Red Ribbon Week Oct. 23 - 31

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Estela Clunie
  • 482nd Medical Squadron
HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. --  Red Ribbon Week is a national observance that focuses attention on the destructive effects that drugs have on our nation. Now in its 20th year of national observance - it was launched in 1988 by the National Family Partnership as a grassroots campaign to encourage kids and communities to stay drug free and to uphold a standard for Americans everywhere. 

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 itself now symbolizes 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 advertise the Department of Defense's anti-drug awareness and educational activities in neighborhoods and schools throughout the nation. 

This years theme is: "Ask Me, See Me, Be Me - Heroes Remain Drug Free". The campaign will recognize and encourage Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine and National Guard programs across the country that have made an impact on their communities to combat drug, alcohol and tobacco use. 

To highlight this year's Red Ribbon celebration, the Homestead ARB Demand Reduction Program (DRP) Office has partnered with Keys Gate Charter School to participate in the week's activities.  The DRP office donated drug awareness and prevention information to include: red ribbons, stress balls & cones, cups, and calculators.

To raise public awareness of Homestead ARB's commitment to a drug-free community, all base organizations are encouraged to display red ribbons on their civilian attire during Oct. 23 - 31. 

In addition, the DRP office will be distributing drug awareness and prevention information and promotional items on Oct. 29, building 347, from 9 a.m. - noon.  

For information on Homestead ARB's Red Ribbon Week, contact Master Sgt. Clunie at (305) 224-7309.