[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 1]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 1146]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING BORDER AGENT LUIS AGUILAR

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. THOMAS G. TANCREDO

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 29, 2008

  Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the sacrifice of 
Senior Patrol Agent Luis Aguilar of the Border Patrol from Yuma, 
Arizona. Agent Aguilar was killed in the line of duty on January 19th 
while trying to apprehend a suspected drug smuggler in the Imperial 
Sand Dunes Recreation Area. He was 32 years old.
  The core values of the Border Patrol emphasize vigilance, service, 
and integrity in the defense of America and its laws. Those individuals 
who commit themselves to these principles recognize the prominence of 
the American way of life as well as its fragility; something that must 
be defended against those elements which seek to undermine democracy 
and freedom. Agent Aguilar spent much of his life as a guardian of 
these values and this Nation.
  Agent Aguilar began his career with the Border Patrol in 2002 when he 
enrolled in the 519th session of the Border Patrol Academy. Following 
graduation, he was stationed at the Yuma Border Patrol Station where he 
quickly earned the respect and loyalty of his fellow agents and the 
surrounding community.
  This tragic incident highlights not only the dangers border agents 
encounter, but also emphasizes the extreme heroism and valor exhibited 
by those whose job it is to keep Americans safe.
  Madam Speaker, my most heartfelt condolences go out to Luis' family 
and friends. He will undoubtedly be missed by all those who knew and 
loved him.

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