Border troops aircraft training in Mission

MISSION, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The U.S. Department of Defense on Tuesday put on an exercise in Mission along with state and other federal agencies.

Two CH-47 Chinook helicopters made their way to Anzalduas Park for the Texas Tactical Force.

The arrival of the helicopters is also a part of the 400 troops that arrived in the Rio Grande Valley on Monday.

According to the U.S. Border Patrol the soldiers are to reinforce security at the border in addition to help enforce Title 8.

"We're excited to have the extra boots in the ground. They will serve in security roles," said Christina Smallwood, U.S. Customs Border Protection Public Affairs spokesperson.

Humvees with soldiers were also present at Anzalduas Park along with a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter. Border Patrol said it is no surprise if aircraft training becomes more common in the Rio Grande Valley.

"It's always a possibility and we always welcome that. Anything that has to do with manpower, infrastructure, and technology always helps us accomplish our border security mission," said Smallwood.

The troops that arrived on Monday will be assigned to stations throughout the Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol sector.