Air and Marine Operations (AMO), part of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, dedicated the Michel O. Maceda Marine Unit in southwestern Puerto Rico on Thursday. This dedication honors Marine Interdiction Agent Michel O. Maceda, who died during a drug interdiction operation on November 17, 2022.
The Mayagüez Marine Unit was renamed following the passage of the bipartisan Michel O. Maceda Memorial Act (PL 118-139). The act was introduced by former Resident Commissioner and current Governor Jenniffer González Colón and Senator Rick Scott. Congress approved it unanimously, and President Biden signed it into law on December 12, 2024.
A ceremony at the San Juan Custom House paid tribute to AMO Marine Interdiction Agents' bravery and sacrifice. It included recognition through the AMO Honorary Awards program and honored Michel O. Maceda's dedication.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem attended alongside Governor Gonzalez-Colon. Jonathan P. Miller, Executive Assistant Commissioner for AMO, stated: “This event stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment and sacrifice of AMO personnel in protecting U.S. borders and combating transnational crime.”
The AMO Honorary Awards program recognizes individuals and teams for extraordinary heroism and achievement.
AMO protects national security with aviation and maritime law enforcement expertise across various locations including Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands, operating with about 1,800 agents, 240 aircraft, and 300 marine vessels.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is America's largest law enforcement organization with over 65,000 members ensuring national security through innovation, intelligence, collaboration, and trust.
