Battle of Badges blood drive pits police, firefighters

The Battle of the Badges blood drive will ask donors to support local police and firefighters Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 3730 Bienville Blvd., Ocean Springs, Mississippi, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., a Facebook post announcing the event said.

The post said American Red Cross representatives will collect blood donations and ask donors to indicate which first responders they support as part of a friendly competition between police and fire. The post said donations help local heroes and their families and that one donation can save up to three lives.

First responders include police officers, firefighters and emergency medical personnel who provide emergency response and public safety services. The American Red Cross organizes blood drives nationwide to maintain hospital supplies and support disaster response, and community blood drives often encourage broad participation to meet local needs.

The Facebook post encouraged people to bring friends, family and coworkers to increase support for their chosen badge. We will provide more information as it becomes available.