**Bristol, Tenn.** — The rivalry between first responders is heating up, but not in the way you might think. This time, it’s all for a good cause. First responders in both Bristol, Tennessee, and Bristol, Virginia, are duking it out to see which agency can bring in the most blood donations. The event, known as the “Battle of the Badges”, aims to support the Marsh Regional Blood Center with much-needed blood donations.
Beginning at 10 a.m. and running until 5 p.m., the event is being hosted in the heart of Bristol at City Hall, located at 801 Anderson Street. The Bristol Tennessee Fire Department, Bristol Tennessee Police Department, Bristol Virginia Fire Department, Bristol Virginia Police Department, and the Bristol Lifesaving Crew are all competing against each other for the ultimate bragging rights.
Each person who donates blood has the option to credit their donation to one of these competing agencies. Whichever department accumulates the most blood donations will hold those coveted bragging rights until the next annual Battle of the Badges. This friendly competition is a win-win, as it serves the critical need for blood in the Tri-Cities area.
Who Can Donate?
The criteria for donation is pretty straightforward. Donors must be:
- At least 17 years old
- Weigh at least 110 pounds
- In good health
- Have eaten a well-balanced meal within 4-6 hours of donating
Local Impact
One of the great things about this event is that all donations made to Marsh Regional Blood Center stay local, directly benefiting the Tri-Cities area. According to organizers, the need for blood donations has never been more critical. Summers often bring a dip in donations, so the Battle of the Badges comes at a pivotal time.
Not only does the event help supply blood for emergencies and medical procedures, but it also fosters camaraderie among local first responders. “It’s great to see everyone come together for such a vital cause,” said one local firefighter. “We may be competing, but at the end of the day, we’re all working towards the same goal.”
Good Deeds and Friendly Competition
For many, having the opportunity to give back while also participating in an enjoyable and friendly rivalry is a big draw. One local police officer mentioned, “Winning would be great, but knowing we’re helping our community is the best reward.”
Local residents also see the value in such initiatives. One donor said, “I’ve lived here my whole life, and I know just how crucial these blood drives are. It’s my little way of giving back.”
How to Participate
If you’re in the area and meet the donation criteria, consider heading down to City Hall. Even if you miss this year’s Battle of the Badges, you can always donate blood at the Marsh Regional Blood Center. Remember, each pint of blood donated can save up to three lives—and that’s worth more than any trophy or bragging rights.
So, let’s see who comes out on top this year. Whether you’re team Fire Department or team Police Department, the true winners will always be the community members who benefit from these life-saving donations.
For more details and to check out how your favorite team is doing in the competition, you can visit the Marsh Regional Blood Center’s website or call their office. Let’s give it up to our first responders who, yet again, show us what it means to serve.
Stay tuned to find out which department will earn the ultimate bragging rights until next year. Until then, let’s keep those sleeves rolled up and spirits high!
