied him to the ceremony. The children assisted in unveiling a portrait of their dad that will hang in the entrance to CBP headquarters.  

When Agent Morales took the stage, he was greeted with a standing ovation. “We have this saying in the Border Patrol, “honor first,” said Morales. “Every day we put on our green uniforms and go out and we do our job. It also applies to our personal belief. We have a duty. We don’t hesitate to save another life. It’s an honor, it’s a commandment, it’s a mitzvah to do this.”