Hill recognizes Red Ribbon Week

  • Published
  • By Sue Smith
The annual National Red Ribbon Week is 20-28 Oct 2007. It is one of the oldest and largest drug prevention campaigns in the country. Red Ribbon week serves as a vehicle for communities and individuals to take a stand for the hopes and dreams of children through a commitment to drug prevention and education and a personal commitment to live drug free with the ultimate goal of a drug free country.

The red ribbon symbol comes from the tortured death of a U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration officer, Enrique "Kiki" Camarena. He was sent undercover to Mexico to investigate a major drug cartel believed to include officers of the Mexican army, police and government officials. On 7 Feb 05, the 37-year old left his office to meet his wife for lunch. Five men appeared at the agent's side and shoved him into a car. One month later, Mr. Camarena's body was found in a shallow grave; he had been tortured to death.

Within weeks of his death, Camarena's Congressman, Duncan Hunter, and high school friend Henry Lozano, launched Camarena Clubs in Imperial Valley, Calif. 

Hundreds of club members pledged to lead drug-free lives to honor the sacrifices made by Camarena and others on behalf of all Americans. These coalitions began to wear red badges of satin, red ribbons, as a symbol Camarena's memory. The Red Ribbon Week campaign emerged from the efforts of these clubs and coalitions.

Today, Red Ribbon Week is nationally recognized and celebrated, helping to preserve Special Agent Camarena's memory and further the cause for which he gave his life. The Red Ribbon Campaign also became a symbol of support for the DEA's efforts to reduce the demand for drugs through prevention and education programs. By wearing a red ribbon during the last week in October, Americans demonstrate their ardent opposition to drugs. They pay homage not only to Special Agent Camarena, but to all men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in support of our nation's struggle against drug trafficking and abuse.

Hill AFB is slated to hold an informational booth at the base clinic. A drug prevention talk will be held at the Youth Center on Oct. 23-24.  There will also be a drug class held at the base theater on Oct. 23 at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. For more information about National Red Ribbon Week contact Sue Smith at 775-5516.