HOHENFELS, Germany -- Parades, banners, crazy socks and superheroes all contributed to the festivities at Hohenfels Elementary School during a week long campaign against drugs during Red Ribbon Week, Oct. 21-25.
What began in 1988 as a tribute to DEA Special Agent Enriqué "Kiki" Camarena who was killed in the line of duty, Red Ribbon Week has evolved into the oldest and largest anti-drug program in the country. Estimates place participation in red ribbon events at more than 80 million people a year.
"We celebrate Red Ribbon week at our schools to give the children a clear and consistent message, year after year, about the hazards of substance abuse," said Maria Ebert, HES guidance counselor.
Sixth-graders crafted banners with anti-drug slogans, and students throughout the school added their signatures to the banners along with U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria-Hohenfels Manager Michael Haney.
"This is about making good choices and living a healthy lifestyle," Haney said.
The entire school marched with banners and red ribbons flying to the Health Clinic where Lt. Col. Shane A. Roach, Hohenfels Health Clinic commander, spoke to the children. Roach utilized this year's theme of "Love Yourself; be drug free" to encourage students to make healthy choices such as getting enough sleep, eating right, getting enough exercise and saying no to drugs.
"I'm really excited everyone was able to come to the clinic today on a day when you're not sick, because it's really important here not only that we treat you when you're sick, but we teach you how to be well," added Janet Rogers, community health nurse.
Throughout the week students "Socked it to drugs" by wearing crazy socks, and came to school dressed as superheroes to demonstrate that "Superheroes don't do drugs." Prizes were awarded for the classes with the most participation.
"The more we involve our parents and community in this - the better chance we have of making an impact on the choices that our young people will be making in the future," said Ebert. "It is important for all of us to visibly take a stand against the misuse of drugs and alcohol, and to pledge to serve as role models for the next generations."
Social Sharing