According to DOD News, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has issued orders allowing service members stationed at the southern border to conduct patrols on foot or aboard Stryker armored vehicles. The new directive, effective as of March 20, 2025, aims to create a more dynamic and effective posture for Joint Task Force Southern Border (JTF-SB), which had previously focused on stationary monitoring activities.
Army Maj. Jennifer L. Staton, spokesperson for the Defense Department, emphasized the advantages of this shift. “Patrolling provides an adaptable and proactive approach, enabling service members to cover greater areas while observing the border from various perspectives,” Staton stated. She added that mobility introduces an element of unpredictability, complicating attempts to plan illegal crossings.
While troops are now equipped to enhance detection and monitoring capabilities, their role remains supportive rather than law enforcement. Observations of illegal border crossings will be relayed to U.S. Customs and Border Protection for enforcement actions, ensuring interagency collaboration.
The expanded mission reflects broader efforts to strengthen border security under President Donald Trump’s administration. Recent deployments include thousands of active-duty personnel from various units, including a Stryker brigade combat team and a general support aviation battalion, alongside Marines and soldiers already stationed since January.
Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell reiterated the significance of the initiative, underscoring the Pentagon’s dedication to partnering with the Department of Homeland Security to secure the border and uphold national sovereignty.
This development showcases the military’s adaptability and commitment to ensuring security and sovereignty at the southern border, as highlighted in the DOD News report.
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