SEARCHING for the BEST CBP Ramps up Its Hiring Efforts 2 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 Photo Byglennfawcett at Theportofbaltimore,Maryland

VOL 9 • ISSUE 2

SEARCHING FOR THE BEST CBP ramps up its hiring efforts 2 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 Photo byGlennFawcett at thePortofBaltimore,Maryland. Operations conductsatrainingexercise A K-9 officerwithCBP’s OfficeofField We are CBP 26 6

34 26 14 6

AROUND THEAGENCY SEARCHING FORTHEBEST MARINE LIFE FIGHTING THEIVORY TRADE CBP ramps up its hiring efforts CBP rampsupitshiring A look inside the National Marine A lookinsidetheNational Marine Training Center 40 36 34 CBP-trained caninesdefend wildlife in Africa

BORDER WALL MOVINGAHEADWITH CBP’SEXPERTISE NEW BORDERPATROL CHIEFTAKES CHARGE Automaker fraudcomesat import asteepprice learns HEAVY HIT

36 10 Photos andcomposite by Ozzy Trevino 40 14 Contents SEARCHING FORTHE CBP rampsupitshiringefforts BEST COVER VOL 9•ISSUE2

3 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 4 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 Michael J.Michael Friel John F. Kelly Kevin K. McAleenan Laurel Smith To contactFrontline editors withmessages, contributions,or deliveryconcerns, email: The SecretaryofHomeland Securityhasdeterminedthatpublication ofthisperiodicalisnecessaryin thetransactionofpublicbusinessbyCBP EDITOR OFFICE OFPUBLICAFFAIRS ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER(ACTING), U.S. CUSTOMSANDBORDERPROTECTION COMMISSIONER (ACTING), SECRETARY OFHOMELANDSECURITY

Ozzy Trevino ART &DESIGNDIRECTOR Donna Burton,GlennFawcett STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Paul Koscak,MarcyMason STAFF WRITERS Tracie Parker PRODUCTION MANAGER Jason McCammack MANAGING EDITOR [email protected]

. 5 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 6 Photos bymnowicki and Kirill Dorofeev/Shutterstock.com | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 IVORY TRADE FIGHTING DEFENDAFRICA IN WILDLIFE CBP-TRAINED CANINES By PaulKoscak THE

canine handlers were tasked towork with Tanzanian detect ivory. As aresult, CBP’s highly experienced program, particularly how totraintheirdogs assistance indeveloping that country’s canine to formerCommissioner R. GilKerlikowske for the U.S. out EmbassyinDaresSalaamreached Working onbehalfofthe Tanzanian government, CBP stepsup exchange. tourism, amajorsource ofthat nation’s foreign that discourageswith increased crime wildlife elephants at risk, they harm Tanzania’s economy Tanzania, killingthepilot. Poachers notonly put helicopter with inNorthern AK-47 assaultrifles In June2016, they shotdown asurveillance In theirpursuitofwealth, canberuthless. poachers news magazine, The Week. 250 pounds, accordingtoanaccountinBritish per poundandtwo maleelephanttuskscanweigh gold enticespoachers. Ivory upto$1,500 canfetch Staggering in market black prices Asia for thewhite everythingcuring from epilepsytosore throats. ivory. Chinesemedicinealsotoutsground ivory for andexquisite sculptures fashionedornaments from flaunt socialrankand wealth by owning jewelry, In thoseandothernations, ivory isaway to report found. drive demand, Broadcasting Corporation aBritish Philippines and Thailand where status andmoney 70 percentoftheillicitivory trade, followed by the China istheworld’s biggestpeddler, fuelingat least they’ll benoelephantsin Tanzania.” Dar esSalaam. “You caneasily where seeascenario d’Affaires Virginia Blaserat theU.S. Embassyin “Those numbers are justdevastating,” saidChargé 2014. from anestimated 109,000in2009to43,000 elephants for theirivory tusks, reducing theanimals Poachers have killed60percentof Tanzania’s prized There’s in awildlife crisis Tanzania. Embassy coordinated agovernment-wide effort Establishing theprogram wasn’t easy. The U.S. these taskswithoutassistance istheultimate goal. program to where Tanzanian policeaccomplish locate ivory, heroin andcocaine. Elevating Tanzania’s effective ways totrain, maintainandusedogs to offersprogram which Tanzanian policethemost a plantailored tostrengthen thenation’s canine From theirfindings, MontesandSpittlercrafted Effort International train handlersinproblem solving.” as well asproper andhow grooming techniques to weather andkennel conditionsaffect canineability, understand how environmental factors as such Montes said. “And thehandlersneededtobetter program. “There was nomentoropportunity,” Montes andSpittlerfound inthe shortcomings dogs toseewhere improvements were needed. canine program that maintainsabout 45working Royal, Virginia, spentaweek evaluating Tanzania’s Spittler, CBP’s assistantcaninedirector from Front CBP’s canineprogram inElPaso, Texas, and Timothy Assistance beganwhenDamianMontes, director of for at least54countries. assistance.international They’ve provided training This wasn’t offered thefirsttimeCBPinstructors law enforcement tocombat wildlife trafficking. Photo by Tim Ryan for Tanzania’s canineprogram. for heatandroughterrain,ideal Belgian Malinoishavetolerance

7 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 8 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 Division. International Affairs asactingdirector ofthe Africa Reichel, whoservedan18-monthdetailinCBP isimportant,”relationships andtrust saidRon casual conversations tobuild cross-organizational resources. “The value ofusingin-personvisitsand hurdles that hindered collaboration andsharing to overcome somelong-standingbureaucratic enforcement tonetwork across officesand agencies CBP’s encouraged instructors Tanzanian law collaborated andshared resources. and divisionsof Tanzanian law enforcement Tanzanian government theprogram officialsbacked fromsupport Tanzanian law enforcement.” Key support,” Montesexplained. “We hadphenomenal guaranteed by multiple agencies andcountry and operational elementthat required resources “We built anentire logistics, training, delivery governmental organizations. fromsupport the Tanzanian government andnon- canines,transport andfuelwere neededalongwith as potable water, kennels, retrofitting vehicles to the U.S. Fishand Wildlife Service. Basics, such Development, ofDefense theDepartment and that includedtheU.S. Agency for International Photo by Tim Ryan inspector throughacanineexercise. Hopper, right,guidesa Tanzanian customs Office ofFieldOperationshandlerJames

