These past twelve months, we have confronted many challenges. High numbers of encounters at our southern border, multiple weather events of great severity, criminal activity of unspeakable depravity, ransomware attacks against hospitals and other critical infrastructure, conflicts abroad with significant effects here at home, domestic gatherings of world leaders that require intense security measures, historic numbers of holiday travelers, and so much more. You have responded with extraordinary skill, courage, ingenuity, and tireless, selfless dedication. You are the best in the world.
This holiday season, many of you will be working. Our mission requires service around the clock. Some of you will be recuperating from injuries you sustained in the line of duty. We have colleagues who put their lives on the line every day to ensure the safety of others. It is my hope that this holiday season, each of you will find some time to spend with loved ones, take care of yourselves, reflect on your noble service, and take stock of what you do for – and mean to – our country.
Thank you for everything you do. I wish you a safe, peaceful, and joyous holiday season.
Alejandro N. Mayorkas
Secretary of Homeland Security
With honor and integrity, we will safeguard the American people, our homeland, and our values.