2016 Red Ribbon Week National Campaign

1.  The Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness designated 23-31 Oct as Red Ribbon Week, the celebration of drug abuse prevention and education in the military services.  Red Ribbon Week honors the memory of Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent and former Marine Enrique S. Camarena who was murdered by drug traffickers in 1985.  This annual observance of the continuing work to make a drug-free Marine Corps will be marked by commands setting aside time to emphasize the benefits of pursuing a drug-free lifestyle.
2.  Marine Corps activities are encouraged to provide resource information, publish articles and events of interest in local media sources, and allow Marines and their family members to participate in appropriate observances in support of Red Ribbon Week.  Civilian personnel are also encouraged to participate in community Red Ribbon Week programs.
3.  Commands are encouraged to obtain further information through the Bureau for At-Risk Youth, (800) 999-6884; National Family Partnership, (800) 705-8997; and the Federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, (877) 726-4727.
4.  Release authorized by Major General B. W. Whitman, Director, Marine and Family Programs Division.