The first event was held in the AMO hanger at the Bellingham Washington Airport. The ceremony was opened by the CBP Honor Guard presentation of the colors. Director of Air Operations Keith Powell welcomed the more than 225 officers, agents, and non-uniformed staff members in attendance and spoke about the spirit of cooperation among the local offices that make up CBP in the Bellingham-Blaine area citing several recent successes in narcotic and alien interdictions as representative of this outstanding teamwork. Director Powell then introduced Commissioner Basham.

Commissioner Basham opened his remarks by observing how refreshing it was to be in the field with the staff, officers and agents who make CBP a success every day. He also took note of the traditional cooler Northwest weather and gray skies which contrasted sharply with the warmer climate of yesterday’s mission appreciation events in California. He recalled his trepidation on being asked to become the second Commissioner of CBP noting what a significant challenge it would be in an agency with such a large work force, diverse disciplines and so geographically dispersed weaving his remarks towards his theme of “Every day.” The Commissioner recapped the challenges CBP faces “every day,” 1.1 million passengers every day, 333,000 vehicles every day, 235,000 air passengers every day, 79,000 entries every day, 69,000 containers every day, $81 million dollars collected every day, dangerous criminals are apprehended every day, illicit narcotics are prevented from entering our communities every day and our nation’s food supply is protected every day.

The Commissioner then focused on the core CBP mission to prevent terrorists and their weapons from entering the United States, to prevent harm to our citizens and to preclude another 9/11. He summed up his remarks by acknowledging the “critical mission performed by incredible people”. Commissioner Basham then recognized 11 officers, agents and non-uniformed staff personnel by presenting them with their longevity awards. This was immediately followed by a reception where every employee had the opportunity to share their individual concerns and optimism about the future of CBP directly with the Commissioner.

The second event was hosted at the Seattle-Tacoma airport and was attended by 175 CBP employees. During this event Commissioner Basham also addressed the assembly and encouraged each employee to recognize their peers and colleagues for their daily efforts while maintaining sight of family within CBP. He also urged all to be reminiscent of the eight CBP employees who have lost their lives in the past year amongst those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the mission. Following his address Commissioner Basham then presented time-in-service awards to three employees and greeted numerous others during receptions before and after the event. Many in attendance have already expressed encouraging words following this event, including that they felt more connected to the mission of CBP, more appreciated for their contribution, and were happy to meet the Commissioner.