A border patrol agent stands on a metal ladder propped against a gray brick wall and extends an arm upward to grasp the edge of the Mexican flag. The flag flies from a tall pole planted behind the wall while the agent wears a dark uniform with visible patches.

The composition places the agent in the left half of the frame with the wall occupying the right and lower sections. The flag displays its red white and green panels along with the central emblem as it billows outward.

The date of March 27 2006 places the image in a period of active discussion about physical barriers along the southern border and enforcement practices by federal agents.