Sussex Elks Lodge hosts awards dinner

SUSSEX — The Sussex Elks Lodge No. 2288 recnetly held its annual Enrique Camarena awards dinner.

This annual event is centered around Red Ribbon week each October and honors local Law enforcement officers for their work in drug awareness education of our youth.

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Began its Drug Awareness Program in 1983 and through the years has partnered with many other organizations, none more rewarding than the Red Ribbon Campaign. The origins of the Red Ribbon Campaign are humble. Enrique Camarena was a DEA Agent in Mexico. On Feb. 17, 1985, he left his office to meet his wife for lunch but was abducted and one month later, his tortured body was found on the side of the road.

Officer Camarena believed one person can make a difference. In his memory and sick of the destruction of drugs and alcohol abuse, friends and neighbors began wearing Red Satin ribbons. This movement grew and coalitions began to form. The Elks took Enrique as their model and embraced his belief; one person can make a difference.

The officers honored at this year’s dinner are making a difference in our children’s lives. They were nominated by their superior officers for their efforts in regards to our youth. During this year’s event the officers honored received an award from the Elks and a proclamation from the New Jersey State Legislature. From the local lodge level, the officers nominated will be submitted to the Elks State and then National Association for further consideration. This year’s recipients are: Sussex County Sheriffs Officer Johnny Swords, Corporal Christopher Jones, Washington Twp. P.D.; Patrolman Brian Kithcart and Detective Rod Mosner – both Andover P.D.; Detective Ryan Tracy, Hopatcong P.D.; Sergeant John–Paul Bebe, Sparta P.D.; Detective Aaron Perkins, Hackettstown P.D., Detective Anthony Da Cunza, Chester P.D.