ivory. Teaching canineshow toexaminecontainers, and andrecognize thescentsofdrugs to search They how alsolearned tocommand thecanines firstaid learned for dogs andothermedicalcare. they returned. Tanzania hasfew sothey veterinarians because theofficers would beontheir own when Training emphasizedskillsneededin Tanzania ofFishand Department Wildlife Service. ivory seizedbytusk andsomecrushed theU.S. requires ivory, obtaineda4-foot sotheinstructors Not surprisingly, animalstosniffivory teaching also thefirsttimeCBPtraineddogstodetectivory. Tanzanian officers inhow totraincanines. It was For 30days the andHopperdrilled Gutierrez andcoursedeveloperinstructor BenjaminGutierrez. “the optimaldogtobedeployed in Africa,” said breed withstandsheat andadapts torough terrain, shepherds, were selectedfor thejobbecause Belgian malinois, resemble which German for traininginElPaso. selected four ofitsmostpromising policeofficers inMayWhen theprogram launched 2015, Tanzania Training begins family.” concerns. “We asstrangersandhave started become time, about learning theirfamilies andpersonal became closetothe Tanzanian that officersduring cadre,”instructor said, Gutierrez notinghow he “It’s oftheir beenanhonortobepart truly of theplan. intelligence andbuilding confidence were alsopart Enforcing Tanzania’s ban, poaching gathering Hopper said. will work at both Tanzania’s seaport andairport, luggage andobjectswas stressed sincetheofficers wildlife populations,” he said. our government toensure ofthesebig thesurvival the U.S. government istaking tocooperate with and officials. “We deeply appreciate efforts that Maghembe addressed thevisitors andCBP’s trainers From hispodiumontheothersideofrunway, spectators applauded. the prize, about afoot-long whiteplasticpipe. The intothecontainer andheldup The officer reached next toabox. Suddenly, thecanine’s gustoceasedanditquickly sat move.explained each soundingmore likeA narrator announcer, asports every box, sniffingceaselessly noses. withupturned panted. They between, darted around andontopof forward oneat atime. They probed. They pried. They Tugging hardontheirleashes, themalinoisrushed along thelane, onecontainingsimulated contraband. a show ofprowess. Several boxes were spread out dogs, oneat atime, runway alongagreen carpet in fitted withwhitesatin covers ashandlersguidedthe Officials andguestssat undera blue tentonseats and Tourism. Resources Jumanne Maghembe, theministerofNatural government inastately ceremony officiated by canines were officially presented tothe Tanzanian home,When theofficers returned the four trained The celebration That’s what CBPhelpsthemtorealize.” those policeofficershave withtheircaninepartners. oftheprogram rests withtherelationshipsecurity training in Texas,” recalled Chargé Blaser. “The were soexcitedtoseethedogsagain afterthe than working animals. “The four Tanzanian handlers For theofficers, theircaninesbecamemore friends manage theseobjectives, Spittlerexplained. Tanzanian law enforcement canindependently theseskillsisthegoal.can teach Successiswhen who along withbuilding acadre ofinstructors Understanding proper caninecare andtraining to to return to assesstheprogram’sAfrica progress. Paso trainingandSpittlerMontes for instructor The plancallsfor two toEl oftheofficersto return will rebound support. withtheinternational wildlife, theministerpredicted thehuntedanimals haveWhile notingpoachers taken atollon Tanzania’s ivory. Photoby Tim Ryan newly learnedskilltodetect Demonstrating acanine’s 9 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 10 Photo bymnowicki/Shutterstock.com | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 Customs and BorderProtection. In2009, theEl Paso curriculum, directed by thenewly formed U.S. combined agencies were madeintoonestandard formed in2003, thecanineprograms ofthe ofHomeland Security When theDepartment classes. andhandler the trainingcenterbeganinstructor 1993, theBorderPatrol had152canineteams and people andover $150,000,000inseizeddrugs. By teams accountedfor numerous ofconcealed arrests thefirstfiveDuring monthsof1987, fourcanine and later openedatrainingcenterinElPaso, Texas. Border Patrol acanineprogram in1986 launched apprehensions andnarcoticsseizures, theU.S. at theincreaseAlarmed inillegal alien explosives. detect narcotics, but alsocurrency, and firearms building andcanineswere prepared notonly to the facility grew to100kennels withanacademic facility. When Congress approved fundingin1991, Virginia, on300acres ofaformercattle research In 1974, theoperation moved toFront Royal, handlersatmilitary Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. detectordogprogram,Customs Service by launched smuggling was justanovel ideathat ledtotheU.S. in1969,Back usingdogstocombat drug begins, hesaid. beforemust finallycheck pretraining passamedical all passorjustonepasses.” The successful canines selection process,” Hoppersaid. “Sometimes they breed specific andwilltake most dogs that passthe malinois, shepherdsandretrievers, but we are not andworking usessport “CBP primarily breeds like breed puppies, undergo which thesamescreening. source isin-house. CBPmates robust dogsto that make thegradeare purchased. The other times upto10animalsat once, but only canines Vendors supply trainingcenterdogs, deliveringat to doasearch.” floor.on aslick “Ifthey can’t, they may notbe able retrieving, tolerating gunfire orbeing able to walk field, James Hopper. saidInstructor Tests include genetic makeup,” what dogsare tolearn fit for the traitsandconfidence—theirgeneral character “We for theirdrive,check first sociability, all ofthempass. at ElPasothe animalsarrive orFront Royal andnot to thetest. immediately Caninecollege starts after Today’s CBPcanineprogram continues toputdogs CBP’s canineprogram, inElPaso. withheadquarters and Front Royal trainingcenterswere merged into benefit CBP’s By PaulKoscak

CANINE

from

rich handlers

history

40—and extraseats are quicklysnapped upby other Paso thetrade. learning Classescanbelarge—up to then spendseven weeks eitherinFront Royal orEl popular. Handlersare selectedby theircomponent, handlers. CBP’s canineprogram iscontinuous and training continues andthey bondwiththeir After pretraining, caninesmove tothefieldwhere land towork at BorderPatrol checkpoints. andopen Other dogsare exposedtounderbrush in vehicles for caninesassignedtopoints ofentry. extensive traininginfindingcontraband hidden asnoiseanddistractions.conditions such There’s torecognize ordersandarelearn exposedtofield Dogs walk through buildings andwarehouses, Pretraining lastsfive weeks and focuses ondetection. Customs Detection DogCenterinSan Antonio, Texas. Photo courtesyofCBP HistoryProgramcollections August, 1970-SchooldaysforCustoms handlersanddogsinbasicobediencetrainingatthe and certification isthebenchmark.” nothing operating toourstandards. Ourprogram “By far, nonecompare,” hedeclared. “There’s facilities. and how upwithothercaninetraining CBPstacks knows awinningprogram what ittakes torun Working withdogsfor almost40years, Spittler Spittler. in thefield, said AssistantCanineDirector Timothy to theircomponentmaintainthecanineteams whothenreturn handlers tobecomeinstructors Management participated. The centersalsotrain andtheU.S.of Corrections Bureau ofLand state police. Recently, thePennsylvania Department law enforcers andagencies—sheriffs orlocaland

