"Operation Save Teens" was created as an educational partnership between the Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control Board and the Calhoun/Cleburne Drug Task Force to deal with the alarming number of teens experimenting recreationally with prescription drugs in Northeast Alabama.

The program was designed to function on a three-prong approach: target and enforce narcotics violations, educate the general public on the inherent dangers of recreational drug use, and provide support and rehabilitative resources to individuals battling addiction.

"Operation Save Teens" was recognized by the National Liquor Law Enforcement Association as the 2006 National Alcohol Education Program of the Year.

"The program started as an off-duty attempt to better our community which quickly evolved into a statewide education and prevention program," said Lt. Mike Reese.