Jocko Podcast
408: "Borderline". Lessons from The "Border". Chasing and Catching Dreams. With Vincent "Rocco" Vargas
Episode guests
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Deployment experiences provide personal growth and reinforce faith in God.
- Death of a friend highlights the dangers and risks involved in military training.
- A gesture of motivation from a staff sergeant before ranger school reinforces determination to succeed.
- Understanding the culture of the border patrol is crucial for comprehending immigration and border security.
- Border patrol agents rely on tracking and analyzing footprints to apprehend individuals crossing the border illegally.
- Bridging the gap between different units in the border patrol was achieved through becoming a trusted tactical medic.
Deep dives
Deployment in Afghanistan
During the deployment, there were intense moments and close calls, but it was a valuable experience that allowed personal growth and a deepened relationship with God.
Loss of a Close Friend
The death of Devin Bacuero during a live fire exercise was a devastating moment, as he had overcome obstacles to join ranger battalion and was a close friend. His loss highlighted the realities of training and the risks involved.
Preparing for Ranger School
Leading up to ranger school, there was a competitive football game where Staff Sergeant Baraza gave Vargas his own ranger tab as a motivation to come back with one of his own. This gesture was meaningful and reinforced the determination to succeed.
The Importance of Understanding Border Patrol Culture
Border Patrol culture is shaped by the unique challenges and experiences encountered on the border. Agents face intense terrain, corruption, and complex immigration issues. One key aspect of the culture is the value placed on preparedness, as demonstrated by the saying 'one is none, and two is one.' This reflects the need for redundancy and the importance of always having a backup plan. The border patrol also grapples with conflicting emotions, as agents have empathy for the individuals they apprehend while also recognizing the need to enforce immigration laws. The culture is influenced by the realities of the job, such as tracking and cutting sign, which involves following footprints and detecting signs of illegal border crossings. Understanding this culture is essential for grasping the nuances of the border patrol's work and its significance in immigration and border security.
Navigating the Complexity of Immigration Policies and Practices
To have a meaningful discussion on immigration, it is crucial to have a grasp of the intricacies of immigration policies and practices. This includes understanding the difference between legal and illegal immigration, as well as the various pathways to citizenship. It is important to consider the challenges faced by border patrol agents, who must balance their duty to enforce immigration laws with empathy for individuals seeking a better life. Moreover, the culture surrounding immigration enforcement is influenced by factors like corruption and the unique terrain of the border. To effectively address the issue of immigration, it is necessary to move beyond simplistic arguments of closing or opening the borders and instead foster informed discussions that consider the complexities of the topic.
Tracking and Cutting Sign: The Core Duties of a Border Patrol Agent
A significant part of a border patrol agent's job involves tracking and cutting sign. Agents are trained to read footprints, detect signs of illegal border crossings, and apprehend individuals entering the country unlawfully. Cutting sign refers to the process of observing and interpreting footprints and other indicators left by individuals crossing the border. This skill is crucial for identifying and apprehending those attempting to enter the country illegally. Border patrol agents rely on their ability to track and analyze sign as they navigate the challenging terrain of the border, maintaining a constant vigilance to ensure the security of the nation's borders.
Importance of Medics in Border Patrol
Being a medic in the border patrol was important for bridging the gap between bortac and borsar, two units that didn't always appreciate each other. The goal was to rectify the situation and have medics involved in potentially dangerous missions. The experience of being an army ranger and having combat knowledge and tactics could be valuable in becoming a trusted tactical medic. The selection process for borsar was rigorous and involved being tested physically and mentally.
The Death of Brian Terry and its Impact
Brian Terry was the first border patrol agent to die in the line of duty. His death during Operation Huckleberry highlighted the dangers faced by border patrol agents. Rip crews, groups that steal drugs and contraband, were a growing concern. The operation aimed to disrupt these crews, but due to reduced manpower, it resulted in a tragic incident where Brian Terry was fatally shot. His death influenced the author's decision to apply for bortstar and work towards bridging the gap between bortac and borsar.
Challenges in Boarstar Selection
Boarstar selection was grueling, with physically and mentally demanding tests and harsh treatment from cadre members. Lack of sleep, intense physical exertion, and constant stress pushed candidates to their limits. Despite moments of doubt and contemplation of quitting, the author persevered, realizing the importance of resilience and determination in such a challenging selection process.
Bridging the Gap: A Wellness Retreat for Veterans
A wellness retreat called 'Light the Fuse' aims to introduce veterans to different modalities of healing and wellness. Through various activities such as yoga, breathing exercises, and plant medicine, veterans are given the opportunity to explore alternative approaches to healing and finding balance. The retreat also emphasizes the importance of community and providing support for one another.
Transitioning from Border Patrol to Hollywood
After leaving the Border Patrol, the podcast host shares his experience transitioning into the world of Hollywood. He discusses his involvement in acting and writing projects, including being part of a series and producing a movie. He also highlights the challenges and differences he encountered in the acting industry compared to his previous experiences as a Border Patrol agent.
Bettering the Veteran Community
The podcast host discusses a company called 'Better' that he co-founded with the aim of promoting a positive outlook within the veteran community. The company focuses on motivating and inspiring veterans to do more and be more. Additionally, the podcast host shares his involvement in creating a wellness retreat for veterans, providing opportunities for healing and personal growth through various modalities, such as yoga, breathwork, and plant medicine.
Exploring a Career in Border Patrol
This podcast episode features Vincent Rocco Vargas discussing his book 'Borderline: Defending the Homefront' and his experiences in the Border Patrol. Vargas emphasizes the importance of understanding the Border Patrol career field and immigration intelligence. He believes his book will be valuable for those transitioning out of the military and considering a career in the Border Patrol, while also shedding light on the work done by Border Patrol agents and the need for recruitment and retention in the field.
Embracing Change and Pursuing Dreams
In this podcast episode, Vincent Rocco Vargas shares his journey and highlights the importance of embracing change and pursuing one's dreams. He discusses his passion for writing, producing music, and his experience working with a producer to bring his songs to life. Vargas emphasizes that even though he may not have all the technical skills, he is driven by the emotional connection and meaning behind his creative work. He encourages listeners to follow their passions and be open to exploring new opportunities and creative collaborations.
Vincent "Rocco" Vargas was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles, California. Vargas enlisted in the United States Army (2003–2015) and went on to serve 3 combat deployments with the 2nd Ranger Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. Vargas also served as an infantry Drill Sergeant. He then left active duty and entered the reserves with the rank of Sergeant First Class. After leaving active duty, Vargas worked in special operations as a medic with the Arizona Department of Corrections and then the U.S. Border Patrol but left in 2013 to pursue his career as an entertainer.
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