11 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 12 Submit your photosto | FRONTLINEextremely challenging. where theterrainmakestypicalLine Operations operations incloseproximitytothe border | VOLUnit wasdesignedtoconductreconnaissance performs livefire,smallunittactics. TheRecce 9 as Yuma Station’s newlycreatedRecceUnit | ISSUEBorder Patrol Agent Jeffrey Haydenplayspoint 2Wellton, Arizona U.S. BorderPatrol Border Patrolagent Sears Taylor Photo by: [email protected] 13 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 14 14 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 to a similar high-speed with well-armed runners to asimilarhigh-speed withwell-armed runners setting sailtoashipoverloaded with illegalaliens unknown. That blip couldbeanything from afamily theirequipmentandprepared forchecked the As theinterceptorspedto itstarget, thecrew with ahollow thud, shakingtheboat. forairborne aninstantthenslammedontothewater more than50knots, thevessel at timesbecame withahiss.the deck Bouncingfrom thewaves at boomed like andsprayed akettle drum water over roared. As theaccelerating hullhittheswells, it The boat’s four 225horse-power engines Mercury throttles fullforward. hollered for thecrew to holdonandpushedthe Operations’and Marine 39-foot MidnightExpress boat’s radar. Wasting notime, thecommanderof Air blip withcoordinates tothesuspectflashedon inthedarkfor areportedsmuggler.searched Then a rough asthecrew aboard asleekinterceptor byChurned astiffevening breeze, theseagrew A LOOKINSIDETHENATIONAL MARINE TRAININGCENTER By PaulKoscak,photosbyGlennFawcett back then,”back herecalled. Wade advanced toamarine Virgin Islands. “There were only ahandfulofus enforcement officerinSt.marine Thomas, U.S. asaU.S.starting customsinspectorandlater a Wade’s law enforcement to1995, career goesback Center’s director since2012. “Marty” Wade, theNational Marine Training “Failure toheave-to [stop]isafelony,” saidMartin stood ready toboard. stunning theunsuspectingsubjects. The pursuers illuminated sea, thecraftandsurrounding interceptor’s powerful floodlightsand blue strobes the commandergave thesignal. Instantly, the The gap rapidly narrowed. Now, justfeet away, dark for theintercept. over thedin, guidingthecommanderthrough the spotted theshrouded vessel andshoutedheadings Using night-visiongoggles, thenavigator finally todeliverdetermined theircontraband. Ecuador, French West IndiesandColombia. included law enforcers from Paraguay, Malaysia, skillssharp.maritime have participants International law enforcement organizations tokeep turn their with otherfederal, state, localandeven foreign and where U.S. CustomsandBorderProtection along Training CenterinSt. Augustine, Florida, canexpect thoseattending experiences AMO’s National Marine suspect craft. The episodeisoneofmany realistic as described, interdictionagents marine crewed the andallitsdramahappenedWhile thesimulated chase Washington, D.C., at thecenter. before arriving eventually operations servedasdirectorin ofmarine director inMiamiand andmarine supervisor Training small classes. Center’s those benefitingfromtheNational Marine from theSanDiegoMarineUnit was among Supervisory Air andMarine Agent MarkWhite teach 50classesperyear.teach In2016, they chalked Just six AMO andsix U.S. BorderPatrol instructors “Don’t befooled by oursmallsize,” Wade stressed. that accommodatesadjoining dock 30vessels. building with twonondescript classrooms and That jobisaccomplishedinaremarkably to protect thenation’s coasts, lakes andrivers. certifications andspecializedtacticsused recurrent courses covering basicandadvanced skills, maritime Patrol agents visitthecenterevery year, taking interdiction andU.S.More than500marine Border Immense task 15 15 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 16 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 a highly skilled andmobileforce that can quickly is centraltothecenter’s mission, delivers which Improving unitsthrough standardtraining marine coast. South Florida they patrol the RioGrande, theGreat Lakes or the is trainedtothesamehighstandardregardless if Academics andapplication isbalancedandeveryone want tohearis ‘your trainingisnotrelevant.’” the doorandbeexcitedtotrain. The lastthingI said. agents“I want ourmarine tocomethrough moving ahead, we’re moving backwards,” Wade evolvingup-to-date totackle threats. “If we’re not At thesametime, thecenter strives tokeep courses maneuvers notpossible inthefield. multiple law andpractice enforcement challenges classes inmostdemandwhere confront participants boat interdictionanduse-of-force are amongthe boarding officer, tacticsinstructor, marine small Vessel commander, instructor, marine tactical force trainat thecenter. Navy’s sea, airandlandorSEALspecialoperations special warfare combat craftoperators andthe members oftheU.S. Navy specialwarfare units, issovaluableInstruction andcomprehensive that receive more one-on-onetraining. workload, but italsomeanssmallclassessoagents Naturally, thehighdemandmeansaheavy up anamazing25,700studenttraininghours. points outthetacticstoexpectwhenclasstakeswater Supervisory MarineInterdiction Agent andInstructorKenKilroy . challenging jobsinallCBP.”challenging someone at night, nolights, it’s oneofthemost recertification course. “When you’re only feet from Unit,Miami Marine takingthevessel commander interdictionagent marine from the supervisory react,” offered Antonio “Tony G” Gammillaro, a “This jobisfor peoplewhocanthinkquickly and there,” hepointedout. instructor. “Most suspect vessels won’t know you’re Blanco, interdictionagent marine and asupervisory listen for headingsallat once, said Andres “Andy” position by courseandspeed, monitortheradarand to mentally picture theboat’s path, calculate require teamwork vessel andchallenge commanders Procedures for successfulintercepts, for instance, evening intercept. the MidnightExpress crew their confronted during Settings replicate real-world possibilities, justas the procedures they’ll later practiceonthewater. Agents typically spendahalfday inclassstudying normally work theyear,” withduring headded. country. “You needtorely onthoseyou don’t regularly augmentslocations ofthe inotherparts recertification course. Ecclessaidhis region takingthevessel Branch commander and Marine interdictionagentmarine from theGreat Lakes Air limited resources, saidJeff Eccles, a supervisory Standardization allows regions todomore with deploy toany ofCBP’s locations. marine takes carefulaim. Interdiction Agent ChrisGallaspyfromtheCorpusChristiMarineUnit, Texas, Hitting movingtargetsattherightspotcanbetrickyasSupervisoryMarine National Marine Training curriculum. Center’s Practicing tacticstosafelyboardavesselisanimportantpartofthe an overloaded boat cancapsize for thesamereason. willfall withoutenough forwardbicycle rider speed, side ofacaptured but overloaded vessel. Justasa To ensure safety, two interceptorswillparalleleach interceptor’s helm. bad guysandanothervessel commandertakes the Then itbeginsagain. Another crew becomesthe charge, Blancosaid. coordinate andthere’s boarding officerin aprimary Throughout theexercise, agents communicate and the tacticsagents willusewhenboardingavessel. studying itsoccupants. That assessment determines from onesideofthefleeingcraftto theother, Another boat intercepts. The commandermaneuvers away. game, break- thepursuersanticipate andthwart each of theirvessel nearly skimsthewater. Butlike achess turns, sometimesbankingsoforcefully thetopside They zigzag. They dodge. They make sharp, abrupt use toescape. deliver.The instructors playing thesuspectswhoapply evaders allthetricks acraftcrewedAgents intrainingchase by instructors oftheprogram.part check, inspectionorfor any reason isanimportant Tactics toapprehend craftwhetherfor adocument ascanbe As real said. Beach. “Smugglers have noregard for life,” Wade next morning, bodieswere found along West Palm to swim therest oftheway. Many couldn’t. The theshore,from reaching they ordered theHaitians smugglers realized