U.S. Army in Japan concludes Red Ribbon Week by urging youth to choose smart, healthy, drug-free lives | Article

CAMP ZAMA, Japan – The U.S. Army Japan community wrapped up another successful Red Ribbon Week, with senior leaders speaking directly to community youth on Nov. 1 about the importance of living a drug-free life.

Red Ribbon Week is the country's longest and largest anti-drug campaign and its goal is simple: educate youth about the dangers and negative side effects of drugs. This year's theme for Red Ribbon Week was “Life is a movie, a drug-free movie.”

At the end of the week, organizers held some closing events at both Camp Zama and Sagamihara Family Housing Area, including military dog ​​demonstrations at Zama Middle High School and an anti-drug skit at the Youth Center.

Zama Middle High School Principal James Rippard volunteered to assist the 901st Military Police Unit with military working dog demonstrations. Rippard donned a padded tracksuit and, to the cheers of students, tried to escape from the working dogs, who quickly caught up and restrained the principal.

Later that day, U.S. Garrison Japan's senior advisor, Command Sgt. Maj. David Rio spoke to children at the School Age Center about SFHA.

Rio reminded the children that they are the directors of their own lives.

“'Life Is a Movie, Film Drug Free' means you have the power to make good decisions and create the best version of your story,” he said. “Continue to make smart decisions, support your friends and remember that we are all here to help you on your journey.”

During the final event of the week, Col. Marcus Hunter, USAG Japan commander, visited the Camp Zama Youth Center and watched a skit performed by members of the Torch Club, an initiative of the Boys and Girls Clubs of America aimed at to promote and develop the leadership skills of teenagers.

Hunter thanked the club members for their hard work and dedication and for working to create the skit for their fellow youth.

“In the Torch Club, you hold up a torch that serves as a model for others to see and emulate,” he said. “When they are in the dark, they can see your good example and follow you.”

He also spoke about the importance of this year's theme and how youth will ultimately make important decisions about their own future.

“The idea is to pick a great story,” he said. “Pick a great movie and think long term… 'What do you want to be when you grow up?' All of these decisions that you make throughout your life that lead you in this direction every day now.”

Maria N. Ortiz, risk reduction program coordinator for USAG Japan, said she believes this year's Red Ribbon Week was very successful with elementary, middle and high school students, as well as several community partners, actively participating in the Army Substance Abuse Program.

She thanked the Army Community Service, Child and Youth Services and Department of Defense educational activities personnel for their enthusiasm, ideas and help throughout the campaign week “to spread the message to all youth in our community.”

Ortiz also emphasized the importance of focusing year-round on urging youth to make smart, healthy choices.

“As parents, employees, military personnel – we all have a responsibility to teach our younger generation to avoid drugs,” she said. “I encourage everyone who has youth[s] in her home to have these tough conversations about drugs and underage drinking. We are our children’s role models and prevention starts with us.”