Base focuses on drug awareness, prevention during Red Ribbon Week Oct. 23 – 31

Red Ribbon Week, Oct. 23 - 31, is a national observance that focuses attention on the destructive effects drugs have on our nation. It was launched in 1988 by the National Family Partnership as a grassroots campaign to encourage kids and communities to stay drug free. To highlight this year's Red Ribbon celebration, the Homestead Drug Demand Reduction Program staff will be distributing drug awareness and prevention information and promotional items at the 482nd Medical Squadron, room 107, and at the Red Ribbon booth during the Halloween Hauntfest at the base fitness center next to the Shoppette Express Oct. 31. All Homestead members are encouraged to participate in the Red Ribbon Week events. (courtesy graphic)

Base focuses on drug awareness, prevention during Red Ribbon Week Oct. 23 - 31

Published Oct. 21, 2013
By Estela Clunie
482nd Fighter Wing Drug Demand Reduction Program Manager

HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. -- Red Ribbon Week, Oct. 23 - 31, is a national observance that focuses attention on the destructive effects drugs have on our nation. It was launched in 1988 by the National Family Partnership as a grassroots campaign to encourage kids and communities to stay drug free.

To highlight this year's Red Ribbon celebration, the Homestead Drug Demand Reduction Program staff will be distributing drug awareness and prevention information and promotional items at the 482nd Medical Squadron, room 107, and at the Red Ribbon booth during the Halloween Hauntfest at the base fitness center next to the Shoppette Express Oct. 31. All Homestead members are encouraged to participate in the Red Ribbon Week events.

The movement was inaugurated after the tragic death of Drug Enforcement Administration agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena, who was kidnapped, tortured and killed by Mexican drug traffickers after successfully disrupting a major narcotics operation.

Shortly after, citizens from his hometown began wearing red ribbons to remember him and honor his sacrifice. The Red Ribbon campaign is now a continued commitment to reducing the demand for illegal drugs within our communities.

Since 1990, the Secretary of Defense has recognized Red Ribbon Week as a special time to highlight the Department of Defense's anti-drug awareness and educational activities in neighborhoods and schools throughout the nation.

For more information, call Ms. Clunie at (786) 415-6919.