TUCSON, ARIZ.—The Tucson Sector Border Patrol is proud to welcome the 1,000th session of the Border Patrol Academy made up of 48 men and women from around the nation.
Originally established in 1924 with 450 patrol inspectors, the United States Border Patrol is tasked with securing the nation's borders between ports of entry. Since 1924, the Patrol has seen significant changes. In 1925, duties were expanded to patrol the seacoast. By 1935, motorized vehicles with radios were added. Following the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, the Border Patrol and other federal entities merged into Customs and Border Protection under the Department of Homeland Security. Today the mission remains the same - secure the nation's borders.
The first patrol inspectors received little on-the-job training and were ill-prepared for the demands of the job. New hires were given a revolver and badge but were expected to provide their own horse and saddle. After trying several locations, today all new agents complete their academy training in Artesia, NM. While at the national academy, candidates undergo five months of intense training including instruction in law, immigration, firearms, driving and physical techniques.
These newly hired agents will begin their career with the Border Patrol as members of Class 1,000. "On this historic occasion, I am privileged to administer the oath of office to the members of class 1,000 as they join us and prepare for the U.S. Border Patrol Academy," said Tucson Sector Chief Patrol Agent Rick Barlow. "These are the individuals who will help lead our organization into the future."
The Border Patrol currently employees more than 20,000 agents nationwide; still tasked with securing America's borders and disrupting any attempt to do harm to our nation.
CBP welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol and remain anonymous by calling (877) 872-7435 toll free.