Here It Is

Most of you probably know this by now, but ...

On Sept. 30, I accepted a position with the Department of Homeland Security (US Customs and Border Protection) to become a US Border Patrol Agent. I was offered Blythe, Calif., or Yuma, Ariz. I chose Yuma because a) it’s a bigger city (pop. 85,000) that offers more professional opportunities for Katie, b) it has an airport, and c) California taxes and cost of living aren’t friendly.

My Enter on Duty date is this Thursday in Yuma, at which time I will be sworn in, have an orientation, fill out HR paperwork, and tour the area. Next Monday, the government will fly me to Artesia, N.M., about 2½ hours northeast of El Paso, Texas, to begin an 11-week training program at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC). My graduation date is early January. Upon completion, I will likely stay an additional 8 weeks for Spanish training. (I know a lot of Spanish but am out of practice and by no means fluent in the language.)

According to my schedule, I should finish Spanish training in late February. At that time I should get 10-14 days to get everything squared away in Atlanta before officially beginning work along the Mexican border. (Of course, this is dependent on me not flunking out or getting injured while in Artesia.)

This move probably surprises (or even sounds downright crazy to) many of you, but it was not an irrational decision; it was five months in the making. I’ve always had an interest in law enforcement and the desire to do something for the greater good. One of my biggest regrets is not enlisting in the military after graduation of high school or college. This is my way of serving the country, on the front lines of homeland security. It is something I feel strongly about and at which I believe I will excel.

The Border Patrol finds an average of only one qualified candidate for every 30 to 40 applicants. I am one of those few qualified applicants, and this is an opportunity I can’t pass up. Katie understands and is being supportive, even if it means being away from her for a few months and walking away from her (really good) job and career. It also contradicts our desire to move back to the Midwest but, in 20 years, I don’t want to lament about not accepting this position.

Lastly, Artesia is on Mountain Standard Time, meaning I’ll be an hour behind most of you. My evenings and weekends will be free, though. If anyone wants to call or e-mail, the contact info is below. (I'll also post updates on the blog.)

Cell: 678-447-7025
e-mail: trentmason@bellsouth.net