the breaking surfprevented them for thebeach, now just50yards away. When the and waves toppedseven feet astheirvessel raced Bahamas toFlorida. That night, winds were brisk Wade Haitiansfrom recalled aboatthe trafficking commanders.” “That’s why we invest soheavily inourvessel interdiction agent andthecenter’s deputydirector. warrants,” marine saidScottLeach, supervisory toescape,trying weapons traffickers, thosewith “You never know who’s outthere—murderers just alineonthehorizon. water definestheopenocean, where theshore is fire isdoneseveral miles at sea, in “blue water.” Blue field, thecenteroffers plentyofopportunity. Live Since disabling fire trainingisn’t inthe authorized the vessel. unsuccessful, they willfire shotstoward warning andverbalauthority commands. Ifthosetacticsare asprojecting will firstuseothermethodssuch Before resorting todisabling fire asit’s called, agents that shootprojectiles designedtodisable engines. Runners canultimately bestoppedusingshotguns inspect forhiddendangersastheysecurethevessel. Agents skillfullyoperatewithinavessel’s confinedspaceand 17 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 18 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 feet withfour 350horse-power engines. Itweighs newest interceptor—and thecenter’s largest—is 41 speedsofnearlycan reach 70milesperhour. The and extendedhullsranging from 39to41 feet that are longand sleekmulti-engine boats withpointed onsixinterceptorvessels.Center staffinstruct Four shooter willshow theirskills. the exercise repeats—another commanderand rapid, ear-ringing fusilladeat the dummies. Then signal, theshootergoesintoaction anddirects a The target approaches. At thevessel commander’s easy. over theenginesnoise. Today, disabling fire won’t be shotguns, ammunition andearprotection, yelling the airandthere’s wind. abrisk Agents handout Their vessel bobsfrom side-to-side, spray fills pursuit vessel andtheconditionsare challenging. being towed by anothervessel. They role play the targetbullet-riddled craftat theendofalongline engines andhumantorsodummiesaffixed toa Shooters practicedisabling fire onplasticoutboard Disabling fire tow. craft together. Inthiscase, theRSDV performsaside agents unravel coiledlinesandcarefully tiethetwo for thetow. When thetwo vessels finally touch, boat, theagents telltheoccupantshow toprepare vessel, orRSDV, gently glides alongsidethestranded delicate task. shallowAs their21-foot riverine draft Patrol agents prepare totow adisabled boat. It’s a In thebay justoffthecenter’s dock, U.S. Border lakes, where theBorderPatrol operates 207vessels. Training alsocovers world—rivers theriverine and and buoyancy. wrap-around foam collar, providing addedstability All-around Flotation Equipped, denotingthevessel’s out at 57milesperhour. SAFEstandsfor Secure pounds hasfour 300horse-power enginesandtops travel 51milesperhour. The otherweighs 18,000 pounds hasthree 300horse-power enginesandcan foot and38-foot vessels. The smallercraftat 13,300 AMO’s othertwo interceptorsare SAFE boats: 33- the otherthree—and cantravel 74milesperhour. 22,000 pounds—nearly 6,000poundsmore than Instructor Andres “Andy”Blancoevaluates. Interdiction Agent EliPalmafromtheSan Rapid shotgunblastsringoutasMarine Supervisory Air andMarine Agent and Diego MarineUnitpracticesdisabling fire atasimulatedrun-awayvessel. RSDVs cantravel nearly 35milesperhour. or operate in if you“just four keep inches moving.” “You ofwater,” canstopin11inches Casasusnoted, water-jet engine, anRSDV canhydroplane, hesaid. By funnelingwater through its260horse-power into Mexico. Casasus patrols Lake Amistad, alake that extends Sector, takingtheinitialvessel commandercourse. Patrol Agent CasasusfromAlberto theDelRio RSDVs are perfect for shallow water, saidBorder towing for longdistancesinrough water. side tows for distancesincalmwater short andstern Agents practicetwo typesoftowing, said— Arietta other.next toeach You canlosefingers.” of themostdangerous timeswhentwo boats are understand what you want,” hetellsthem. “It’s one evaluatesArietta themaneuver. “Make sure they BorderPatrolSupervisory Mike Agent andInstructor tremendous amount of trust andresponsibility tremendous amountoftrust regardless ofrank, Wade confirmed. “There’s a agency that toitsoperators delegates thisauthority ourshores.from reaching CBP is theonly federal dangerous pursuitsquickly andprevent thesevessels capability todisable non-compliantvessels, stop concurrence. givesThis authority AMO the disabling to authorize fire withoutsupervisory that allowexperience AMO vessel commanders the edge, thereal advantage isthetrainingand While speed, tacticsandfirepower give AMO agents Calling theshots agent andinstructor. said L. Keith Weeks, borderpatrol asupervisory certifications inanyAgents canearn ofthese vessels, andspecialoperationscenter for training. riverine that resemble smallrecreational craft, are usedat the boats, airboats and16-foot, low-draft connectors SAFE andRSDV craft, 12-foot inflatable powered includes operatinglow-draftand inflatablecraftusedfor riverine borderenvironment—rivers andlakes. Training U.S. BorderPatrolagentssafeguard thenation’s patrolling shallowwaterorspecial operations. 19 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 20 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 travel tofillup at tooffsite marinas retail prices. bulk cutscosts andtimesincevessels nolonger The centerhasitsown fuelingstation. Buying in efficiency andqualitytraining gohand-in-hand. most from its$1.08milliondollarbudget, where Thanks toabusiness mindset, thecentergets escape. agents morefor control violators andlittlechance to where topursueavessel. Offshore pursuitsgive within policy. For example, decidingwhenand good judgementsincethey’re accountable toact However, thecenterprepares commanderstouse anddisablingwarning fire. AMO hasengaged in126events involving marine force decisions,” hesaid. “That’s huge.” Since2003, given toouragents use-of- whenmakingcritical mission.” worktechnicians day the andnighttosupport maintenance issues,” Wade said. “Our dedicated “We never hadtokeep aclassover becauseof craft compared toregular operations. maneuvering placesgreater stress andwear onthe demand more attention becausetheconstant shape at well below thegoingrate. Training vessels maintenance facility keeps vessels which intop More savings are captured through thecenter’s pumps more than$600,000intothelocaleconomy. than $60,000peryear, Wade said, whilethecenter government rate. Those measures alonesave more area hotelstoprovide rooms at $33below the are shared andthecenternegotiated withthree Louisiana must drive tothecenter. Rentalcars To eliminate airfare, and attendees from Florida recurrent vesselcommandercourse. from ErieMarineUnit,Pennsylvania, navigates avesselduringhisyearly Marine Interdiction Agent JonRose executive assistantcommissioner. andthe department public whomweAmerican serve andprotect,” saidRandolphD. Alles, AMO’s former “We are excitedtoshare thisnew vessel withourstakeholders, includingthoseonCapitol Hill, withinour San Diego. They willdefend thenation’s coastalwaterways combating smugglers and terrorists. be deployed unitsnationwide, tomarine Rico, includingPuerto theU.S. Virgin Islands, and southeastFlorida The vessels are missionrequirements designedtomeetemerging andwill ofHomelandSecurity Department reliability. hull design, safety equipmentandelectronics providing agents withahighlevel ofprotection, mobility vessels. Through acontractwithSAFEBoats International, thenew interceptorswillfeature anadvanced To enhanceoperations, AMO isplanningtoaddat least52nextgeneration interceptorstoitsarsenalof By PaulKoscak INTERCEPTOR NEXT GENERATION AMO LAUNCHES 58 knots(66mph) Maximum speed: engines outboard Mercury Four (4)350HP radar Marine surface Length: 41feet infrared sensors infrared Electro-optical/ Endurance: 10hours Range: 350nauticalmiles Photo byJames Tourtellotte SAFE BoatsInternational 20,000 lbs weight: Maximum gross Image courtesyof

