TRI-COUNTY — Matthew Hudak, Border Patrol chief for the Big Bend Sector, is saying goodbye to the region. In a news release on Tuesday, the agency said that Hudak is moving to Laredo, where he will also serve as sector chief.
Hudak has served in Border Patrol since 1997. He started his career at the Harlingen Station in what is now the Rio Grande Valley Sector. But his work has taken him all over the country, with stints in Arizona, Washington D.C. and across Texas.
Last March, Hudak became the chief for the Big Bend Sector. In the time since, Border Patrol said in a statement, he “overcame many challenges,” from “the humanitarian crisis” at the U.S.-Mexico border to the still-growing COVID-19 pandemic.
In a statement, Hudak thanked residents of the region — including agents for “the work they do to keep our communities and country safe.”
“It has been an honor to serve alongside our agents and staff,” he added. “Every day they have impressed me with their dedication and vigilance.”
A spokesperson for Customs and Border Protection said the agency will make an announcement once the agency finalizes a replacement. Later on Tuesday, CBP said in a statement that Hudak will start his new job on July 5.