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(Etowah County, Alabama) The oldest and largest drug prevention campaign in the country is set to make an impact locally, according to Sheriff Todd Entrekin.

Red Ribbon Week aims to spread an anti-drug message to school-aged children. It is being observed October 27-31, 2014, by most schools in Etowah County.

“During Red Ribbon Week, young people are encouraged to pledge a drug-free life,” states Sheriff Entrekin. “The special emphasis on drug prevention also allows the community to unify in a stand against drugs and to show intolerance for illicit drug use as well as trafficking.”

Red Ribbon Week began in 1985 to commemorate the death of DEA Special Agent Enrique Camarena who was killed while investigating drug traffickers in Mexico. Locally, Red Ribbon participants will also honor Chris McCurley, Drug Task Force Commander, who lost his life in the fight against illegal drugs in 1997.

Sheriff Entrekin adds, “Officer McCurley’s death is a particularly painful example of how drug use and trafficking has impacted Etowah County. Unfortunately there are many more, and Red Ribbon Week gives us an opportunity to bring awareness to just how much drugs negatively impact individuals, especially students, and the community as a whole.”

The Etowah County Sheriff’s Office helicopter, armored vehicle, motorcycles and mounted unit will be traveling to county elementary schools during Red Ribbon Week in an effort to encourage students to stay drug-free.