Drug Demand Reduction team earns DEA Red Ribbon Award

Oct. 18, 2023

SAN DIEGO, Calif. - The California National Guard's Counter Drug Task Force Drug Demand Reduction team received the Deb Nixon Education Award during the Drug Enforcement Administration's Red Ribbon Awards Ceremony.

For nearly 35 years, the California National Guard's Counterdrug Task Force Drug Demand Reduction program has been an integral part of the fight against youth substance abuse through awareness, education and fostering resilience against substance misuse.

The award was received by Staff Sgt. Christopher Ryan on behalf of his team who tirelessly engaged with local schools, community organizations, other law enforcement agencies and most importantly youth groups to educate and raise awareness about the effects of drug use.

Operation Prevention weaved throughout San Diego and Imperial County, training 33,545 school age children with nearly 65,000 hours of personal interaction in 2023 alone. This dedicated and pertinent coaching empowered young minds with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions about the peril effects of substance use.

The California National Guard's Counter Drug Task Force Drug Demand Reduction team received the Deb Nixon Education Award during the Drug Enforcement Administration's Red Ribbon Awards Ceremony. Video by David Loeffler - California National Guard.