21 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 22

| FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 MAINTAINING THE FLEET Bold, can-do attitude Bold, can-do propulsion systemsupgraded andenginesare are sealed,cracks electronic systemsreplaced, reverberate throughout thebuilding asfiberglass The whines, andrattles ofpower grinds tools side, undergoing each somephaseofrefurbishment. dozen interceptorsontrailersare squeezedsideby hangar—where a shop—the sizeofanairplane Walk intothecavernous andelectronics rigging at just17whenheentered the mechanic Air Force. center’s director, whobeganhiscareer asanaircraft we can’t dohere,” proclaimed Doug Wagner, the four CBPmanagers. “There’s really that notmuch and by Systemstechnicians 68GlobalMaritek than 178,000square feet ofworkspace staffed and administrative offices. Altogether, there’s more electronics shop, warehouse department andparts fiberglass andvinyl shop, shop, machine paintshop, mile centralroadway—a shop, rigging engineshop, specialty linebothsidesofthefacility’s quarter- that resembles park. anindustrial Buildingsfor every Center,huge National Marine amaintenancefacility World-class takes support placenearby at AMO’s program.” world-class when you support have aworld-class Director Martin “Marty” Wade notes. “You need Center’s success, National Marine Training Center Maintenance iskey totheNational Marine Training photos byGlennFawcett gets thingsdone By PaulKoscak, all-weather interceptor. on a38-footSAFEboat Installing anewengine zip ties. “This was ashock,” hesaid, alsopointing tangleofwires,chaotic withplastic somebunched panelrefitted an electrical by amarina. Itshowed a As anexample, Wagner produced aphotograph of and at justathirdofthecost.” would take three weeks, here we can doitinaweek Lee supervisor Author. shop “Where alocalmarine the boat itsname. “Our qualityissuperior,” offered refitted withnew collars, thecomponent that gives In thefiberglass shop, Border Patrol SAFEboats are replace orcraftentirely parts new components. shops have. The shopcanmanufacture difficult-to- milling machines—devices few maintenance marine vintage fabricating equipment—lathes, presses, drill communication gear. shopalsoboasts The machine navigationand fixingallmannerofmaritime and quietly sitby longworkbenches testing, calibrating By contrast, intheelectronics shop technicians ready todeliver. any location. marine Four semi-trailersare onhand maintenance facility’s swap depotfor aquick with Completed craftare many timesstored inthe facility, Wagnersaid. Even vessels from the West at the Coastare serviced Guard retirements destinedtojointheCBPfleet. replaced oroverhauled. A few vessels are Coast director. interdictionagentmarine andmaintenancedeputy not expensive,” addedJames Warfield, supervisory tasks andprojects future maintenance, “and it’s purchases,tracks records repairs, required schedules The nation-wide systemstreamlines procedures, maintenance inventory systemorCAMITS. tracking Another bargain isthecustomsautomated prices. workwarranty andupto50percentoffretail part access tothecountry’s largest inventory, parts on-site the taxpayer considerable money. Globaloffers CBP and theU.S. Corps, Marine saving thoseagencies and Atmospheric Administration, theU.S. CoastGuard Enforcement Training Centers, National Oceanic craft alongwithvessels from theFederal Law Islands. The company keeps upmore than300 RicoandSt.including Puerto Thomas, U.S. Virgin but alsoat 28othersitesthroughout thecountry, not only performmaintenanceat St. Augustine Under Wagner’s leadership, Global’s 165technicians panel. properly secured wire takinguplessthanhalfthe refitted the refit—orderly,electricians of cleartracks photo was almostunrecognizable afterthefacility’s out thewrong gaugeofwire inthemix. The second will finda way tomake ithappen.” yes,” is how Wagner thetechnicians. describes “They some shelf. It’s anattitude. “We ask, andthey say Still, thefacility’s mostpowerful toolisn’t found on Can do are applyingpaint. these technicians Saving thesheen, United States.” andthemissiontoprotect the Homeland Security added. “They’re notjustcontractors. They’re of part coming here justtomaintainassets,” Warfield “Everybody brought onboardistoldthey’re not asexceptionalskills.expected asimportant from the firstinterviewlearn there’s ahighercalling Applicants seekingjobsat themaintenance facility high work ethic. Many are formermilitary.” “eager andwork tolearn for andhave thecountry a accomplishments, embraceinnovations andare he explained. Technicians intheir take pride sense ofpurpose. “They embraceour mission,” Wagner credits thefacility’s successtothestaff’s for innovation andcostsavings. and in2013, theSmallBusiness Achievement Award 2012, thecommissioner’s MissionIntegration Award facility received LeaderSafety theIndustry Award; in That mindsetisnoticed. entrepreneurial In2011, the about five years toa vessel’s life. transom saved thegovernment $3millionandadds things,” Wagner said, whoestimates thebeefed-up vibration andstrengthens thestern. “We invent that deaden compositematerials made withcertain commitment that paidoffinarefabricated transom breakthrough and tooknumerous trial-and-error where theengineisbolted. Like any invention, the and breaks thetransom, ofavessel’s part stern Over time, anengine’s vibration eventually weakens tothejunkyard isanexampleoftheiringenuity.trip creation thatA crucial keeps vessels from anearly 23 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 24 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 25 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 26 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 had a hiring freeze.had ahiring passed thefirstphaseof testing, andthentheFBI help studentswiththeirjob search. Lubinapplied, enforcement agencies Lubin’s collegehadlistedto decided toapply at theFBI. Itwas oneofthelaw State Universityfrom Florida in Tallahassee, Navy degree andgraduated with acriminology Lubin, whoultimately servedeightyears inthe what itwas.” about theBorderPatrol,” saidLubin. “I hadnoidea becoming aBorderPatrol agent. “I hadnever heard for school. Butat notimedidsheever consider about joiningthemilitary, how itcouldhelppay officer. Bythetimeshe was 13, shethought At theage of9, Shelly Lubinwanted tobeapolice Image byOzzy Trevino do thisjob.” patrolling. Icouldn’t believe they were paying meto I love gettinginmy goingouttomy truck, area and loved it,” shesaid. “I’ve always liked beingoutdoors. hired. Soonafter, sherealized shewanted to stay. “I Border Patrol,” shesaid. Lubinapplied andwas to finishtheFBI’s process, hiring I’ll apply for the appealing.learned “I decidedwhileI’mwaiting andfoundLubin didsomeresearch what she Border Patrol,” shesaid. Patrol. Ididn’t ever about remember hearing the “There was ahugeadvertisement for theBorder But then, Lubinsaw somethinginthenewspaper. Lubin, whothoughtabout rejoining theNavy. wanted todosomethingfor my country,” said A few monthslater, 9/11shookthenation. “I SEARCHING FORTHE CBP ramps upitshiringefforts BEST By Marcy Mason By Marcy Recruitment Command,Recruitment a division ofCBP’s Office Tucker, commander ofCBP’s National Frontline but we’re makingheadway,” saidMichael “It’s withmany ahugeundertaking challenges, Filling theranks Border Patrol agents. deficit ofmore than1,300 CBPofficersand1,700 agents.and Marine Bothare inadditiontofillinga Secretary Kelly alsoissuedadirective toadd500 Air Patrol agents. ofHomelandSecurity Department of anadditional5,000Border calling for thehiring January, President Trump issuedanexecutive order needsfor allitsuniformed personnel.hiring In the nextfew years, CBPwillneedtomeetcritical new agents andofficerstofillitsranks. Within agencies, CBPismoving at fullthrottle torecruit hasslowedAt atimewhenfederal hiring at many and officers at CBPwhoare protecting America. said Lubin, whoisoneof thethousandsofagents work hardenough, you canadvance inyour career,” to show thefederal agents outinthefieldthat if you Patrol in headquarters Washington, D.C. “I wanted Today, at theU.S. sheisanassistantchief Border was stationed inSanDiego, patrolling theborder. career at U.S. CustomsandBorderProtection, Lubin That was 14years ago. For thefirst10 years ofher Wilderness inSanDiegoCounty. CBP photo undocumented aliensintheOtayMountain Shelly Lubintracksfootprintsof As ayoungBorderPatrolagentin2005,

