El Paso, Texas - U.S. Border Patrol Search, Trauma and rescue team (BORSTAR) hosted a media availability at the Airport Wyndam Hotel in El Paso on May 5 regarding the graduation ceremony for "BORSTAR Class XXV". 

A total of 26 graduates from throughout the country made the final cut to become graduates. The ceremony consisted of those who graduated, their families, friends and supporters.

BORSTAR Mission Leader Michael Vargas provided the introductory remarks. The graduates received their pins and credentials from National BORSTAR Commander Jesse D. Munoz. The ceremony also featured a keynote address by Dr. Kathryn Brinsfield, the Assistant Secretary for Health Affairs and Chief Medical Officer.

The El Paso Sector Honor Guard posted the colors for the ceremony, and the Paso Sector Field Communications Branch produced a video highlighting the rigors that graduates must endure in order to complete the challenging curriculum. 

The ceremony reinforced the BORSTAR mission statement:

In support of the Border Patrol National Strategic Plan, the BORSTAR Unit will provide law enforcement, search and rescue, and medical response capabilities for the U.S. Border Patrol.

Additionally, BORSTAR will provide mutual assistance to local, county, state, tribal and federal entities by responding to enforcement and search and rescue requirements, acts of terrorism, potential terrorism and natural disasters throughout the United States. The BORSTAR Unit will provide training, support, and operational guidance upon request, and as directed by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Commissioner and the United States Border Patrol Chief.