HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- Several base agencies are teaming up to show their commitment to a healthy, drug free life and want others to do the same during Red Ribbon Week, Oct. 24 through 31.

The Drug Demand Reduction Program (DDRP) is using the special week to increase awareness about drugs and drug abuse in hopes of making sure schools, workplaces and communities are drug free.

"This is an annual event that DoD and many law enforcement agencies support to bring the focus on drugs, drug abuse and the terrible cost that they have on our country," said Paul Howell, DDRP manager. "Professionals that combat it daily hope to steer people way from this life destroying path."

In conjunction with Red Ribbon Week, the Air Force Office of Special Investigations Joint Drug Enforcement Team, with the 66th Security Forces Squadron and the 66th Medical Squadron pharmacy, will be participating in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day Oct. 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The collection site will be in the Hanscom Exchange foyer and will provide a safe and secure venue for people who want to dispose unwanted, unused or expired prescription medication.

According to the 2009 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's national survey on drug use and health, more than seven million Americans currently abuse prescription drugs. The Partnership for a Drug Free America estimates that each day, approximately 2,500 teens use prescription drugs to get high for the first time.

Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, as well as the home medicine cabinet. The Drug Enforcement Agency, the sponsor of this event, collected more than 309 tons of pills from nearly 4,000 state and local law enforcement agencies during prior collection events.

Red Ribbon Week and Drug Take Back Day go hand in hand.

Red Ribbon Week traces its roots to 1985, when Drug Enforcement Agency Special Agent Enrique (Kiki) S. Camarena was kidnapped and killed while working in Mexico.

Shortly after his death, Congressman Duncan Hunter and high school friend Henry Lozano launched Camarena Clubs in Mr. Camarena's hometown of Calexico, Calif. Hundreds of club members wore red ribbons and pledged to lead drug-free lives to honor the sacrifices made by Mr. Camarena and others on behalf of all Americans.

In 1988, the campaign was formalized, with President Ronald Reagan and his wife serving as honorary chairpersons.

Now, the eight-day celebration is sponsored by the National Family Partnership. More than 80 million young people and adults show their commitment to a healthy, drug-free life by wearing or displaying the red ribbon.

DDRP will be handing out ribbons, information sheets and prevention items and answering drug and substance abuse related questions throughout the week.

For more information about DDRP, call 781-377-5741 or 781-377-4223.

For questions concerning the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, contact Investigator Nicole Boucher or Special Agent Chris O'Neill at 781-377-4605.