Red ribbon week Published Oct. 23, 2007 By Airman 1st Class Wesley Wright Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. - The Minot Air Force Base community joins people across the country in celebrating a drug-free lifestyle during the 21st annual National Red Ribbon Week Oct. 23 to 31. "As a symbol of the united and visible commitment to a drug-free America, red ribbons will be placed around the base by volunteers and activities will be held to emphasize drug abuse awareness," said Laurie Adkins, Red Ribbon Week coordinator. Red Ribbon Week was started after drug traffickers in Mexico City murdered Kiki Camarena, a U.S. drug enforcement administration agent, in 1985. The National Family Partnership began wearing red ribbons to symbolize their commitment to a healthy, drug-free society. "The main thrust of Red Ribbon Week is to fight drug abuse in communities," Ms. Adkins said. "One of the best ways to prevent drug abuse is to educate our young people." The Drug Abuse Resistance Education program and McGruff the crime dog will be part of Red Ribbon Week activities to educate the young. "Because ND schools have regularly scheduled state testing (during Red Ribbon Week) their activities and lessons promoting a drug-free lifestyle will be held Nov. 19-21 at Dakota Elementary School, North Plains Elementary School, Glenburn Public School and Memorial Junior High School," said Ms. Adkins. "Drugs can bring nothing but pain and heartbreak," Ms. Adkins said. "That's why Red Ribbon Week is important. It allows children, and not just children but adults as well, to take a moment and think about the negative aspects of drugs." Also, Red Ribbon Week information displays will be located at the 5th Medical Group and various areas of the base. "We encourage everyone to join this effort and show their support of a drug-free lifestyle and community by wearing a Red Ribbon this week," Ms Adkins said. For more information on Red Ribbon Week activities, or to get a red ribbon, contact Laurie Adkins at 723-5780.