***The Iowa Standard is an independent media voice. We rely on the financial support of our readers to exist. Please consider a one-time sign of support or becoming a monthly supporter at $5, $10/month - whatever you think we're worth! If you’ve ever used the phrase “Fake News” — now YOU can actually DO something about it! You can also support us on PayPal at [email protected] or Venmo at Iowa-Standard-2018 or through the mail at: PO Box 112 Sioux Center, IA 51250

Two of U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s own were among the more than 200 fallen law enforcement officers honored during the 25th annual Blue Mass Tuesday in Washington, D.C.

The mass – a somber but uplifting event – remembered officers lost during the past year, including Border Patrol Agent Donna Doss, 49, a 16-year veteran who died Feb. 2 after being struck by a vehicle while assisting a Texas Department of Public Safety trooper in Tye, Texas, and Christopher Todd Bacon, 51, a collections operations manager in CBP’s Office of Intelligence in Grand Forks, North Dakota, who died in an automobile crash June 7, near Crookston, Minnesota. A former Border Patrol agent and CBP air enforcement agent, Bacon’s law enforcement career spanned 22 years.

Border Patrol Chief Carla Provost was among the many officials in attendance, along with U.S. Attorney General William Barr, Acting Homeland Security Secretary Kevin McAleenan and CBP Acting Commissioner John Sanders.

“It’s always humbling to be here for the Blue Mass to honor all men and women who gave their lives in the line of duty,” Provost said.

The Blue Mass drew an overflow of hundreds of participants. Members of the Border Patrol, Air and Marine Operations and Field Operations along with many families and friends made up a large part of those paying their respects.

“We celebrate the lives and the memories of all first responders who serve our communities and our country,” offered Bishop Roy Campbell of Washington’s Archdiocese in his address during the service. “I know it isn’t an easy calling. You are in our prayers. We pray every day that you return to your loved ones.”

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here