Alaska National Guard Engages with Schools During Red Ribbon Week

In October, the Alaska National Guard collaborated with the Drug Enforcement Administration and local organizations for Red Ribbon Week, a yearly initiative aimed at encouraging youth to adopt drug-free lifestyles. Over a span of two weeks, the Alaska National Guard Counterdrug Support Program reached out to various schools within the Anchorage School District and the Mat-Su Borough.

Staff Sgt. Nya Dong from the Alaska Air National Guard emphasized the importance of early intervention, stating, “The earlier that we reach the kids, the better that they’ll be able to make better decisions in their life, to make healthy choices.” The theme for this year’s Red Ribbon Week, which runs from October 23-31, was “Make a Difference. Be a Hero. Stay Drug Free.” Interactive lessons included refusal skills and demonstrations of the harmful effects of drugs, which featured damaged pig lungs. Fifth grader Allison Christal expressed the goal of the event, noting, “To not take drugs, or, to stand up and say no to drugs.” A total of three schools in each district participated in the program.