ALPINE, Texas – The Big Bend Area Law Enforcement Officers Association (BBALEOA) honored officers and agents who died in the line of duty in West Texas on May 30, 2018, at the campus of Sul Ross State University.
Campus of Sul Ross State Univ.
This year, Border Patrol Agents Isaac Morales and Border Patrol Agent Rogelio Martinez, who both died in the line of duty in 2017, were added to the memorial. Historical additions of Big Spring Police Department Officer Elijah James Cass, Presidio County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Simon L. De Leon and Southern Pacific Railroad Police Department Detective John L. Elsberry were also paid tribute to and added to the memorial.
The ceremony included the reading of the names added to the memorial. There was also a presentation of colors, a three-volley salute, the playing of taps and a flag-folding ceremony. This year’s color and honor guards were made up of officers from several area law enforcement agencies. In addition, the Midland County Sheriff’s Office "Mounted Patrol" featured the traditional rider-less horse.
This year’s Master of Ceremonies was Big Bend Sector Chief Patrol Agent Robert L. Boatright.
Numerous members of the community attended the ceremony to honor the fallen, and support this year’s memorial ceremony for local law enforcement personnel.