Battle Of The Badges Returns To Clayton—This Time To Save Lives

CLAYTON, N.C. — The rivalry between the Clayton Police Department and Clayton Fire Department is returning, but instead of competing on the softball field, the two agencies will battle to see who can inspire the most lifesaving blood donations.

The annual Battle of the Badges Blood Drive will be held from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Friday, July 17, in the Town Council Chambers at Clayton Town Hall, 111 E. Second Street.

The community is invited to participate in the event, which is hosted in partnership with the American Red Cross. While appointments are encouraged, walk-in donors are also welcome.

The blood drive comes just weeks after the Clayton Fire Department defeated the Clayton Police Department 23-2 in the annual Battle of the Badges softball game. Police officers are hoping to even the score by earning more votes from blood donors.

When checking in, donors will have the opportunity to decide whether their donation counts toward the Police Department or the Fire Department as the two agencies compete for this year’s Battle of the Badges title.

Beyond the friendly competition, organizers say the event serves an important purpose by helping ensure hospitals have an adequate blood supply for patients in need.

According to the American Red Cross, someone in the United States needs blood every two seconds. A single blood donation can help more than one patient, including those recovering from traumatic injuries, surgeries, cancer treatments, and other medical emergencies.

Before donating, participants will complete a brief health screening. The actual blood donation typically takes about 10 minutes, with the entire appointment lasting about an hour.

Appointments can be scheduled in advance at the Town of Clayton’s blood drive registration page, though walk-in donors will also be accepted throughout the event.