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An independent investigation indicated that at least 17 National Guardsmen have been killed during the controversial Operation Lone Star. Despite the border being a hot-button topic during this election cycle, little to no attention has been turned to these deaths.
In March 2021, Texas Governor Greg Abbott executed Operation Lone Star in an attempt to tackle the border crisis–an issue especially pertinent to Texans and those residing in other border states. Intended to deter illegal crossings, arrest smugglers and other transnational organized crime operatives, and stop the flow of fentanyl and other deadly substances into America, Abbott deployed both National Guardsmen and Texas Department of Safety (DPS) personnel to the southern border.
He claims that “While the federal government ignores this crisis, Texas is holding the line.” Other than the physical security presence on the border, Operation Lone Star also gives civilians the opportunities to donate to a myriad of projects including transportation of migrants and the building of a border wall. Groups such as the ACLU have deemed the operation “unconstitutional” and cited instances of racial profiling.
Of the 17 deaths, one involved a service member drowning while trying to rescue a drowning migrant. Others included negligent discharge of firearms and suicides. The suicides and reports of the living conditions indicate a lack of oversight and sub standard living conditions for those deployed.
One guardsman anonymously spoke to Texas Public Radio. This individual has been deployed to the border since the beginning of Operation Lone Star. He alleges, “The first few years were rough…Just because of the living conditions. We were all crammed into ... 30-man trailers … no personal space. ... I know there's a lot of hardship just with the living situation.” This standard of living is not ideal for anyone, let alone those expected to be ready to potentially engage in a conflict.
I have reached out to the Public Affairs Office via email regarding the housing conditions and deaths. I am yet to receive a response and will update accordingly.
Featured image: Photo by 1st Sgt. Suzanne Ringle
