In a solemn commemoration blending respect and remembrance, the U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector joined by other law enforcement bodies, paid tribute to the courageous individuals who have died in the service of protecting America's frontiers, reported CBP Newsroom. The ceremony unfolded at the National Border Patrol Museum, marking an annual tradition that reverently acknowledges the sacrifices of the Border Patrol's agents.
Walter N. Slosar, the U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector's Interim Chief Patrol Agent, was among the high-ranking officials present who offered both tribute and solace to the bereaved families of the agents stating, "Today's memorial stands as a solemn tribute, honoring the unwavering dedication and ultimate sacrifice of our fallen Border Patrol agents," Slosar, expressed the collective heartache and the resonance of the agents' heroism "The memories of our agents are forever imprinted in our hearts and are a constant reminder of their heroic service in safeguarding our nation's borders" he elaborated during the occasion, as per the CBP Newsroom.
Since the formation of the U.S. Border Patrol on May 28, 1924, the agency has mourned the loss of 159 of its ranks through acts of valor and duty, all of whom were commemorated by the reading of their names, a poignant bell toll, and a 21-gun salute, the CBP Newsroom detailed the rites of the observance. An aerial homage conducted by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations, El Paso Air Branch with a helicopter fly-over and a symbolic tribute by a riderless horse with its hooves clicking in solemn cadence further marked the day’s events.
It's a poignant annual ritual that aligns with the founding date of the U.S. Border Patrol, having its roots in the El Paso first station, this year’s memorial also incorporated the ceremonious retirement of colors by the El Paso Sector's Border Patrol Honor Guard a gesture steeped in the customs of military and law enforcement agencies to signal the ending of a duty period, signifying that of the fallen agents, who have served their term with honor and dignity.
