National Red Ribbon Week

  • Published
  • By Jeffery Hikes
  • Drug Demand Reduction Program manager
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  The National Red Ribbon Week Campaign will run from Oct. 21-25. "A Healthy Me Is Drug Free!" is the campaign's national theme this year and offers Airmen the unique opportunity to reinforce the "Say No to Drugs" message.

The mission of Red Ribbon Week is to present a unified and visible commitment toward the creation of a Drug Free America. It is a voluntary drug awareness, prevention and education campaign. Many organizations offer a variety of programs to highlight the nation's commitment to fighting drug abuse through prevention and treatment efforts.

"Red Ribbon Week is an annual nationwide celebration which has become a major force for raising public awareness and mobilizing communities to combat alcohol, drug, and tobacco use," said Jessica L. Wright, Acting Under Secretary of Defense. "The Department of Defense has officially participated in this event since 1990 with the aim to reduce drug abuse among its members and their families."

We are requesting Team Barksdale show their support by joining the nation and DOD by participating in the many activities that are being planned by our demand reduction program, local schools and community coalitions.

Drugs pose an enormous threat to our wing and national security. Drug abuse prevention will continue to demand our best efforts. Drug abuse is incompatible with military service, mission accomplishment and our core values.

The DOD has been in the forefront of the nation's efforts to combat illegal drugs. Whether it is through drug testing or educational efforts within our own DOD communities, or voluntarily reaching out to others in the need of help, the DOD has been steadfast in endeavors to confront this problem. Both military and civilian employees continue to mobilize around the world against threats, including drugs, to keep our homeland secure. They must be at their best, both physically and mentally, to make wise decisions under pressure. RRW is a national observance to remind us of the dangers of drug abuse and the benefit of a healthy, drug free life style. RRW provides Barksdale and its surrounding communities an opportunity to reenergize their commitment to a healthy and drug-free lifestyle and emphasize our dedication to education and prevention efforts.

Wearing or displaying the red ribbons will symbolize Team Barksdale's commitment to the development of a healthy lifestyle and drug free choice for our nation and our children's future. Red ribbons can be picked up at the Drug Demand Reduction Office on base at building 4549.

For information on planned activities or if you need addition ribbons or outreach and prevention information or materials, contact the Drug Demand Reduction Office at 456-8021.