Nebraskan Team Heads to Eagle Pass, Texas Border

May 19, 2024

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A team from KETV NewsWatch 7 gears up to document Nebraska’s involvement in safeguarding the U.S.-Mexico border. Bill Schammert and Eddie Messel will be reporting from Eagle Pass, Texas, covering the Nebraska National Guard’s activities during their three-month deployment.

Nebraska Governor’s Decision to Deploy

Governor Jim Pillen made the decision to send Nebraska’s unit to the border for the second consecutive year, highlighting the importance of addressing the border crisis. Pillen emphasized the severity of the situation during a meeting with fellow governors in Austin, citing concerns over human trafficking and drug smuggling.

In March, Pillen authorized the deployment of approximately three dozen Nebraska National Guard members for a 90-day mission at the border, demonstrating the state’s commitment to assisting neighboring Texas in border security efforts.

Multi-Faceted Support Efforts

In addition to the National Guard deployment, Pillen dispatched around 10 members of the Nebraska State Patrol to support border operations. These personnel, equipped with advanced drone technology, bolstered surveillance efforts along the border.

The collaboration between Nebraska and Texas authorities facilitated KETV’s access to border operations and interviews with deployed guard members, providing valuable insight into the ongoing efforts to address the crisis.

Humanitarian Focus Amid Political Discourse

Governor Pillen emphasized the humanitarian aspect of the border crisis, urging Nebraskans to set aside political differences and recognize the urgency of the situation. He likened the state’s support for Texas to aiding neighbors during natural disasters, emphasizing the shared responsibility in safeguarding communities.

Decrease in Migrant Crossings

Recent statistics from U.S. Customs and Border Protection indicate a decrease in migrant encounters in early 2024, following a peak in December. The numbers for January through March remained significantly lower, signaling potential progress in border security efforts.

Stay tuned for KETV’s live coverage of the border operations, providing in-depth insights into Nebraska’s role in addressing the ongoing crisis.

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