Desert Duty
On the Line with the U.S. Border Patrol

Covering a fifty-year span of law enforcement,Desert Duty reveals the patriotic sense of duty and compassionate calling that motivates the men and women who guard the borders of the United States.

The agents candidly discuss the rewards and frustrations of holding the line against illegal immigrants, smugglers & other criminalsowhile often having to help the very people they are trying to thwart when they get into trouble in the desert. As one agent explains, "The thrill is tracking 'em up before they die. It's a rough ol' way to goorun outta water in this desert."

Foreword: Silent Long Enough, by Charles Bowden
Introduction: On Edge
On the Line
Chet Wilson
Ed Tuffly
Jim Runyan
Jackie Mason
Hank Hays
Joe McCraw
Colonel R. Child
Glen Payne
George Boone
Howard Aitken
Mark Haynes
Alvaro "Mike" Obregon
Robert "Mac" McLemore
Randy Herberholz
Wendy Conde
Kenny Smith
Joe Brigman
Ronald S. "Ron" Colburn
Carla L. Provost
Conclusion: Before They Die
Our Approach, and Acknowledgments
Sources and Suggested Reading
The Editors