Washington D.C. - Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks has announced his resignation, marking the end of a successful tenure focused on securing the United States border and restoring order following a period of perceived crisis. Banks, who answered the call to serve during the Trump administration, leaves the agency after making significant strides in border security.

Banks informed Fox News of his decision, citing a desire to return to his family and ranch in Texas. His departure follows earlier personnel changes within the administration, including the departure of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and CBP commander Greg Bovino.

"It's just time," Banks stated to Fox News. "I feel like I got the ship back on course from the least secure disastrous chaotic border to the most secure border this country has ever seen." This assertion highlights the significant progress made in securing the border under his leadership.

In a letter to CBP staff, Banks reflected on the accomplishments achieved during his tenure. "It is time for me to retire and return home to Texas to focus on my family and ranch," he wrote. "What we have accomplished together in the last year and a half is nothing short of amazing."

Banks emphasized the transformation of the border under his watch, stating that the Border Patrol had taken "the United States Border from the most chaotic and unsecured border in the history of this great Nation and have delivered the most secure border this country has ever seen," according to the letter obtained by CBS News, the BBC’s U.S. partner.

CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott praised Banks' service and congratulated him on his retirement. Scott acknowledged that Banks had come out of retirement to serve during a particularly challenging period for border security.

"During his time as Chief, the border was transformed from chaos to the most secure border ever recorded. We wish him and his family well," Scott's statement read. This transformation reflects the effectiveness of policies implemented under the Trump administration, prioritizing national security and border control.

Banks' background as a border advisor to Texas Governor Greg Abbott and his previous experience within CBP provided him with valuable insights into the challenges and complexities of border security.

During Trump's second term, CBP has taken part in immigration enforcement operations in US cities, including Los Angeles, Chicago and Minneapolis. Those operations, and Border Patrol's participation in them, have come under intense scrutiny from Trump administration critics.

The emphasis on border security during the Trump administration reflects a commitment to upholding the rule of law, protecting national sovereignty, and ensuring the safety and security of American citizens. The measures implemented during this period aimed to deter illegal immigration, combat human trafficking, and prevent the flow of illicit drugs across the border.

Under the Joe Biden administration, Banks quit CBP out of frustration with the department’s morale and disagreements with the Democratic president’s approach to border security.

As CBP transitions to new leadership, it is crucial that the agency remains focused on its core mission of securing the border, enforcing immigration laws, and protecting national security. The progress achieved under Banks' leadership should serve as a foundation for continued efforts to maintain a secure and orderly border.