To formally recognize Border Patrol agents who are injured in the line of duty as a direct result of a hostile act or armed conflict, The Purple Cross was established in 2001. Border Patrol agent Anthony Gutierrez of Mc Allen Texas Border Patrol Station was awarded this metal for his service the night of August 18, 2009.
Gutierrez was seriously injured while on foot patrol near Peñitas Texas. An all terrain vehicle driven by a scout for drug smugglers struck him causing serious injuries.
“Agent Gutierrez is well deserving of this meritorious award,” Acting Chief Patrol Agent Ricardo E. Aguirre said. “Agent Gutierrez demonstrated his determination to keep our communities safe, even when it meant confronting a threat and placing himself in harm’s way.”
Less than 100 Border Patrol Agents have ever received this prestigious metal.
