Tyndall celebrates Red Ribbon Week

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Vesta M. Anderson
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Tyndall Air Force Base will observe the 2008 Red Ribbon Week, a national observance to remember drug abuse dangers and the benefit of a healthy, drug-free lifestyle, Oct. 23 - 31.

"Participants gain personal satisfaction in knowing they're doing all they can to avert the life-altering tragedies that come from involvement in drug lifestyles," said Lt. Col. Edward Farley, 325th Medical Operation Squadron commander. "We are committed to bringing awareness of the dangers that drug abuse causes. It's a major public health issue in the United States; shattering lives, destroying families and ending promising careers."

This year marks the 22nd Annual National Red Ribbon Week, and Tyndall participants and attendees become part of the solution by educating themselves and others of drug-abuse dangers during a number of events throughout the celebrated week.

The Red Ribbon Week kickoff is at the Base Exchange parking lot from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct 25. Kickoff events include a K-9 demonstration from the 325th Security Forces, face painting, T-shirt judging contest for the Youth Center children and a treasure hunt. Attendees will have access to "Drunk Goggles," which allow users to experience the effects of alcohol impairment.

"This year's theme, 'You Hold the Key to be Drug Free,' puts the emphasis on everyone's personal dedication to be drug free," said Colonel Farley.

Showcasing Red Ribbon's volunteer spirit, the 325th Medical Group Drug Demand Reduction office personnel are sponsoring a beach cleanup from 2 - 4 p.m. Oct. 24 at Crooked Island Beach.

"We will be visiting the Youth Center and the Child Development Center on October 30, along with our doggone best supporter, McGruff the Crime Dog," said the colonel. Halloween bags, containing anti-drug promotion items will also be distributed.

According to the Drug Demand Reduction office personnel, the Red Ribbon campaign began after a 37-year-old United States Drug Enforcement Administration agent, Enrique Camarena, was tortured and killed in Mexico during a drug cartel investigation. Coalitions who honored the agent were quickly formed. They used the red ribbon to symbolize Carmarena's memory and his fight against illegal drug exploitation.

"The Panama City area is a significant corridor for drug trafficking," said Colonel Farley. "Vigilance is necessary to ensure the Tyndalll community and the surrounding population receives as much information on combating illegal drugs as possible."

The Red Ribbon campaign, sponsored by Tyndall's DDR office, provides the opportunity to educate Airman and all Tyndall members.

"We encourage all of Team Tyndall to participate in the Red Ribbon anti-drug activities and help spread the message to Tyndall citizens, grownups and kids alike," said Colonel Farley.

For more information or to sign up for volunteer events, call the Drug Demand Reduction office at 283-7251.