There certainly seems to be an assault on law enforcement and military from the Chief Executive Officer of the land. This is no frontal assault, it is happening behind close doors. Where, at the highest levels, managers are being told that their funding is drying up. Or in some cases, they are given “incentives to play ball;” bonuses. They appeal to the ego or the pocket book of their managers. This type of behavior trickles down from the top to the lowest level managers and their excuse is, “I am just following orders.” We can look back sixty years and these were the same excuses given by Germany Nazis during World War II, “Just following orders.” There is nothing wrong with following orders. It is imperative in some cases that this happens quickly, however, in some cases the circumstances dictate the action needed.
Five years ago, US Border Patrol managers were worried about keeping employees around long enough to make a difference in border enforcement. Agents who had been in long enough and who were educated enough to have a college degree, used the USBP as a stepping stone to their real career and profession; some where else.
In response to this, the Agency "rushed" to hire new border patrol agents to fill empty "boat spaces." The order was given that no one would fail the Border Patrol Academy; even if they didn’t fit the job. Pay increases were authorized and uniforms and equipment were funded. Congress got on board and mandated levels of manpower to be operating on the border and these operations were fully funded. Overtime was never a problem. An agent could work his regular schedule and could count on three extra days of 1945 Act Overtime. Managers would monitor agents so that they didn’t fall below the 25% level of AUO. One agent was fired because he refused to work any AUO, after he went to 0% AUO.
Priorities. Sequestration, this idea, came from the White House. Even though Congress funds programs, the White House has the final say to where the funds are being spent. Yes, Congress was in collusion. What difference does that make?
What difference does it make? The Chief Executive Officer of the land meets with Illegal Aliens and doesn’t have them arrested while on Federal property?
What difference does it make whether to salute or not salute the Marine standing at the door of Marine 1?
Actions of an individual say more about what is going on than their “speak,” no matter how well their “speak” is delivered.
Actions. This is the Memorial weekend some of you will be working enjoying that overtime. Some will be mandated not to work the holiday because management is watching the budget. Remember you are an American and some of your fellow Americans aren’t here to enjoy the Memorial Day Holiday because their devotion to God, duty, and their country.
Say a prayer, have a toast, and thank God for that person who once was and now is gone, never forget the love and respect.
