To SOP or Not to SOP

A message from PBA Board Chairman Bob Wright:

From the beginning of the Minuteman Project to date I have objected to calling the SOPs SOPs.  They are not a Standard Operating Procedures, but rather a code of conduct. It is my belief that we should name these guidelines just that: PBA Minuteman's Code of Conduct.  I realize that SOP is burned into the brains of Minutemen everywhere and this change may be disconcerting to a few. But don’t believe that is insurmountable.

PBA Minuteman’s Code of Conduct

• I am an American Minuteman, dedicated to the safety, security and sovereignty of my nation. It is a solemn duty I will fulfill with the sober dedication, reasoned application and humble enthusiasm that duty demands.
• I recognize that I am held to a higher standard of behavior, and will strictly follow all PBA guidelines, rules and procedures. I will strictly observe all applicable local, state and federal laws in the performance of my duty as a Minuteman.
• I will obey all lawful direction, orders and guidelines of those leaders appointed above me by PBA
• I recognize my duties and activities as a PBA Minuteman cannot stop illegal activities on our border. I will perform my duties in a fashion that will allow those duties to educate the American public about the problem and bring about a political change that will insure our elected officials are held accountable for the safety, security, and sovereignty of our nation.
• I will never allow myself to be taunted or manipulated into inappropriate behavior by anyone. I will not respond to verbal attacks from any quarter during the performance of my duties.  I will always treat each individual with dignity and respect. This includes the leadership of PBA, All Minutemen, law enforcement, illegal aliens, the media and those who are in opposition to our mission
• I will assist law enforcement by observing suspected illegal activity, reporting that suspected illegal activity to the proper authorities, and then directing the responding agency to that suspected illegal activity.  I stand ever ready to assist legitimate law enforcement in any way I can.
• I will never attempt to detain, verbally communicate or gesture in a manner that would indicate I am interfering with an illegal alien's travel or leave the impression they are being detained.
• I stand prepared and committed to providing humanitarian aid to any illegal alien in need of such relief during the performance of my duties.
• I accept it is my responsibility to monitor not only my own behavior and deportment, but also the behavior and deportment of those on post with me, all PBA Minutemen and the PBA organization as a whole.
• I will always conduct myself in a manner that will bring credit to myself, Minutemen everywhere and to Patriots Border Alliance.