Featured News - Current News - Archived News - News Categories

U.S. Border Patrol change of command ceremony

by jmaloni
Mon, Aug 20th 2012 11:55 am

Chief Patrol Agent Brian S. Hastings takes command of the Buffalo Sector

Press release

On Aug. 21, the U.S. Border Patrol, Buffalo Sector, will conduct a change of command ceremony at the Niagara Falls Air Base Theater. This formal affair involves the swearing-in of Chief Patrol Agent Brian S. Hastings as chief of the Buffalo Sector.

The change of command ceremony is deeply rooted in military tradition, dating back to the middle ages, and allows Border Patrol agents and members of the community to witness the transition of leadership that lays the foundation for the future.

As a part of the ceremony, the new chief assumes formal command of the sector by saying, "Sir, I assume command." These four words are symbolic of a new beginning. For the new chief, the change of command ceremony heralds the beginning of a challenging tour of duty and for the sector employees it establishes new leadership paradigms and a revitalization of motivation and professionalism.

The ceremony concludes with the passing of the guidon, a flag that identifies a company, troop, or organization. Green and gold streamers that represent each of the 20 operational sectors of the Border Patrol surround the Border Patrol guidon. Passing the guidon from one chief to another is a symbolic passing of the trust and well being of a sector from one to another, but it also symbolizes the commitment, trust and fidelity represented by this most sacred Border Patrol symbol.

"It is an honor to be selected to lead and direct Border Patrol operations at Buffalo Sector," Hastings said. "I am proud to represent a sector that has an outstanding reputation. I look forward to working with the agents of this sector and the surrounding community"

Buffalo Sector is responsible for 341 miles of shared border with Canada. The sector consists of sector headquarters in Grand Island and stations located in Buffalo, Niagara Falls, Oswego, Rochester and Wellesley Island, N.Y., and Erie, Pa.

Hometown News

View All News