McConnell recognizes Red Ribbon Week

  • Published
  • By Lisa Bowser
  • demand reduction program manager
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  People may have noticed banners at the East gate and in front of the Southwind Housing gate. 

These banners represent Team McConnell's commitment to live drug-free in recognition of Red Ribbon Week.

Red Ribbon Week, Oct. 23 through 31, is the oldest and largest drug prevention program in the nation. It began in 1985, when Drug Enforcement Agent, Enrique S. Camarena, lost his life in the line of duty and his hometown began wearing red ribbons in honor of his sacrifice. This honor spread across the nation. The campaign reaches out to millions of American youths each year to say no to drugs. It is a national observance to remind us of the dangers of drug abuse and the benefits of a healthy drug-free lifestyle.

As an opportunity for our adult community to reach out to young people, we are partnering with the Wichita Stand Together Coalition and Wichita public for the Reach Out Now Wichita day to talk with fifth and sixth grade classes about underage alcohol use, Oct. 29. If McConnell members would like to volunteer for this event, training will take place Oct. 28 at 2 p.m. in the 22nd Medical Group Clinic lower level conference room. To participate in this event, e-mail Master Sgt. Johnny Vinson, 22nd Medical Group first sergeant, at Johnny.vinson-02@mcconnell.af.mil by Oct. 27.

Substance abuse is a widespread problem in our society. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services, a 1999 survey on drug abuse estimated 14.8 million Americans were using illicit drugs and 77 percent of these Americans were employed. That's 9.4 million people. Drug abuse can affect anyone; it knows no socio-economic boundaries and you can't always tell if someone uses drugs by looking at them.

The Department of Defense has been in the forefront of the nation's efforts to combat illegal drugs. Whether it is through drug testing and educational efforts within our own communities, or voluntarily reaching out to others in need, we have been steadfast in our endeavors to confront this problem.

The DoD observance is designated Oct. 22 through 24. McConnell supports Derby and Wichita public school activities as well as activities with our child development center and school age program for RRW.

The week culminates with the 22nd Security Forces Squadron annual Halloween Watch in base housing. Security forces' members will hand out special treats to children.

For more information on drug prevention and McConnell RRW activities, call the demand reduction program at 759-6369 or 6269.