by Ken Quintanilla

Guam - "A healthy me is drug-free." That's the theme of this year's Red Ribbon Campaign which officially kicked off today at the District Court of Guam. Governor Eddie Calvo was on hand to proclaim October in honor of Red Ribbon Month urging the people of Guam to take a proactive role in drug abuse prevention.

U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration's resident agent in charge Mike Puralewski says the campaign is an important opportunity to address the youth of our future. "It's a big decision to remain drug-free and it's a great opportunity to make that commitment but to also show that you are a drug-free person and try to pass that on to your fellow students," he explained.

The red ribbon serves as a symbol for kids to stay drug-free. The campaign started in honor of a DEA agent who was kidnapped and murdered while investigating drug traffickers. Throughout the month, various activities will take place including a poster decorating and school gate decorating contest, community and educational outreach and a red ribbon awareness wave.