Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

On this 4th anniversary of your EOW, we are remembering you, your family and co-workers. Please be with them during these rough upcoming holiday season. You are a True Hero and will not be forgotten, Thank You...

Craig Figgins
Brother - SGT Dan Figgins St Charles, IL EOW 4/9/05

December 16, 2007

Four years later and so much but so little seems to have changed. The kids are big, really big and asking about you everyday. Jimmy is so much like you it is funny, Seth looks like you, talks like you, acts like you and pretty much is you. That is so bittersweet. I look forward so much to seeing our lives unfold, yet at the same time it is still so sad that you are not here physically for us to see. I know though that you are here just in a different way yet the most important way. So we know that you hear all we say and see all we do and that you are just as aware of us as we are of you, and that we still love, appreciate and mostly miss you. Just remember that each day that passes we are all one day closer to being together again for eternity. Until then my work continues and one day you can tell us that you too are proud of what we became after you were gone but we continued on. So, one day we will see you again, but til then we think of you everyday. We love you.

Love,
Monica, Sean, Shaine, Seth and Jimmy II

Monica Epling
Wife

December 16, 2007

Jimmy, it's been 4 years today. You are going to be honored in muster today. Rest in peace.

SBPA Yuma
U.S. Border Patrol

December 16, 2007

You are remembered today and thank you Sir for your service

vandenberghe
manchester, nh

December 7, 2007

Today was our day. Now, what would have been seven years later, instead of memories filled with you, the kids and I, it is just me and the kids, and me trying to make sure they don't forget you. Although it is difficult, I feel that there is a purpose for everything and at times I feel you here with us just as strong as ever. The kids are growning, Sean and Shaine are huge; and I hear everyday how much they think Seth looks just like me. I only laugh and say you should have seen his Dad. I watch him sleep and think how much he is turning out to be just like you. You should see him and Jimmy race each other and I picture that that is how you and your brothers were. Everyday is an adventure with them. Even though you are gone they talk about you, and say how much they love and miss you. You are still with them and us. You are not a memory to them but very real and they carry you always in their hearts and always on their minds. I love you still, and like I once told you so long ago there is no love stronger than what a parent feels for their own child, and your sons still have the pure, unconditional love of children for you, their father, their Hero. We miss you. I miss you everyday, but especially today.


Love,
Your Wife

Monica
Wife

October 6, 2007

God bless you Jimmy. It has been several years since you left us and your memory still stays with all of us. God bless you and your family.

Sonoita SBPA
US Border Patrol

September 4, 2007

To the family of Jimmy,

Although I did not meet Jimmy, I feel a bond of brotherhood. I remember clearly the day he died and I stopped before I went out to the field to pray for your family. I am so sorry he is not there with you now.

As a new student to the National Border Patrol Chaplaincy Academy I chose Jimmy as my “silent partner”, and I dedicate my studies to his memory and I will try to learn something each day about his life. I am hoping to find those who knew him best. If you would like to help me by sharing his memory, please leave a post or contact the Tucson Sector Chaplains office who can put us in touch.

Sincerely,

Matt Ferguson- a fellow agent

SPA Matt Ferguson
Nogales Border Patrol

September 3, 2007

Gone, but not forgotten...RIP brother.

Gary Renick, Senior Special Agent, ICE
Former USBP, McAllen, TX

May 4, 2007

I regret the amount of time that I've let pass without offering a reflection. I had the privelage of living next door to Jimmy and his family on the Naval Weapons Station in Virginia. We attended highschool together, and I considered him a great friend. Jimmy and his family welcomed me and my family with open arms when my father was transfered to Virginia in 1996. To this day I have yet to meet a more genuine or caring individual than Jimmy. He was full of life, and was always a pleasure to be around. I miss him dearly, but am proud of his accomplishments and service to our country. He will forever be remembered as a hero.

Nick Hale
High School Friend

May 1, 2007

BPA Epling was obviously the exemplification of what it takes and means to be a Border Patrol Agent. I am sorry that I never knew him presonally, but I am proud to say that I have served in the same agency that he had served in. His family should truly be proud of him. He is an example that all should follow by. BPA Epling will be sorely missed, but NEVER FORGOTTEN!

Special Agent, DHS/ICE
Former USBP SPA

April 17, 2007

Jimmy- today is another birthday that you are not here. We will take you roses that we planted and grew for you. I remember how much you loved flowers and having a beautiful yard. There is so much to say but I know you still know and see. I just wanted to say we still love you and think about you and miss you nore than anyone could know. Although time keeps going and years go by and we are now without your presence and those who were once here to offer support your kids and I are still well and happy. You should be proud because they are growing into fine people. For those who do remember and care you are noticed and appreciated. Thank you.

Monica Epling
Wife

March 9, 2007

Agent Epling, I sometimes go down to the river and just sit and stare. I see your brother and sister agents down there, and I see the National Guard there, as well. They (and I) continue doing what we do because of you. We will not give up, we will not give in. You set the standard that we all try to live up to. God Bless you. God Bless your family and kids. We have not forgotten................

AZ Narc
Yuma County SO

March 2, 2007

To the family of Jimmy Epling:
I just heard the news of Jimmy last month. I had the priveledge of knowing Jimmy through high school at Bruton. Jimmy made me smile everyday with his kindness and generosity! He will be greatly missed at the reunion this year! He was a very special person. Always willing to help anyone in need. You are all in my thoughts.

