TSA-CBP joint assignment strengthens aviation security, leaves humanitarian mark

Wednesday, December 11, 2024

TSA and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) came together in the first of its kind, interagency collaborative effort by conducting a joint evaluation at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala.

Located in Central America, Guatemala is bordered by the North Pacific Ocean between El Salvador and Mexico and the Gulf of Honduras between Honduras and Belize.

"TSA views the airport as another 'border' leading into the United States," said Miami Regional Operations Center Transportation Security Specialist Elizabeth Cruz.

"Capabilities Gap Analysis-Plus (CGAP+) is an agile, repeatable and scalable process designed to identify capability gaps and reveal recommended solutions to address identified problems," said CBP Operational Requirements Management Division Chief Andrea Scott. "The U.S. Border Patrol has been utilizing CGAP for over a decade and has had tremendous success in leveraging this as part of a larger requirements process."

La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala

CBP Regional Attaché Victor Acosta spearheaded the Guatemala event, and TSA Representative Olimpia Lynch led the TSA contingent.

"A priority for TSA is to build and develop partnerships with international security partners, as well as other U.S. governmental agencies, to advance global transportation security," explained Lynch. "This recent opportunity in Guatemala was a successful exhibition of how numerous security partners can come together to advance that goal."

TSA assisted CBP from the aviation security standpoint and provided expertise related to identifying vulnerabilities in the airport environment. Their findings are summarized in a report presented to the government of Guatemala, a country who views the Department of Homeland Security as a valued partner in transportation and border security.

While the fact-finding mission was based on observation, the group chose a more hands-on approach for their off day. They could have visited tourist attractions or dined on local cuisine, but instead they acted on a recommendation from the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala and volunteered at Fatima House, a privately owned, local orphanage which relies solely on donations from the community.

"Everyone contributed, woke up early and was present in the moment," said Cruz. "The team provided breakfast to the staff, savory snacks to the children, donated essentials such as formula, diapers, toothpaste, and most importantly, gave our time and warmth to these beautiful children.

On their day off, the CGAP group poses in front of Fatima House. (TSA photo)

"The children were obsessed with the teams' smart watches, sunglasses and hats. They were eager to be picked up and wholeheartedly enjoyed the tender attention. A simple act of kindness turned an ordinary day into an unforgettable experience, leaving lasting smiles on the faces of those who needed it most."

"Volunteering at the Fatima House was important to our team because it allowed us to make a meaningful impact while fostering a deeper connection with the community and country," said Scott. "We gained a better understanding of service and the importance of giving back to those in need. The strongest memory of that day was engaging in daily activities and playing with the children. That simple act reminded us of the importance of being present and offering love and support to those who need it most. It was a powerful, emotional moment in time that stayed with us long after the day ended."

By Karen Robicheaux, TSA Strategic Communications & Public Affairs.