Martin police and firefighters square off in “Battle of the Badges”
MARTIN, Tenn. — Friday turned into a day for a little friendly competition, in a blood drive that had citizens rallying behind their protectors.
The annual Battle of the Badges blood drive was held in Martin outside of Simmons Bank. The Martin Police Department and Martin Fire Department squared off in the head-to-head competition.
Not just members of the departments were encouraged to participate, so were members of the community. They were able to give blood and pick which team they’d like their donation to count toward.
Organizers said it’s a lighthearted way to raise awareness about something that’s very important. “On a nationwide average, about every three seconds somebody has to have a blood transfusion,” said John McCarley. “It’s very critical for us to have the blood on hand.”
The winner of this blood driver will be announced Monday, along with the total amounts donated. A trophy will be presented to the winning team.
