"The Border Patrol remains steadfast in our commitment to gain operational control of our borders and the deployment of Texas National Guard personnel will move us rapidly forward on that commitment," stated Chief Patrol Agent Lynne M. Underdown. "With the addition of National Guardsmen, Border Patrol Agents who are currently working in administrative, logistical and support duties will return to the front line protecting our nation's border-protecting our community."
"The Texas National Guard and the Border Patrol once again demonstrate to the nation that we are here for the citizens of our country-standing ready to support the security of the border," stated Colonel Robert I. Canon, Joint Forces Texas Law Enforcement Support-Border Support, Task Force Commander Texas National Guard.
The intent of Operation Jumpstart is a short-term measure that allows the Border Patrol to increase deterrence and border security capabilities while additional Border Patrol Agents are trained at the academy. National Guard units will assist the Border Patrol by executing a myriad of missions such as logistical and administrative support, operating detection systems, augmenting border-related intelligence analysis efforts and provide training. With the Texas National Guard providing this much needed support; Border Patrol Agents will be free to concentrate on border enforcement.
Operation Jumpstart is a bridge to the internal buildup that the Border Patrol is moving forward on. Up to 6,000 Border Patrol agents will be hired by the end of calendar year 2008, increasing Border Patrol staffing to approximately18,300 agents nationwide.
