Press Releases 08
Tragic Loss of International Boundary and Water Commissioners
Statement by Ambassador Antonio O. Garza
Mexico City, September 17, 2008 - “It was with a profound
sense of sadness that I received word this afternoon that
the wreckage of a plane carrying International Boundary and
Water Commissioner for the U.S. Carlos Marin and Mexican Commissioner
Arturo Herrera, had been found without survivors.
“So many of us who have known Carlos and Arturo through
the years were horrified to hear their plane had gone missing,
and had hoped against hope that they would be found safe and
sound. I extend my deepest condolences and send heartfelt
prayers to their families and friends, and to those of the
pilot, Matthew Peter Juneau, and Jake Brisbin, Executive Director
of the Rio Grande Council of Governments, who was also on
board.
“Arturo and Carlos gave their lives while trying to help
others in need. They were on a mission over the flood-stricken
U.S.-Mexico border when their plane crashed. Throughout their
years of service they accomplished much to help both Mexican
and American citizens living along the border. Arturo and
Carlos contributed mightily to the goodwill that binds our
two countries; they will be sorely missed as friends and as
professional colleagues.
“I would also ask that we all thank those who braved flood
waters and rugged terrain over the past days, searching for
the downed aircraft. The Mexican Army, Ciudad Juarez Civil
Aviation Authority, Texas Department of Public Safety, Customs
and Border Protection, and all the individual citizens on
both sides of the border who took part in the search, at no
small risk to themselves, have my gratitude. Their efforts
reflect the cooperation and collaboration that so distinguished
the lives of Arturo Herrera and Carlos Marin.”
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