(Photo: Kylie Barrow)

The American Legion is currently underway with its annual Holiday Blood Donor Drive, running from Nov. 23 to Dec. 31. With community service as a core pillar, The American Legion actively engages in blood donation efforts to help save lives.

Legionnaires are encouraged to participate by either donating blood or organizing blood drives as part of The American Legion Blood Donor Program, which has been in existence since 1946. In the year 2022 alone, American Legion posts witnessed a substantial turnout, with 59,835 donors contributing a total of 100,786 pints of blood.

Legionnaires can schedule a blood donation appointment through The American Red Cross’ website here.

Additionally, Legionnaires can reach out to The American Association of Blood Banks, The Council of Community Blood Centers or their local American Blood Commission or American Blood Resources Association for further assistance.

American Legion posts, districts, or departments are urged to host their own blood drives. The Red Cross is willing to work with entities that may have fewer people to ensure successful partnerships in supporting this cause. Legion Posts looking to organize blood drives can establish one by accessing the Red Cross’ blood drive registration page. After completing the online form, a Red Cross representative will be in touch. Those interested can find more information on the American Red Cross website here.

Departments with the highest turnout for both Legionnaires and post participation will be recognized at the Legion’s national convention. Winners will be announced by the national security chairman in front of the convention floor, and certificates will be signed by the national commander and national adjutant, then mailed to the winning departments.

Post participation awards are granted to departments with the highest number of participating posts, while individual participation awards go to departments with the highest percentage of individuals contributing to the program. Participation is measured through the annual Consolidated Posts Reports, where Legionnaires report their blood donations to their posts. Posts hosting blood drives document their involvement on their Consolidated Post Reports, specifying the number of drives conducted and the total pints donated, both by Legionnaires and non-Legionnaires.

Departments will award certificates to posts or individuals with noteworthy records or contributions in blood donor activities. These certificates, signed by department commanders and adjutants, will be presented by posts to both Legionnaires and non-Legionnaires for their outstanding performance in the American Legion Blood Donor Program.

The Holiday Blood Donor Drive organized by the American Legion serves as a way to ensure patients receive the blood they urgently need and encourages widespread participation in the cause of saving lives through blood donation.

For additional information, view The American Legion Blood Program booklet here.

Author: Rikki Almanza

Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.