Edwards to celebrate Red Ribbon Week Published Oct. 14, 2008 By Jon Fishman Drug Demand Reduction EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Edwards Drug Demand Reduction will host activities for Red Ribbon Week from Oct. 23 through 31, with the theme "Ask me, see me, be. Be a hero, be drug free." Red Ribbon Week is now nationally recognized and observed for the purpose of reducing drug demand and to help recognize the Drug Enforcement Agency's efforts. The observance officially kicks off with a fun run at the Rosburg Fitness Center here on Oct. 24, 7 a.m. The weeklong observance commemorates the personal sacrifice made by DEA Special Agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena in the war against illicit drugs. A former Marine, Agent Camarena became a police officer prior to joining the DEA because he wanted to make a difference in people's lives. While investigating a major drug cartel, Agent Camarena was kidnapped and subsequently tortured to death in 1985. As public outrage over his murder began to grow, Congressman Dunkin Hunter initiated a coalition of clubs pledged to lead drug-free lives. As a result of this coalition Red Ribbon, as it is now known, honors Agent Camarena and others who have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect all Americans against the dangers of illicit drugs. Red Ribbon Week has become the nation's largest and longest running anti-drug campaign. As people across our nation commemorate Agent Camarena's sacrifice, the Drug Demand Reduction program asks all personnel and their families, both military and civilian, to dedicate themselves to living and promoting a drug-free life. For more information, call Drug Demand Reduction at 275-3395.