average around fiveright now, percent for us which on many factors,” hesaid. numbers“The attrition account. “People retire andtake otherjobsbased said healsoneedstotake theagency’s into attrition efforts.and hiring Aside from thesenumbers, Tucker responsible for theagency’s strategy recruitment of HumanResourcesManagement, is which Border Patrolbecauseshecould workoutdoors.Shown here, in2005,asayoungagent, LubinpatrolstheOtay Shelly Lubindiscoveredsheloved workingfortheU.S. Mountain Wilderness inSanDiegoCounty. CBP photo 27 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 28 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 we’re working toward with similararrangements personnel,are co-located hiring withmilitary and have onebase, Fort BlissinElPaso, Texas, where we “We physically travel installations. tomilitary We bases.CBP alsohastaken onmilitary stepstorecruit agents andaskquestions,” said Tucker. that prospective candidates canmeetofficersand of attracting events more peopletorecruiting so events nationwide. “We’re todoabetterjob trying programs. Lastyear, CBPconducted4,407recruiting workCBP recruiters withtransitioningveterans’ fairs, collegecampuses, baseswhere andmilitary Online advertising inpersonat job andrecruiting that CBPisusingtwo methods. basicrecruitment Tucker, whoisaBorderPatrol agent himself, said our goals.” and officersannually for the nextfive yearsto attain is quitehigh. We needtohire almost3,000agents Sean Driscoll,andCharitySperringer. PhotobyOzzy Trevino Counterclockwise fromleft:RichardFortunato,LillianWang, ShirleyChenBarry, KevinWright, RitaLott,Casey Adams, Michael Tucker, Commander Michael Tucker briefstheNationalFrontlineRecruitmentCommandteamataweeklymeetinginWashington, D.C. and retaining veterans. ranked CBP astheNo. 2bestemployer for hiring employment websites, Monsterand Military.com, CBP’s efforts have notgoneunnoticed. In 2016, number.” workforce are veterans andwe’re proud ofthat the bestcandidates. Closeto30percentofour forces tospeakthat language sowe canattract vernacular,” said Tucker. “We wanted totrainour veterans.military personnel have“Military aspecial Command hasaspecialunitthat focuses onhiring Furthermore, theNational Frontline Recruitment and talktothemabout thebenefitsofCBP.” who cananswer questions, help themapply online, there. Applicants canseeaCBPrepresentative onsite process becausewe’reexpedites thehiring right five bases,” othermilitary explained Tucker. “This untapped poolofqualityapplicants. its efforts ontheMidwest, where there isan U.S.,” said Tucker, addingthat CBPisnow focusing ofthe borderortheheartland from theNorthern border. “We have notseenagreat dealofapplicants from areas alongtheU.S. coastlineandSouthwest ofapplicantsthe majority andsuccessfulhires come From ageographical perspective, Tucker saidthat career path totake,”which hesaid. studentswhohavewant toreach notyet decided more relationships withcommunity colleges. “We Tucker also explained that his team plans to establish tograduation.” studentsjustprior need toreach opposed tosecondsemester. We’ve realized that we Tucker. “Our events were heldfirstsemesteras we hadhoped. We ofitistiming,” thinkpart said it hasn’t attracted asmany successfulcandidates as campuses. “We have focused alotoncollegesand CBP alsodoesafair oncollege amountofrecruiting program, which educates youthabouttrendinglaw enforcementissues.Photoby NatalieUchmanowicz Supervisory CBP OfficerJosé Venegas, center, inspiresteenagersintheinnercityofChicagowho are membersoftheCBP Explorer Inspiring successstory communication neededtobeastrength. Otherwise, federal law enforcement, especially intocustoms, get ahead. “I understoodthat ifIwanted togointo howneeded tolearn tocommunicate inEnglishto to theExplorer Program didherealize that he were taughtinSpanish. Notuntilhewas exposed werewhere theschools bilingualandhisclasses immigrant neighborhoodonChicago’s SouthSide, in Guadalajara, Mexico, Venegas grew upinan As afirstgeneration who was born American program for localarea youth. the Explorer Program, alaw enforcement sponsored whenhewasopportunities 17years oldandjoined Service, oneofCBP’s legacyagencies, anditscareer Venegas firstlearned about the U.S. Customs to federal, state, andlocallaw enforcement partners. officer inChicago whoserves asthe agency’s liaison Case inpointisJosé Venegas, CBP asupervisory 29 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 30 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 and BorderPatrol agent candidates thenundergo a investigation.initiate abackground CBP officer At thispoint, applicants filloutdocumentsto recently medicalorfitnesstest. completed amilitary phases, CBPoffers reciprocity toveterans whohave exam andabasicphysical fitnesstest. For these Qualified applicants are thenasked totake amedical test drive onaboat.” “But they are requiredtestflightora to doanaerial they’ve already received certification,” said Tucker. pilotsandboat captainsAir andMarine because entrance exam. “There isn’t anentrance examfor for CBPofficersandBorder Patrol agents take an rigorous. After submittinganapplication, candidates process forThe hiring CBPofficersand agents is hiringprocess Rigorous their goals. city kidsasaCBPadvisor, themtoachieve inspiring Explorer Program, only now he’s inner mentoring ranks at CBPwhilecontinuing ofthe tobepart Today, 23years later, Venegas through the hasrisen community, explainingwhat we do,” said Venegas. field. Ijust found itsointriguing working withthe kids, but Iwanted todoitinthelaw enforcement “I thoughtIwould enjoy people, teaching talkingto school. Instead, hejoinedtheU.S. CustomsService. but Venegas at agrammar decidednottoteach high honors. Hisdegree education, isinelementary classes andgraduated from DePaul University with Venegas straight earned A’s inallofhisEnglish used every resource available,” hesaid. Intheend, University inChicago. and “I tookalotoftutoring After acoupleofyears, hetransferred toDePaul initially enrolled at acommunity collegeinthecity. car wash orIdidlandscaping,” said Venegas, who to sendmecollege, soIworked summersat a go toschool. “My parents didn’t have themoney inEnglish,”write hesaid. Then Venegas decidedto of thesebooksandtaughtmyself how toread and At first, Venegas studied onhis own. “Iboughtall overcoming my language barrier. Ihadto,” hesaid. I was goingtobeinbigtrouble. SoIendedup three timesayear toprocess applicants’ entrance weekend. “We hubs at bases military setuphiring take placeatthecourseofa onelocation during hubs,” where many process stepsofthehiring CBP speduptheprocess by establishing “hiring 160 days. today hasshown thecapacity tohire candidates in potential candidates onboard. The process inplace In 2015, ittookanaverage of469days tobring process.of timeittakes tocomplete itshiring CBPfacesOne ofthemajorchallenges isthelength enter ondutyandbegintheircareers withCBP.” offer isextended. Ifthey accept, thenew hires will testbeforerequired topassarandomdrug final investigation,background applicants may be investigation,” said Tucker. “After they passthe polygraph, candidates will undergo abackground are asked totake apolygraph. “If they passthe If candidates successfully passtheinterview, they procedures at CBP’s aviation academies. andmarine applicantsMarine gothrough different interview panel ofofficersand ranks.agents of various Airand interview conductedbyscenario-based acertified Photo byNicolas DeLosSantos border tonewBorderPatrolagents inLaredo, Texas. Patrol, givesguidanceonpatrolling theU.S.-Mexico Casey Adams, right,assistantchief,U.S.Border standards,” said Tucker.standards,” candidates toapply whilemaintainingourhigh fitness tests. “We aretomake trying iteasier for gives reciprocity veterans tocertain for physical Similarly, theBorderJobs for Veterans Act of2015 they are separatingofservice. from theirbranch Information, or TS/SCI, clearancewhen security an active Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented polygraph testsfor veterans whoalready have Defense Authorization Act was passed, waiving process.hiring InDecember2016, theNational Recent legislation alsohashelpedCBPexpediteits somewhere else.” their needs, thenthey’re goingtofindemployment with CBP. Ifwe aren’t enoughandreactive quick to to us. The talentpoolisn’t justapplying for ajob hire applicants substantially, isagreat benefit which we cancutdown thetimeittakes toprocess and hub,”through ahiring hesaid. “If we candothat, “Our goalistohire 100percentofourapplicants provisional clearance,” said Tucker. polygraph tests, provide adjudication, andgrant exams, interviews, conductstructured perform inspection. Instead, shewas for senttosecondary further Mexican coastline. cruise. The shiphadstoppedat alongthe theports was tothe U.S. whenshereturned aftertaking a CBP OfficerRitaLott’s firstencounterwith customs wanted todo. Itwas my calling.” else, notnecessarily themselves. That’s what I mission—to make theworld betterfor everyone teams. “They gothrough life every day withone Command of theNational Frontline Recruitment veteran oftheU.S. BorderPatrol wholeadsone just apprehend them,” saidCasey Adams, a22-year to people. They theirlives risk tosave people, not because Isaw that agents care about what happens “I was inspired tobecomeaBorderPatrol agent day,” hesaid. mission betterthananyone else. They doitevery uniformed agents andofficers. “They know the According to Tucker, CBP’s are the bestrecruiters Best recruiters 31 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 32 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 are somany things to do,” saidLott, whonow has thatthe jobopportunities were available. There working“Once Istarted at CBP, Ilooked at allof her thinkingandeventually shedidandwas hired. her ifshehadever applied for thejobat CBP. That got decided towait. Time passedandLott’s brother asked officer ofCommerce for theDepartment attime, degree inmicrobiology andwas aconsumersafety and toldhissistertoapply. ButLott, whohasa that there was ajobpostingonlinefor CBPofficers piqued my interest,” shesaid. Lott’s brother noticed didn’t know anything about traveling overseas, soit about what happened anddidalittleresearch. “I home,After Lottreturned shespoke toherbrother her jobandshetoldmehow sheliked much it.” nice,” Lottsaid. askingherquestionsabout“I