AUGUST 20, 2025 – Law enforcement and fire personnel are often the first to respond when there is an emergency. They are also quick to act when there is a community need, such as the need for blood donations. The American Red Cross is partnering with local first responders for the 16th Annual Lincoln County Battle of the Badges Blood Drive in the North Platte on Wednesday, September 10, 2025.
During this blood drive, local Fire and Police personnel will compete to see who can recruit the most blood donors. Donors can vote for which agency they would like to win – fire/EMS or law enforcement. The winning side gets bragging rights for the next 365 days!
More than 1,300 units of blood have been collected in the previous 15 years of this drive. In addition to supporting patients who need blood, this drive also serves as a way to honor first responders as the country recognizes the anniversary of 9-11.
16th Annual Lincoln County Battle of the Badges Blood Drive
Wednesday, September 10, 2025
11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Venue 304 (306 E 5th Street, North Platte, NE 69101)
All who come to donate will receive a commemorative Battle of the Badges t-shirt or a limited-edition American Red Cross x PEANUTS mystery t-shirt, as well as a meal.
To schedule an appointment:
- Download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App
- Visit RedCrossBlood.org
- Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767)
Use sponsor code: NPbattleofbadges to donate at this drive.
All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.
