Team Osan to observe Red Ribbon Week Oct. 23-31

Col. Patrick McKenzie, 51st Fighter Wing commander, signs a proclamation for Red Ribbon Week Oct. 17, 2011. Red Ribbon Week raises awareness of drug use and the problems related to drugs facing the community. The program encourages Airmen, parents, educators and community members to promote drug-free lifestyles. This year's celebration will include activities on base for all age groups. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Adam Grant)

Team Osan to observe Red Ribbon Week Oct. 23-31

Col. Patrick McKenzie, 51st Fighter Wing commander, signature on the Red Ribbon Week proclamation Oct. 17, 2011. Red Ribbon Week is the nation's oldest and largest drug prevention program, reaching millions of Americans during the last week of October every year. The Defense Department's 2011 Red Ribbon Week observation is set for Oct. 23-31. Since 1990, DOD has officially participated in this event to raise public awareness and mobilize communities to combat tobacco, alcohol and drug use among military personnel, civilians and their families. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Adam Grant)

Team Osan to observe Red Ribbon Week Oct. 23-31

Published Oct. 13, 2011
By Airman 1st Class Michael Battles
51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Team Osan will observe National Red Ribbon Week Oct. 23-31.

During the week those participating will display a small red ribbon symbolizing their commitment to a drug-free lifestyle.

"The red ribbon symbolizes a commitment to a healthy, lifestyle and community," said Andre Johnson, Drug Demand and Reduction program manager. "No use of illegal drugs and no illegal use of legal drugs."

This week is also used to pay tribute and remember Drug Enforcement Administration Agent Enrique "KiKi" Camarena.

In 1985, Camarena was kidnapped and brutally murdered while on a four-year undercover mission at an illegal drug trafficking operation in Chihuahua, Mexico. Due to the efforts of Camarena a multimillion dollar narcotics manufacturing operation was eliminated.

The first Red Ribbon campaign kicked-off in 1988 with President Ronald Reagan and Nancy Reagan serving as chairpersons.

Throughout the week DDR informational booths will pass out ribbons for RRW, as well as provide informative school visits throughout the peninsula.

"I believe if we educate the children about the dangers of drugs it will forever have a lasting impact on their lives," Johnson said. "As they grow and mature, they will know that drugs and drug abuse is not only dangerous for there, bodies but it can also impact their families and future careers."

For more information, contact Andre Johnson at 784-1256.

Here is a complete list of the week's events here at Osan:

Oct. 24 - 6:30 a.m. Drug Demand/ADAPT Drug prevention 5K Fun Run at the base fitness center
Oct. 25-28 - Drug information booth at 51st Medical Group lobby all week
Oct. 27 -11 a.m. Conducting anti-drug briefing at Osan American Elementary School
Oct. 28 - 8:30 a.m. Conducting anti-drug briefing at the First Term Airman Center Orientation
Oct. 28 -11 a.m. Conducting anti-drug briefing at Osan Middle School
Oct. 31 - 10 a.m. Drug information booth at Base Exchange