Melissa Dalton’s Insightful Visit to the Southwest Border
Observing Defense Operations Firsthand
Department of Defense Spokesman Lt. Col. David Herndon recently provided a readout of Melissa Dalton, Performing the Duties of Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, leading a delegation to the Southwest border from Jan. 11-12.
This visit allowed Dalton and her team to observe firsthand how the Department of Defense (DoD) contributes to the U.S. government’s efforts in securing the nation’s borders.
Collaboration and Strategy
Dalton was joined by Major General Matthew Smith of the Joint Task Force – North, Brigadier General John Lubas from the Department of the Army, and Brigadier General Robert Davis from U.S. Northern Command. Their collaborative effort underlines the strategic importance of border security and the role of the DoD in this national endeavor.
DoD’s Role in Border Security
Meeting with Deployed Service Members
The delegation met with service members who were actively deployed in support of the San Diego Sector U.S. Border Patrol. These interactions provided valuable insights into the on-ground realities and challenges faced by personnel at the border.
Understanding Operational Dynamics
Dalton and her team received operational updates and experienced immersions in various aspects of border security. They observed mobile surveillance support, remote video detection, camera monitoring, and light rotary wing aircraft operations.
This comprehensive exposure to the range of technologies and strategies employed at the border was crucial in understanding the nuances of border security management.
Conclusion: A Unified Effort for Border Security
Emphasizing DoD’s Continued Commitment
Ms. Dalton’s visit underlines the DoD’s unwavering commitment to a whole-of-government approach to securing the nation’s borders. It highlights the necessity for continued collaboration and innovation in addressing the dynamic challenges faced at the Southwest border.
This visit not only reinforced the DoD’s role in supporting border security but also underscored the importance of inter-agency cooperation in ensuring the safety and security of the United States.
Sources: THX News & US Department of Defense.
