By Susan Bromley
Staff Writer
Eric Broecker, 27, hasn’t had a Spanish class since the seventh grade. Now, he has to learn the language in 40 days.
The 40-day Spanish program is all part of the training the 1999 Brandon High School graduate is receiving to be a U.S. Border Patrol agent.
Broecker was attending law enforcement classes at St. Clair Community College when the opportunity to apply for the U.S. Border Patrol presented itself.
‘When I heard about protecting the border from terrorists and drug smugglers, I knew it was something I wanted to get involved in,? he said.
Broecker has been in Artesia, New Mexico since June 5, participating in classes regarding driving, firearms, different types of law, immigration, naturalization, first aid and more. He has learned about statutes, titles, and his authority and has had water training and physical training.
Broecker graduated from the U.S. Border Patrol Basic Academy Aug. 21. After completing the Spanish program, he will be stationed in south Texas, where he will walk the border and do roving patrol which can include all terrain vehicles or marine patrol on the Rio Grande.
‘There is a pretty tall fence, about 12 feet, separating the border, except for the Rio Grande River,? said Broecker, who hopes to eventually return to Michigan to do border patrol here.
‘I will be on a 10-hour shift, rotating some days, some nights. I am happy and ready to go out in the field.?
Broecker is married to Heidi and has two children, Erica and Carter.
He is the son of Debbie Broecker of Ortonville and Jim Broecker of Goodrich and the brother of Jamie of Imlay City.