A national shortage has triggered urgent calls for donors by blood banks in many parts of the country. Donors at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall answered that call during a blood drive at the Fort Myer Fitness Center Aug. 17.
The Armed Services Blood Program collects blood for use in military treatment facilities and by military medical personnel serving all over the world. The ASBP also works closely with its civilian counterparts, sharing blood products with civilian agencies in times of need.
Blood donations typically drop off during the summer months, and this year is no exception. But at the JBM-HH drive, blood bank personnel were able to collect enough type O blood to meet demand during what Donna Onwona, ASBP public affairs specialist and donor recruiter for the National Capital Region, called "a very challenging week."
Command Sgt. Maj. Lee Ward, the incoming 4th Battalion, 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) Command Sergeant Major, brought his children to see him donate.
"They can see that the gift of blood has long lasting benefits to those in need … I feel I have passed the desire to give this special contribution to the next generation," Ward said.
Onwana said the blood collected at JBM-HH will supply Military Treatment Facilities in the National Capital Region and at locations overseas.
"The ASBP has always been able to count on blood drives at JBM-HH to help make the weekly quota," she said.
Officials hope to give local blood banks an even bigger boost during the Army-Navy game, with an "Army-Navy Blood Drive Challenge" scheduled for JBM-HH Dec. 6.
Participants will be encouraged to "Beat Army" or "Sink Navy" by casting a ballot for their favorite team while signing in to donate.
For more information about ASBP programs, including platelet donations and bone marrow donor registration, visit militaryblood.dod.mil.
Social Sharing