Brittany Lawson
Bruton High School Class of 1997

January 29, 2007

It is our 10 Year High School Reunion, and there will be something missing...I knew Jimmy through High school and our first year at Christopher Newport University. Jimmy and I were linked because one of our parents were filipino! I remember jokes, and funny dances we shared. All I can do is read over comments in the yearbook, and pictures through the years. Jimmy you were a kind hearted person, and a gentle spirit. My prayers and blessings go out to your family.

January 2, 2007

Agent Epling,

On this Christmas morning I just wanted to take a moment to reflect on the sacrifice that you made just over three years ago. I often stop by your memorial in Andrade and think of your courage and to pay my respect to both you and your family. I've often taken my trainees there and tell them of your selfless service to our country and what it means no both the Patrol and myself. I hope that in turn they too will remember you and honor you by being the best and most productive agents that they can be.

God bless you, Monica, your children, your family, and every heart and soul you have touched over the years. Without a doubt your memory will live on in countless hearts and minds forever.

Monica,

God bless you and your children. I have noting but respect for you all and admire your courage and strength. You and your family are always in our thoughts and prayers. You will always have a family in green.

Yuma Sector SPA
U.S. Border Patrol

December 25, 2006

Although I never met BPA Epling or his family, his death has made a true impact on my life. I saw a memorial video of BPA Epling and there were video clips of him in his home. While watching this video, I could feel the love that he had for his wife and children. I have always wanted to tell Monica that you are a beautiful woman inside and out and I truly admire your strength and dedication. Please know that even complete strangers are thinking about you and your family and you are in our prayers.

BPA Epling died a hero and will never be forgotten.

December 21, 2006

On this date three years ago, I heard the words that I was expecting but dreading, "Monica we found Jimmy's body on the bottom of the river." With that I knew that my love was gone. I started to think about things that noone ever wants to think about, and try to figure out what was going to happen to your kids without you around. I knew I would never hear your voice again only in dreams and that unfortunately is not enough. But, sometimes Seth does things or says things or looks just like you did, and that lets me know that you are still here. I know that in order to understand this you must experience this, and I am greatful for your strength and guidance. As the boys grow they are more like you every day. Although you are not here to touch and see, you will be here with me in them, and looking at me through Seth's eyes. I know that you knew from the minute he was born that he was just like you not only in resemblance but in his personality. When I feel sad and alone I remember your smile and he always knows just what to say. You left me the greatest gift that no memory or picture can replace you left me your love in those two boys, I know you are still watching us and I hope that you are proud of us because we are so proud of you. We will always love you, and until I see you again you will always have my heart.
Your Mom asked me to tell you that she still loves you and misses you. I know that you know that.
To those officers that are still in Yuma can you please go visit frequently for us, whether youknew us personally or not it means alot to my boys and I. Thank you.

Jimmy I will always love you, and the boys miss you so much.

Monica Epling
Wife

December 19, 2006

Sean, Shaine, Seth and Jimmy II,
Always remember that your dad is a hero, not only in the way he died, but in the way he lived. He will always be an inspiration to me and every other Border Patrol Agent.

Pete
USBP class 537

December 16, 2006

Fallen but NEVER forgotten.

Joanie
Mother, daughter, sister, and granddau. of LEO's

December 10, 2006

Jimmy,

I was on a walk with my family yesterday, and I heard the sound of "Amazing Grace" on bagpipes coming from a neighbor's house. It made me think of you, and I found this page on the web. I don't know what to say that hasn't been said. We only knew each other for a short time at the academy, but you were one of the coolest and most fun-loving guys I have ever known. I remember thinking that I might be able to have a chance at getting the "top spot" in PT until I heard about your run times. BLew me out of the water, though I could never hold a grudge against the guy who was always ready with a smile, and always laughing.

Like I said, I'm not sure what else to say, just thought I should say something.

Monica,

I've only met you three times, And I'm sure you won't remember me. I want you to know that all of us from class 537 remeber Jimmy, and we remember you. Your strength amazed all of us, especially at the sentencing. If the time ever comes, and I hope it doesn't, I pray for strength like yours. If you ever need help with anything, all you have to do is look one of us up.

God Bless you and your family

Semper Fidelis

Chris Doyen

SPA Chris Doyen
USBP/ classmate

October 22, 2006

God Bless you Jimmy. Through each of us, you live on protecting our borders.

SPA
United States Border Patrol

July 16, 2006

God Bless you Jimmy. Through each of us, you live on protecting our borders.

SPA
United States Border Patrol

July 16, 2006

My condolences to the Epling family. May God bless and watch over you. James died a hero. Rest in peace, Brother.

Trooper
Colorado State Patrol

March 17, 2006

Every time I read the reflections people continue to leave I am grateful for the continued support. One day when my children grow and read these things they will know that his sacrifice wasn't in vain because you all still continue to go strong doing what he would be doing today proudly if he were alive. Wear your uniforms with pride and love because those of us who are left behind look to you to walk the line with pride. We too will never forget. Monica Epling, Sean, Shaine, Seth and Jimmy II.

Monica Epling

March 15, 2006

A geometry class video is the only tangible thing I still have from when Jimmy was one of my best friends in high school. The majority of it contained him chasing a ground hog on the Naval Weapon’s Station golf course. I have missed Jimmy and John since I moved from Newport News in 1996. Then you hear about something so tragic as losing such a wonderful person. The agents here have heard of the hero. It is when people notice his picture in my office that they get to hear about the friend. I remember being at his house when Mr. and Mrs. Epling brought home the Metro. Our lives would never be the same! You are not forgotten, nor will you ever be! My prayers are for your family Big Jim.

Marty Miller
Treasury/FinCEN

December 19, 2005