U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) commemorated the 236th anniversary of the U.S. Customs Service on Thursday, July 31, 2025, marking over two centuries of safeguarding U.S. borders and trade. The celebration also highlighted a historic leadership milestone—Rodney S. Scott was sworn in as CBP Commissioner, becoming the first U.S. Border Patrol agent to hold the agency’s top position.
Oath administered by DHS Secretary Kristi Noem
CBP’s newest Commissioner officially took the oath of office on July 23 during the CBP Commissioner’s Awards Ceremony at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C. The oath was administered by Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who underscored the significance of Scott’s leadership during a time of heightened security concerns.
“He’s taking this oath at probably the most important time in our history,” said Noem. “A time when our threats are greater than they’ve ever been and they come from many different directions and agendas… Daily border encounters have dropped by nearly 93%, and in May and June, Border Patrol released zero illegal aliens into our country, which is the first time that has happened.”
A Veteran Returns to Lead the Agency
Scott, confirmed by the U.S. Senate on June 18, brings over 30 years of service to his new role, having started his career in 1992 at the Imperial Beach Station. He has previously served as Chief Patrol Agent in two Border Patrol sectors, Chief of the U.S. Border Patrol, and held multiple key posts at CBP Headquarters in areas such as anti-terrorism and incident management.
“The number one reason I agreed to come back as the commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection is so that I could fight for you,” said Scott. “I am committed to being your advocate. I’m going to fight on behalf of you and on behalf of the mission.”
Honoring the Past, Leading the Future
Founded in 1789 to collect duties on imported goods, the U.S. Customs Service is the oldest federal law enforcement agency in the United States. It played a foundational role in American sovereignty and economic growth. In 2003, it became part of CBP under the newly formed Department of Homeland Security.
Today, CBP carries out its mission through the U.S. Border Patrol, Air and Marine Operations, and the Office of Field Operations—working to secure the homeland while facilitating lawful trade and travel.
“In the early days of CBP,” Scott recalled, “we used to always say one team, one fight… I can’t tell you how extremely proud and humbled I am that I have been asked to come back and stand side by side with each one of you… and really, truly make America safe once again.”
