Luke observes Red Ribbon Week

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Stephen Delgado
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Most people are familiar with various colors of ribbons symbolizing different causes. The yellow ribbon symbolizes the support of troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. The pink ribbon belongs to supporters of breast cancer research. 

"The red ribbon has become the symbol to reduce the demand for illegal drugs," said Ray Matthews, Luke Air Force Base Drug Demand Reduction program manager. "As such, we have taken the lead to provide various activities in honor of Red Ribbon Week."
What's more, this week has specific objectives. 

"Red Ribbon Week has an outreach objective to reduce the risk of drug abuse among Air Force family members as well as retirees," Mr. Matthews said. "The week is also an opportunity to develop parent and community teams to combat illegal drugs and to promote drug-free lifestyles." 

There are several activities planned for the Red Ribbon Week. 

"The week will be kicked off with Drug Demand Reduction Center personnel handing out ribbons and drug education items at the Luke Elementary School as the students arrive Monday morning," Mr. Matthews said. "There will also be a display at the base exchange Monday. Red Ribbons will be available for display on civilian attire. Military members are encouraged to display a red ribbon in their work centers." 

Also, there is a kick-off event planned for Rancho Santa Fe Elementary School today, according to Master Sgt. Patricia Hedrick, drug test program administrative manager. 

"The school is having a walking school bus today," she said. "The children will be walking to school to promote a healthy lifestyle, learn pedestrian safety and teamwork. Personnel from Luke will assist with the walk. The walk will also be attended by the Avondale mayor, council members, firefighters and police officers. 

"This year's theme is, 'Ask me, see me, be me, -- heroes remain drug free.'" 

The national Red Ribbon Week began when drug traffickers killed a Drug Enforcement Administration agent in 1985, according to Mr. Matthews. 

"Since that time, the National Family Partnership has worked to lead and support our nation's families and communities to nurture the full potential of healthy, drug-free youth," he said. 

For more information about Red Ribbon Week, call Mr. Matthews at (623) 856-2807.