Air and Marine Operations (AMO), a component of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, collaborated with the U.S. Border Patrol to carry out a medical evacuation in southern Arizona. On March 5, an incident occurred near Ruby, Arizona, about 20 miles west of Nogales. A Tucson Air Branch UH-60 Black Hawk aircrew deployed Tucson Sector BORSTAR agents to assist in searching for suspected illegal aliens.
During the operation, one subject attempted to escape. A Tucson Station Border Patrol agent pursued on foot but fell and sustained injuries. After apprehending the fleeing individual, BORSTAR assessed the injured agent's condition and determined he needed further medical treatment. The AMO aircrew transported him to Banner University Medical Center in Tucson for evaluation.
The event underscores the collaboration between AMO and U.S. Border Patrol in addressing emergencies in difficult terrain. "AMO’s specialized aviation assets provide vital support in search and rescue operations," ensuring rapid response capabilities in remote areas.
"AMO safeguards our Nation by anticipating and confronting security threats through our aviation and maritime law enforcement expertise," utilizing innovative capabilities and partnerships at the border and beyond. AMO operates throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands.
For more information on Air and Marine Operations, visit www.cbp.gov or follow AMO on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is described as "America's frontline: the nation's largest law enforcement organization" tasked with protecting America across various environments while facilitating safe travel and trade to ensure economic prosperity.