‘Battle of the Badges’ sparks friendly competition

JACKSON, Tenn. — Local public service agencies are depending on your support in a friendly competition that kicked off Monday.

Madison County deputy Lt. Cleven Davis made it in early for the start of the fourth annual Battle of the Badges blood donation contest.

“Without a doubt we are going to be the winners this year,” Lt. Davis said. “I want to be the first one here to set the example and let the citizens in Jackson-Madison County to know to come out and donate blood for a great cause.”

The friendly competition started off Monday with people already donating blood and adding their name to the list while supporting their favorite local agency.

“They put their lives on the line, and so much of what they do everyday is serious,” said Lifeline Blood Services public relations coordinator Cherie Parker. “And saving lives is serious, but we’re going to do it in a fun way, and that’s what the Battle of the Badges is all about.”

The Jackson Fire Department and Tennessee Highway Patrol are a few of the groups competing for bragging rights and the trophy.

Last year, more than 200 people donated blood, and the Jackson Police Department was victorious.

If you are looking to save a life and support one of the eight agencies participating in the Battle of the Badges, you can donate blood at Lifeline from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday and Friday or from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday.

Lifeline Blood Services says all blood types are needed, but there is a critical need for the negative types going into the busy summer months.

“Help your favorite agency win the Battle of the Badges and save a life,” Parker said. “It’s all about saving lives here in West Tennessee.”

In the four years of the Battle of the Badges, there has never been a repeat winner. Donations for the Battle of the Badges will be accepted until Friday, May 27.