WASHINGTON D.C.  – Several Border Patrol Honor Guard members participating at the inauguration parade said they have ties with the Rio Grande Valley.

The group will be leading the way on Friday along with the Rio Grande Valley Horse Patrol.

The leader of the group, Richard Fortunato, said he spent five years in the Valley.

“It was completely different back them. No border at all, it was just the river and fencing and it’s just crazy how it’s grown,” he said.

Brasilio Rosalez was also stationed in the Valley years ago.

“I’m very proud of what we do… All we do is for the family, for the kids,” he said.

The group will have their musical best on display on a world stage seen by millions in Pennsylvania Avenue to welcome the new commander-in-chief.

“It’s the second time I’ve done this. We did this in 2009,” Fortunate said. “To be able to come back and do this for a new president, not many people can say they get to do this twice.”