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Many servicemembers might remember participating in the DARE program, or Drug Abuse Resistance Education, targeted towards school-aged children but may not have participated in a drug prevention cause since.
Red Ribbon Week offers the perfect opportunity to do just that — by taking a visible stand against substance abuse Oct. 23 to 30.
The Red Ribbon Campaign began after Drug Enforcement Administration Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena was kidnapped and murdered in 1985 when his efforts led to a tip that resulted in the discovery of a multimillion dollar narcotics manufacturing operation in Mexico. In his home town of Calexico, Calif., an enormous amount of public support arose in which citizens wore red ribbons and became the voice of prevention and drug reduction in America.
“Red Ribbon Week is the oldest and largest drug prevention campaign in the country,” said Crystal Malloy, U.S. Army Garrison Kaiserslautern alcohol substance abuse prevention coordinator. “The Kaiserslautern Military Community has been celebrating Red Ribbon Week at least since 1990, if not earlier. More importantly, Red Ribbon Week commemorates the ultimate sacrifice made by DEA Special Agent Camarena.” So by wearing a red ribbon during the last week in October, KMC members are not only paying tribute to Agent Camarena, but also helping to raise awareness about the negative impacts of substance abuse.
“It takes more than just saying ‘No’ to drugs,” said Alex Tremble, Ramstein Drug Demand Reduction program manager. “As a community we must come out in force to take back our community from those who abuse drugs.”
As part of the week, KMC members have the opportunity to show their support at 8:30 a.m. Oct. 30 at Rhine Ordinance Barracks during the Red Ribbon 5K run. The run is open to all ages, individuals or teams and is pet friendly while participants are encouraged to wear red. “This is more than a run. It brings people together for awareness and education on drug abuse,” Mr. Tremble said. “Remember the old saying ‘It takes a village to raise a child?,’ as a community we need to fight for every child that may fall prey to anyone who would abuse them. We have to make a stand and say enough is enough; and take back our communities.”
Though there is a multitude of drug prevention outlets in the area, this particular event allows family and friends to take a stand together for a drug free America.
“Red Ribbon Week serves as a vehicle for communities and individuals to take a stand for the hopes and dreams of our children through a commitment to drug prevention, education and a personal commitment to live drug free lives,” Ms. Malloy said.
“It is a time for families to get out and experience drug free fun and renew their commitment to a healthy lifestyle.” While the focus of the week is geared towards drug prevention, the teams also have healthy living in mind.
“I think the event will remind families that a part of developing a healthy lifestyle involves playing together,” Ms. Malloy said. “This is an excellent opportunity to play together. It can also serve as a way for families to have open-ended discussions with their family members, especially 5th grade to middle school about maintaining a drug free, alcohol responsible lifestyle.”
Red Ribbon Week currently brings together millions of people to raise awareness on substance abuse and is the largest, most visible prevention awareness campaign observed annually in the United States.Those interested in volunteering for the event can contact Ms. Malloy at 0631-411-7901 for a list of volunteer opportunities.
Those who want to participate in the Red Ribbon Week 5K run can contact the Rhine Ordnance Barracks Fitness Center at 0631-3406-2088 or register at the following locations and times.
Oct. 23 from 11:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Ramstein KMCC.
Oct. 25 from 11a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Meisau Army Depot Dinning Facility.
Oct. 26 from 11 a.m. to 1.p.m. at the Rhine Ordnance Barracks Dinning Facility.
Oct. 28 from 6:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. at the Rhine Ordnance Barracks Java Café and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Kleber Kaserne Dinning Facility.
Oct. 29 from 6:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. at the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center Java Café and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the LRMC Dining Facility .
