Remembering Javier Vega, a Brave Border Patrol Agent

In: The Lonestar Weekly   Posted 09/26/2016
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When great Texans step up to protect others in their community, their bravery and sacrifice should be honored.

That’s the story of Border Patrol Agent Javier Vega Jr. Shortly after Agent Vega and his family cast their poles on a Sunday afternoon fishing trip in Raymondville in 2014, they were ambushed by two men who tried to rob them. Tragically, Javier was shot and killed while attempting to subdue the assailants and protect his family.  

After almost a year of fighting bureaucratic red tape, this week the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced it would designate Agent Vega’s death as a line of duty fatality and add his name to the CBP Valor Memorial. Congressman Filemon Vela and I had urged the CBP Commissioner to do so not only so his family receives the proper benefits they deserve, but so Agent Vega’s service to his country and South Texas community can be honored. 

He dedicated his life to serving our country and protecting his community, and now Agent Vega will continue to serve as an example for folks across our great state.