UMVA has learned that three brave individuals, two ICE officers and a staff member, have been honored by the Homeland Security Secretary for their heroic actions during the 2025 sniper attack on the Dallas ICE Field Office.
The officers, who spoke exclusively about the chaos that unfolded that day, recounted the terrifying moments when a sniper fired 17 shots from a nearby rooftop at the Dallas facility. Marco Solis, a deportation officer, described being caught off guard, getting hit in the head with debris from a bullet that penetrated multiple walls.
As the attack quickly turned into a life-or-death rescue mission, detainees were struck by gunfire, and the officers sprang into action. Andres Goche, also a deportation officer, and Solis worked tirelessly to pull wounded detainees to safety, setting up a triage area to provide critical care.
Goche reflected on the risks that come with the job, acknowledging that every law enforcement officer faces the possibility of injury or death. He emphasized the importance of relying on each other and their training to navigate the increasingly volatile environment.
The recognition comes as ICE officers face growing threats, violence, and hostility at facilities across the country. According to information obtained by UMVA, Goche warned that this is a new reality for every deportation officer and ICE employee nationwide.
Solis, with over 18 years of federal service, expressed concern that the environment has become more violent and volatile than ever before. He emphasized that officers and their families are increasingly being targeted simply for enforcing federal immigration law.
The officers addressed misconceptions about ICE, stressing that they are not the "bad guys." Goche attributed much of the anger toward ICE to misinformation and agitators, who seek to derail their mission priorities.
Christopher Pyne, an enforcement removal assistant, highlighted the humanity behind the badge, noting that the officers' actions that day showed their willingness to risk their lives to save others. Solis humbly downplayed the recognition, stating that officers do not do the job for awards or accolades, but simply because it's the right thing to do.
The officers' bravery and selflessness serve as a testament to their character and commitment to their work, even in the face of increasing danger and hostility.