started herbagswas searching was kind. “She was really That’s whenLottdiscovered theCBPofficerwho check, but Iwas terrified,” shesaid. Am Igoingtojail?guessitwas justarandom was wondering what Ididwrong. Was Iintrouble? check CBP officers wanted to my bags,” saidLott. “I I was pulledoutoflineandsenttosecondary. The “It was my firsttrip overseas andwhenIcameback, had set his sights on going to flight school and had sethissightsongoingtoflightschool didn’t want tomake acareer outofitthough. He offered money for collegeundertheG.I. Bill. Gayle he enlistinthe Army. They knew that themilitary Some ofGayle’s suggested college-boundfriends cheap. SoIwas kindofinapickle.” state that offered adegree inaviation anditwasn’t the time, there was onlyintheentire oneschool college,” saidGayle, whogrew upin Wisconsin. “At very humble means. Ididn’t have any money for in highschool. “I wanted tofly, but Icamefrom wanted tobeapilotsincehewas asophomore was thecaseforSuch Todd Gayle, whoknew he CBP isalsoaplacewhere peoplefulfilltheirdreams. takingflight Dreams are involved in.” of ourjobs, how many different thingswe actually average persondoesn’t really understandthedepth border includingthemailgoesthrough CBP. The clothing tofood tocars. Everything that crosses the that comeinfrom allthegoodsandservices check ask themquestions, but they don’t realize that we travel overseas totheU.S., andreturn they know we different dutiesthat CBPofficershave. Whenpeople program manager. “Most peopledon’t realize allthe been withCBPfor 14years andisarecruitment becoming apilot. The Army toldhim recruiter that ifhewanted hisenlistment, toshorten he could take acombat position. SoGayle did. “I drove tanksinthe Army the during Iraq War,” hesaid. When Gayle was stateside, he marijuana hiddenintheNewMexico Agent Todd Gaylelocatessmuggled was stationed inElPaso, Texas. There, hewas CBP Supervisory Air Interdiction introduced toaBorder desert. Photoby RubenReyes Patrol agent whooffered board.” requirements, heorshecanpotentially comeon hires.’ As longasapilotcan meet thehourly flight Operations. “Today, we dowhat we call ‘street air interdictionagent inCBP’s Air andMarine industry,” saidGayle, whoisnow asupervisory is ashortage ofpilotsnow throughout theaviation Things have for applicants. current changed “There them around thehousewholeday,” hesaid. I firstgot my flightsuitandgloves, Iliterally wore to fly, I morning.was like akidonChristmas When received my firstpilot job, where I was gettingpaid dissuaded from continuing that pursuit, but onceI going tobeapilot. Itwould have beeneasytobe family membersthat kept questioningifIwas ever said Gayle. “There were alotofpeopleincluding ground before Iwas able upapilotslot,” to pick Patrol. “I spent6-1/2years asanagent onthe graduated and, in1996, was hired by theBorder went to back Wisconsin togoflightschool. He After hefinishedhistourwiththe Army, Gayle said Gayle. specifically set my goaltogetintotheprogram,” a pilottrainingprogram. “When Iheardthat, I that theBorderPatrol hadanaviation unitwith the BorderPatrol did. That’s whenGayle discovered alongsothat Gayleto lethimride couldseewhat CBP’s ElPaso Air BranchinElPaso, Texas. PhotobyRubenReyes preflight briefingwith AviationEnforcement AgentFabianCardielat Supervisory Air Interdiction Agent Todd Gayle,left,conductsa I’m stationed.” I canhave my ofaircraft, pick dependingonwhere planes, jets, littlehelicopters, bighelicopters—and airframes, but Igettoflythemall—little planes, big at thecommercial airlines, maybe they’ll fly two willflyoneairframeor of peopleinthemilitary dreams offlying multiple aircraft,” hesaid. “Alot too. “Through CBP, I’ve beenable torealize my As apilot, Gayle hasachieved hishighestambitions the job. Every day isdifferent.” diverse missionset, isoneoftheappeals which of or whentheOlympics are intheU.S. Soit’s avery provide for events security astheSuperBowl such to docountersurveillance,” saidGayle. “We also comes totown, we’re goingtobeflying overhead agencies that request support. “If thepresident work withfederal, state, andlocallaw enforcement Furthermore, CBP’s Operations Air andMarine smuggling anything elsethat’s illegal,” saidGayle. smugglers, smugglers, drug andpeoplewhoare and aviation aspectsoflookingfor human Operations provides“Air andMarine themaritime legitimate tradeandtravel across theU.S. borders. counterterrorism, alongwithfacilitating safe, Since 9/11, CBP’s missionis primary pilot andflyingmultipleaircraft.PhotobyRubenReyes At CBP, Todd Gaylewasabletofulfillhisdreamofbecominga 33 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 34 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 Division. “We companies are goodcorporate trust Office of Trade’s director oftheCivilEnforcement “We can’t look at everything,” Malmo, saidJerry the everycountry day. of themassive volume intothe ofgoodsimported because tooperateexpects importers withintegrity Trust iscentralintheway CBPregulates tradeand CBP played amajorrole intheoutcome. The cover-up andwhy ofthecrime becamethecrux for othergovernment agencies. enforces health, violations safety andbordersecurity CBP notonly enforces customslaws andregulations, it Volkswagen customs fraud. pleadedguiltytocriminal Protection ofJusticeafter Agency andtheDepartment settlement withtheagency, theEnvironmental Levied by CBP, therecord penaltywas ofa part 590,000 vehicles over almostadecade. continuing theploy that allowed ofat theimport least executives await chargesfor oncriminal ruling acourt news in2016. Meanwhile, sixtop Volkswagen test. andthecover-upThe scheme madeinternational it detectedthevehicle was undergoing anemission its vehicles that modifiedtheengine’s exhaustwhen Volkswagen addedasoftware package tothousandsof emissions standards. fraudulently vehiclestothwartU.S. importing rigged costtheautomaker $4.3billion infines which for thelargestexpected—earning customspenaltyever, It’s thecompany ofhistory thesort likely never to U.S. Customsand BorderProtection. Volkswagen recently thanksinlarge madehistory part By PaulKoscak comes atasteepprice Automaker learnsimportfraud HEAVY HIT It was animmense effort. Ledby CBP’s Automotive thescopeofviolation. determine an investigation andlaunched the country to andothersanctionedareas throughout ofentry ports fraudulently models, imported impoundingthemat CBP immediately tookcustody ofmore than 16,000 Kessler said. they hadvalid EPA certification onimportation,” way over limit. theauthorized “Volkswagen claimed vehicles theautomaker toutedas “green,” topollute EPA compliant, includingtheadvanced technology On theroad, thedevices allowed engineslabeled as unlikely event. required thecompany toreportitsown cover-up, an designed todefeat emissionstests. That would have with emissioncontrol“auxiliary devices,” software models—including Audi andPorsche—were equipped the Clean Air Act by notdisclosingthat numerous 2015, whentheEPA citedtheautomaker for violating CBP firstlearned about thedeceptioninSeptember need toknow what’s comingintoourports.” of ChiefCounsel. issue.“This was abordersecurity We counsel, enforcement andoperations, for CBP’s Office Lesleyanne Koch Kessler, deputyassociate chief informationimportant onimportation,” said lied by submittingfalse information andomitting That bondwas broken when “Volkswagen entities penalty. force inCBP’sthe driving strong stancefor thehuge Volkswagen’s blatant disregard for was that principle ofthat trust.”quite abreach citizens andhave controls. goodinternal This was Photo byJ2R/Shutterstock.com heavy price.” our trust,breach you’d betterbeprepared topay a counsel.chief “If you violate ourcustomslaws and aroundto importers theworld,” saidScott Falk, CBP’s “The Volkswagen settlementsendsapowerful message privileges. secure. Volkswagen would needto reapply for those whocanshowto importers theirsupplyare chains was revoked. The Office of Trade offers thesebenefits programs, streamline process, theimporting which Volkswagen’s trader membershipinCBPtrusted automaker refused tosettle. Malmo saidCBPstoodprepared to litigate ifthe penalties. Clean Air Act violations and$2.8billionincriminal paid $1.45billionincivilpenaltiesfor customsand Within the$4.3billionsettlement, Volkswagen interoffice coordination for enforcement.” Kessler calledthegroup “an excellentexampleof used onnew casesunderreview, Wallace added. it’s now amongthecenter’s bestpracticesandisbeing steps totake next.” The teamapproach was soeffective on track. We shared updates andtalked togetherabout “We were efficient,” shesaid. “Thishelpedustostay communicated frequently through conference calls. pooled theirresources, worked asaunitand offices anddivisionsconnectedtotheinvestigation and Aerospace CenterofExcellenceandExpertise. All explained Lisa Wallace whodirects the Automotive Collaboration was centraltotheteam’s success, totherecordthat fine. alsocontributed involved, themodelsandtheircombinedvalue, factors howof records todetermine many vehicles were The teamspentcountlesshoursreviewing thousands knew,” Kessler said. documents.entry “We wanted toknow what they issued to Volkswagen over toturn importers customs forthan ayear evidence. searching Summonseswere formed atradeenforcement teamthat invested more Offices ofFieldOperations, Trade, andChiefCounsel and Aerospace CenterofExcellence, from experts the 35 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 36 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 BORDER PATROL CHIEF island of Puerto Rico.island ofPuerto Peninsulawaters theFlorida andthe surrounding landbordersand 2,000ofcoastal international across 6,000 milesofMexicanandCanadian and BorderProtection, secures thenation’s borders Patrol, underitsparent agency ofU.S. Customs enforcement organizations intheworld. The Border He now law leadsone ofthemostimportant member ofClass174. on dutyasaU.S. BorderPatrol agent in1985, asa Vitiello firstputonagreen uniform andentered It’s beenmore than30years sincenewly sworn-in “Cowboys andIndians.” gameof only connection?Hischildhood peripheral thanthestreets ofLaredo.beautiful beaches The baseball thansaddlesandspurs; more about walking San Diego, heknew more about hotrods and Growing upinasuburb ofChicago, andalsoin the U.S. BorderPatrol. Ronald D. Vitiello never rode ahorseuntilhejoined By JaynaDesai TAKES CHARGE NEW

