Dover AFB celebrates Red Ribbon Week Published Oct. 20, 2010 By Kathy Penniston-Smith 436th Medical Operations Squadron DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- The Drug Demand Reduction Program at Dover Air Force Base, Del., invites the community to take a visible stand against drugs by celebrating Red Ribbon Week from Saturday through Oct. 31. Red Ribbon Week's goal is to raise awareness of drug use and the problems related to drugs that a community faces and encourage parents, educators, business owners and other community organizations to promote drug-free lifestyles. Throughout Red Ribbon Week the Drug Demand Reduction team will be visiting various locations giving freebies and literature to educate the public regarding drug use in the military and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. "Red Ribbon Week encourages our entire community to adopt healthy, drug-free lifestyles," said Mike Waring, 436th Medical Operations Squadron drug testing manager. "The campaign brings together parents, schools, and businesses as we look for innovative ways to keep kids and communities drug free." Coming up on its 25th anniversary, the red ribbon symbolizes a continuing commitment to reducing the demand for illicit drugs in communities. Congress established Red Ribbon Week in 1988 after an event in 1985, when Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent Enrique S. "Kiki" Camarena was killed by drug traffickers. Shortly after Camarena's death, citizens from his hometown of Calexico, California, began wearing red ribbons to remember him and commemorate his sacrifice. "Red Ribbon Week gives us the opportunity to be vocal and visible in our efforts to achieve a drug-free community," said Mr. Waring. "Research shows children are less likely to use alcohol and other drugs when parents and other role models are clear and consistent in their opposition to substance use and abuse." For more information about Red Ribbon Week visit www.getsmartaboutdrugs.com or contact Mr. Waring or Kathy Penniston-Smith at 677-2752.