TUCSON, Ariz. –Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents visited Rattlesnake Elementary School in Marana Friday to thank a third grade class for naming the newest member of Tucson Sector’s Horse Patrol Unit. Students decided Roxie would be the horse’s name after their winning essays earned them the naming rights.

Accompanied by Roxie, agents presented the class with a plaque and certificates of appreciation for the essay writers. They were accompanied by a Border Patrol canine team who demonstrated how animals partner with agents to perform difficult jobs in austere locations.

U.S. Border Patrol has used horses since 1924 to reach the most remote and treacherous areas of the border. Today’s Horse Patrol honors the traditions of previous generations and continues to safeguard America’s borders with quarter horses and once wild mustangs.

For more details regarding this news release contact the Tucson Sector Public Affairs Office at tca-pao@cbp.dhs.gov or by phone at 520-748-3210. Tucson Sector is also LiveU capable. Contact us to schedule an interview.