the SanJose, California, Police who Department enforcement. from Hemetaformerassistantchief Community CollegeinSanDiegoandstudiedlaw After highschool, Vitiello enrolled at Grossmont California. expanding toSouthern his father worked withUnited Airlines, was which following hisfreshman because year ofhighschool he andhisfamily moved from Addison toSanDiego family moved totheU.S. from Lithuania. In1977, whose parents camefrom Italy. Hismotherandher sister. Vitiello istheson ofafirstgeneration father withoneolderbrother andoneyoungerchild Illinois, andRegina toRobert Vitiello. Heisamiddle Vitiello onJuly was born 30, 1963, in Addison, an impactonmy decisionandfueledmy passion.” and thesymbolism. Hislife’s work definitely made a kid. Iwas fascinated by allofthegear, thestories Division. Hewas aChicago policeofficerwhenI was ofthe II aspart Army’s celebrated 10thMountain Vitiello. “My dad’s olderbrother was in World War “This typeofwork always interested me,” said Photo byDonnaBurton the U.S.BorderPatrol. as the17thChiefof taking theOathofOffice Headquarters after Vitiello speaksatCBP Photo courtesy ofVitiello family Border Patrol Academy (1985). completing histraining atthe Vitiello’s firsttriphome after in 1986. Heconsidershertobeanincredible and personally. Vitiello methiswife, Nuri, inLaredo move proved tobemomentous, bothprofessionally oncetheofficialacceptancelettercame.changed The to hismother’s astonishment, hisfeelings quickly Patrol isifhewere stationed closetohome. Much the only way hewould take ajobwiththeBorder loved oneshehadno planstoleave SanDiego. That Before hiscareer, starting and Vitiello toldhisfriends interaction inLaredo that you have.” you do, beingable tospeakSpanishinfluences every everybody intown knows whoyou are andwhat for theSpanishlanguage metolearn aswell. Because just somejobthat you have. And itwas important Vitiello said. “It’s inlifestyle rather achange than to Laredo, itwas acompletely different culture,” media whilelivinginSanDiego, but whenIgot “I saw thework that theBorderPatrol didinthe Mexico Cityand Washington, D.C. of Laredo, Dallas, Nogales, Swanton, McAllen, Texas, and Arizona Vermont; and, through thecities family weaved theirway across thecountry, through began hisBorderPatrol career. Sincethen, heandhis It was intheLaredo Sectorof Texas that Vitiello hislife.leading tothepositionthat changed 21-year-old navigate process through therecruiting for arole withtheBorder Patrol. He helpedthe worked at thecollegeandencouraged himtoapply Patrol. Photo byDonna Burton the 17thChiefof theU.S.Border DHS SecretaryJohn Kelly, becoming Vitiello receivesthe OathofOfficeby worked hardsowe couldenjoy acomfortable life.” made itvery clearwe were tohave lucky afather that complained tomy kidsabout theirdad’s work. I or specialevent hewas notable toattend. Inever nor my husbandcanremember abirthday, holiday, of thefather andhusbandheis. To thisday, my kids our deck, having adrink, andtalking. Iaminawe spending timetogetherandenjoy justsittingouton Ron ismy bestfriend,” Nuri, 52, said. “We love country. his thatthe importance heplaceduponserving comfortable makingthe required sacrifices, knowing knew shewanted tomarry Vitiello. Shesaidshewas ofhis duties, aspart ofthecountry parts Nuri that shemighthave tofollow herhusbandtoother Despite thecomplexitiesofrole, andknowing what theBorderPatrol didorwas untilImet Ron.” the bordertown ofMcAllen, Texas, Ihadnoidea Patrol agent,” said. Nuri “Even thoughIgrew upin attending Laredo JuniorCollegeandhewas aBorder “We whenIwas metthrough amutual friend CenterinNewCulinary York. Ron Jr., 20, iscurrently attending theInternational She iscurrently anaupairinParis, France. Their son, with anEnglishmajorandcreative minor. writing Alexis, 24, graduated from James MadisonUniversity for 29years andhave two children. Their daughter, systeminhislife.support They have beenmarried 37 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 38 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 a bike. Shealways onabike hesitated togetback Arianna, how didwithherdadwas learn toride Aguilar said. “The lastthingthat my daughter, “I’ve hadmany specialmomentswiththe Vitiellos,” husband’s death. well astheBorder Patrol family, was notifiedofher said heremembers theday herwholefamily, as Vitiello didnotknow herhusbandpersonally, she killed inthelineofdutyonJan. 19, 2008. Though husband, BorderPatrol Agent Luis Aguilar, was six years andconsidersthemclosefriends. Her Erica Aguilar hasknown forVitiello andNuri for theentire BorderPatrol family. thing andtheright time for himtobecomechief working longhours. Shebelieves thisistheright he didnotmindmoving from state tostate and because healways gave theorganization hisbest, how much Vitiello invested intheBorderPatrol and From thefirstday shemethim, couldsee Nuri wanted thisfor ourfamily. And sodidI.” I was usedto, but Iunderstoodwhy my husband parents were business owners, thiswas notalife was consistentintheirlives,” said. Nuri “Since my at-home mom, thiswould betheonethingthat for ourkidstohave somestability andasastay- “Ron andItalked about how itwas important home motherandwife. becomingastay-at-discussed thepossibilityofNuri commitment tomaintainasteady family life and After RonJr. 2years turned old, they madeajoint Photo courtesyof Vitiello family North Station, Texas (1985). his firstseizures intheLaredo Vitiello standingnexttooneof important andIintendtoprovideimportant ourworkforce he said. “Employee andideasare contributions have absolutewhenitcomestoourmission,” clarity “We have ourshare ofdifficulties, but peopleshould expressed through therecent HumanCapital Study. thataddress Border Patrol theconcerns employees isto aschief Vitiello saidoneofhistoppriorities ouragentsand support inthefield.” to continue toenhanceourmissioneffectiveness stewardship, we willhave significantopportunities role at thiskeythis critical moment. headquarters. of theBorderPatrolas deputyandactingchief at patrol agentchief inRioGrande Valley, andserving ofHomelandSecurity,Department asa serving through theranks, representing CBPat the as afrontline agent inLaredo andprogressing “He hasdoneitall,” McAleenansaid. “From starting totheposition. experience law enforcement leader” awealth whobrings of for himas 14years anddescribes “a tremendous shares thesamesentiment. Hehasknown Vitiello CBP Acting CommissionerKevin K. McAleenan 21,000-plus agents.” a BorderPatrol agent sohe canshow theway to is genuine andinspirational. Heknows theway of I have completefaith becausehe inhimaschief there byright herside, constantly her. reassuring her fear. Hewas sopatient with andwas Arianna again afterhisdeath, but Ronhelpedherovercome Photo courtesyof Vitiello family Academy inGlynco, Georgia(1989). instructor atthe Border Patrol Vitiello trainstobecomeadriving No onecouldbemore prepared for Under Ron’s Vitiello family (1993). Photocourtesy of 10-year highschool reunion Celebrating hiswife,Nuri’s, laws willalsoremain inthespotlight. communities.will change The nation’s immigration and how President Trump’s proposed borderwall Some ofthebiggestchallenges? Attrition, hiring, achievements. foreign assomeofBorderPatrol’s partners greatest them. Helistscapacity building andworking with ofhisfamilythe support andfriends, heisready for Vitiello realizes ahead. there are challenges But, with didn’t.” good person. Ibelieve inhim. Iwouldn’t behere ifI to hisleadershipstyle. And he’s justgenuinely a one ofthosepositions. alotofcredibility Hebrings histimewitheach through theranksandserving been aBorderPatrol agent traineeandgoing subjectmatterswith particular isextensive, having this position,” said. Luck “His breadth ofknowledge “Chief Vitiello for isthebestselectionincountry New Mexico. training at theBorderPatrol Academy in Artesia, when they were for driver detailedasinstructors forward. Heand Vitiello firstmetintheearly 1990s tomoveis anidealchoice BorderPatrol’s agenda organization for almost31years, believes Vitiello Directorate ScottLuck, whohasworked inthe Border Patrol ChiefofLaw Enforcement Operations employees through thevoice Ihave at headquarters.” to succeedat theirjobs. Iwant toempower our with theinformation, tools, they andsupport need Branch’s Director, Mitchell Pribble.PhotobyCaroleCondon with U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Tucson Air Monthan Air Force Basein Tucson, Arizona on April 11 Vitiello toursCBP’s Tucson Air BranchlocatedatDavis- and I am excited to be a part ofitsfuture.”and Iamexcitedtobeapart history.storied Today, we are addinganew chapter appropriately. The BorderPatrol hashadalongand to know what ishappening, andtorespond between theports, aswell ashaving thecapability providing at and substantialprotection andsecurity everywhere. But overall, thefocus shouldremain on us betterandhave todothebestI could tried regrets,” hesaid. “Sure, Iwould like tomake “I’ve beenblessed inthiscareer andhave no leadership. and acceptstheresponsibility that comeswithits Vitiello saidheisproudofBorderPatrol tobeapart put inaplacewhere they doheartfelt things.” think thepublic understandshow agents are often responsible for theirwell-being andsafety. Idon’t individuals seeontheirjourney andwe’re theones degree ofcompassion. We’re thefirstonesthat these approach undocumentedbordercrossers withahigh fulfill thismission, us. people must trust Most agents the executive branch,” Vitiello said. “But inorderto law, ourown developments, of orthrough priorities the policiesthat are given tous, eitherthrough the “We execute ourmissionwithintheframework and Acting ChiefoftheU.S.BorderPatrol. a permanentselectionismade.CarlaProvostwillserveas D. Vitiello willserveas Acting DeputyCommissioneruntil Acting CommissionerMcAleenanannouncedthatRonald (“Tex”) Alles asDirectoroftheU.S.SecretService April 25, Following thePresident’s appointmentofRandolphD. Editor’s Note: 39 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 40 40 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 field conditions. toevaluateopportunity thewall prototypes inactual gives CBPatry-before-you-buy advantage and an four” prototypes, hesaid, notingthe arrangement “Plans callfor nomore thaneightandnoless CBP’s Officeof Facilities and AssetManagement. according toKarlCalvo, assistantcommissionerfor before investing substantialmoney intotheproject, best materials, building methodsandfinaldesigns willguideCBPinidentifyingthe The structures thissummerintheSanDiegoSector.be constructed prototypes, somepotentially ashigh30-feet, will designedtodeterillegalU.S.materials entry. The reinforced concrete, othersfrom unspecified multiple prototypes--some madefromconstruct Once contractorsare selected, CBPwillhave them robust response. prototypes for consideration, generated a which a request for contractorstosubmitdesignsand and Asset Management hasmoved forward with immigration enforcement. CBP’s Officeof Facilities borderbysouthern improving and bordersecurity executive ordertoachieve operational control ofthe The project fulfillsPresident Donald Trump’s andall-weathertechnologies roads. includes lighting, cameras, sensors, otherrelated that ofacomprehensivebe part barrier security of theSouthwest borderwithMexico. The wall will awall alongmuch effort todesignandconstruct U.S. the Customsand Border Protection isdriving By PaulKoscak CBP’S EXPERTISE WITH AHEAD MOVING employ tobreak through thebarrier. and othermethodsthey expectbordercrossers to test thewall’s resistance. They willusepower tools Calvo said. That meansBorderPatrol agents will requirements andwithstand testing,”“destructive Prototypes must meetU.S. Border Patrol concrete barrierasitlinesthebanks of the RioGrandenearMcAllen, Texas. Metal fencingcanbeseenatop a Photo byGlenn Fawcett 41 41 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 42 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 a lotoftrafficthat comesfrom thesouth.” agents bebetter prepared andsafer, anditwillreduce recent visittotheLaredo Sectorin Texas. “It willhelp Vitiello, ontheimproveda systemduring barrier said CBP Acting DeputyCommissionerRonald “I’ve seenitsimpactandeffect onbordersecurity,” training standards. agentsAir andMarine and withoutreducing hiring additional 5,000BorderPatrol andmore than500 In meetingthat goal, an CBPiscommittedtohiring andactsofterrorism.” andhumantrafficking drug aimstopreventtechnology illegalimmigration, by“supported adequate personnelalongwithadded The presidentstated further theborderbarrier, priorities. his order, addressing oneoftheadministration’s top andpublic safety,”security President Trump stated in or admissionpresent asignificantthreat tonational illegally entertheUnitedStates withoutinspection oftheUnitedStates.national security Aliens who tothe iscriticallyimportant “Border security from side. thenorth effective, but alsoaesthetically pleasingwhenviewed systemthat’sbarrier feasible, durable andcost evaluation provides aroadmap tobuild awall and CBP’s analysis, preconstruction planningand Photo byDonna Burton the RioGrandeValley. vehicle alongtheborderin A U.S. BorderPatrol requirements lighting, dependingontopography, operational fencing, vehicle barriers, operational roads and isamixofwalls,The borderinfrastructure pedestrian infrastructure. CBPmaintains705milesofbarrier. CBP haslongbeeninvolved inbuilding border administration priorities.” in meetingUSBP’s operational requirements and institutional knowledge tomove forward swiftly retained theappropriate subjectmatterand expertise and crossed steelplanksasroad barriers. “We’ve said Flossman, tasksthat installedsteelfencing Pedestrian Fence 225and Vehicle Fence 300projects,” “The PMOwillleverage from the lessonslearned and make finaldecisions, Calvo explained. withtheU.S.partnership Army ofEngineers, Corps leads ateamthat willoversee construction, in within theOfficeof Facilities and AssetManagement, Program ManagementAir andMarine Office(PMO) Loren Flossman, thedirector oftheBorderPatrol & Mexico andthat’s agoodthingfor us.” end result isasafer border. “That’s agoodthingfor Acting DeputyCommissioner Vitiello notedthe mayWhile thebarrier impactsomecommunities, and otherfactors. 43 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 44 | FRONTLINE | VOL 9 | ISSUE 2 responds tocontingenciesandnationaltaskings. in theairandmaritimeenvironments, criminal networksandprovidesdomainawareness and cargoapproachingU.S.borders,investigates the nation’s interior. unlawful people AMO interdicts environments atandbeyondtheborder, andwithin AMO conductsitsmissionintheairandmaritime States, PuertoRico,andU.S.Virgin Islands, mission supportpersonnelthroughouttheUnited With approximately1,800federalagentsand America’s securityinterests. and employouruniqueskillsetstopreserve advanced aeronauticalandmaritimecapabilities and protectingthe American people.We apply enforcement organizationdedicatedtoserving Air andMarineOperations(AMO)isafederallaw Operations Air andMarine CBP Ethos Series(2of6)