A humanitarian gesture

The Monitor, McAllen, Texas: Some callously might say that providing emergency medical treatment on site for those crossing into our borders illegally is a waste of taxpayer dollars and resources. But we don’t see it that way. It’s a humanitarian cause, and it’s the right thing to do.

The Associated Press recently reported that faced with increased numbers of immigrants crossing into South Texas, the Border Patrol now has employed 100 emergency medical technicians in its nine stations in the Rio Grande sector. The EMTs are working three shifts a day, accompanying agents in helicopters via air support and on the ground. And they are saving lives.

The Rio Grande Valley has become the busiest sector on the Southwest border. And, as we all know, it is full of dangerous terrain. It’s fraught with mesquite, soft, sinking sand pits, and baking 100-degree-plus afternoons.

Having medical assistance ready for those suffering in these types of conditions will likely enable those immigrants to return to their homes healthy.

We aren’t advocating for what they are doing. But we all know many who have done it. We’re saying that no one should die in our backyards while trying to cross here seeking a better life.

Last year, agents made more than 700 rescues in this sector, but also found more than 150 bodies.