Red Ribbon Week aims for awareness Published Oct. 23, 2009 Tinker Drug Demand Reduction TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Tinker Air Force Base uniformed and civilian employees will join others across the nation to raise awareness about drugs and encourage healthy choices as they celebrate National Red Ribbon Week, Oct. 23-30. Red Ribbons will be displayed throughout the base 72nd Medical Group facilities. Substance abuse educational material will be distributed at the Base Exchange and 72nd MDG clinic. Red Ribbon Week was established by congress in 1988 to commemorate the Life and work of Enrique "KiKi" Camarena, a Drug Enforcement Administration agent. Enrique worked his way through college, served in the Marines and became a police officer. When he decided to join the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, his mother tried to talk him out of it. "I can't not do this" he told her. "I'm only one person, but I want to make a difference. The DEA sent Camarena to work undercover in Mexico investigating a major drug cartel believed to include officers in the Mexican army, police and government. On Feb 7, 1985, the 37 year old Camarena left his office to meet his wife for lunch. He was shoved into a car by five men. One month later his body was found in a shallow grave. He had been tortured to death. Camarena was murdered in the line of duty. His ultimate sacrifice has come to represent the belief that one person can make a difference in the fight against drugs. As the drug problem in America has taken on a new look in the form of over the counter and prescribed medication abuse it is imperative we stay abreast of the trends and issue surrounding drugs. The consequences of drug use are not limited to the individuals who take drugs. Even non-users are at risk; drug use cost our society over $180 billion a year. Drug production harms the environment; methamphetamine production uses toxic chemicals which seep into the ground and contaminate water sources. Red Ribbon Week serves as a vehicle for communities and individuals to take a stand for the hopes and dreams of our children through a commitment to drug prevention, education and a personal commitment to live drug free lives. Today, the Red Ribbon symbolizes a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. This year's theme is "Drug Free is the Key".