The Failure of the Border Patrol and U.S. Military in Border Security

Border security has come to the forefront of political wrangling in the United States since the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. While this has been an important and very sensitive issue over the past few decades, the attacks signaled a new era in homeland security. Most notably, this interest stems from the fact that the attacks were carried out by individuals who were already in this country. Questions have arisen as to how these individuals managed to get into this country and carry out their attacks without any real hindrances. The central conclusion that most people have come to is that this was the result of failed border security.

The border that separates the United States from Mexico seems to be the most visible evidence of the weakness of the border security infrastructure. Those who live along this 2,000 mile border know this better than anyone. Every day, stories are heard about Mexican nationals who illegally cross this border in search of a better life here in the United States. The very fact that people are able to cross this border and on occasion be successful has raised questions as to whether security along this border is effective.

One aspect of this issue that has been a constant source of controversy is the issue of border militarization. The United States Border Patrol is the agency currently assigned the responsibility of securing the Mexican border. The United States military has, however, been assisting the Border Patrol in specific tasks relating to this endeavor, including interception of drug smugglers. Despite the best efforts of both these organizations, their inherent flaws make them currently incapable of adequately securing our borders and make it clear that a new and more stable agency must take their place in these duties.