Texas Bolsters Border Security With New Military Base
On Friday, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) announced the construction of a military base camp near Eagle Pass to strengthen the state’s border security efforts. Amid what he describes as “President Joe Biden’s border crisis,” the initiative marks a significant step in Texas’ ongoing campaign to safeguard its boundaries.
The forthcoming base will encompass more than 80 acres and accommodate up to 1,800 Texas National Guard members. Future expansion will provide space for 500 additional troops and supply staff. The base will facilitate strategic consolidation aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and effectiveness of personnel along the Texas–Mexico border.
Texas Governor Announces Plan to Build Military Base Camp Near Eagle Passhttps://t.co/OkPzy62Vxu
— Larry Elder (@larryelder) February 17, 2024
Abbott emphasized the need for the facility, stating, “This will increase the ability for a larger number of Texas Military Department soldiers in Eagle Pass to operate more effectively and efficiently.” The establishment, known as the “Forward Operating Base,” signifies Texas’ commitment to maintaining border integrity and addressing the surge in illegal crossings.
The base camp promises to offer more than just military support; it will provide soldiers with improved living conditions, including a 700-seat dining facility, a recreation center, laundry services, Wi-Fi access, individual rooms, chaplaincy programs, and comprehensive medical and psychological health facilities. Such amenities underscore Texas’ dedication to its National Guard members’ well-being and operational readiness.
Texas is building a new 80 acre base camp for thousands of Texas National Guard on the border near Eagle Pass.
This will improve our ability to swiftly respond to illegal crossings and to build more border barriers that deny illegal entry.https://t.co/Z8QSopVZ71 pic.twitter.com/zd1QkRkI2P
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) February 17, 2024
This military enhancement comes as Texas continues to confront what many see as a lax federal approach to border security under the Biden administration. The state has already implemented measures such as erecting razor-wire fencing and strategically deploying the National Guard and state police officers. These actions align with Operation Lone Star, a multibillion-dollar border enforcement initiative launched by Abbott’s administration.
Furthermore, Texas has proactively extended its physical barriers along the border. The state has installed over 100 miles of fencing, a testament to its determination to curb illegal immigration. Abbott’s resolve is evident as he challenges federal policies, stating, “We can relinquish control of it tomorrow if Joe Biden were to step up and do exactly what we’re doing here and stop people from crossing the border illegally.”
The establishment of this base camp also reflects a broader trend of Republican governors supporting Texas’ border enforcement strategies. Governors from states like Florida and Georgia have contributed their own National Guard troops, illustrating a collective dissatisfaction with the current federal border policies.
Despite facing legal challenges from the Biden administration, Texas remains steadfast in its efforts to enforce immigration laws and secure its borders. The new military base in Eagle Pass is a clear message to both migrants and the federal government — Texas is serious about its security and will continue to take independent action to protect its citizens from the consequences of Joe Biden’s open borders policies.