House Passes Legislation to Honor Fallen Officer Javier Vega, Jr.

Special to La Feria News

Washington, DC – On Tuesday, October 10th, the House of Representatives passed legislation to name a Border Patrol checkpoint for fallen officer Javier Vega, Jr, a Border Patrol Agent who was shot and killed by two undocumented criminals while on a family fishing trip in Raymondville, Texas.

Border Patrol Agent Vega was a native of La Feria, Texas and a veteran who served in the United States Marine Corps. He was assigned to the Border Patrol station in Kingsville, Texas where he worked as a canine handler with his dog Goldie at the Sarita Checkpoint.

Congressmen Filemon Vela (D-Brownsville) and Michael McCaul (R-Austin) introduced H.R. 3375, The Javier Vega, Jr. Memorial Act of 2017, in the House and Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) in the Senate on July 24, 2017. The legislation renames the Border Patrol checkpoint where Agent Vega was assigned after him.

“Javier Vega dedicated himself to public service, and his sacrifice in defense of his country and his family will never be forgotten,” said Rep. Filemon Vela. “Our nation owes Mr. Vega and his family an immeasurable debt of gratitude.”

“Agent Vega’s heroism certainly merits this honor,” said Sen. John Cornyn. “In addition to donning his uniform to serve our nation every day, Agent Vega paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending his family and community. His death was tragic, but I’m grateful this bill will now head to the President’s desk so that all who pass through the Sarita checkpoint can recognize his service and sacrifice.”

“As Chairman of Homeland Security, I am proud of all of our Border Patrol Agents who put their lives on the line every day to protect our homeland and keep Americans safe,” said Rep. Michael McCaul. “Agent Vega is remembered as a dedicated, loyal agent and U.S. Marine whose commitment to protecting our communities in south Texas should serve as an example to us all. By renaming this checkpoint we want to ensure that his faithful service to our nation will never be forgotten.”

Agent Vega is survived by his wife, sons, parents, and brother, and his death in the line of duty has been deeply felt by countless friends, neighbors, and coworkers.