Clayton Rivalry Helps Save Lives One Donation At A Time

CLAYTON, N.C. – The Clayton Fire Department claims this year’s Battle of the Badges Blood Drive title after a close vote during Friday’s friendly competition. Together, the Clayton Fire Department and Clayton Police Department helped collect more than 30 blood donations, giving patients in need a better chance at lifesaving care.

Hosted in partnership with the American Red Cross, the Battle of the Badges Blood Drive invited residents to roll up their sleeves and cast a vote for either the Clayton Fire Department or Clayton Police Department. What started as a little friendly competition became an opportunity for neighbors to come together and make a real difference for people they may never meet.

“We want people to know we are part of this community too,” said Captain Bryan Belvin, Community Risk Reduction Specialist for the Clayton Fire Department. “We enjoy getting out, meeting our neighbors, and supporting events that bring people together. It gives us a chance to connect with people before they ever need to call 911.”

The event also shines a light on the partnership between the Clayton Police Department and Clayton Fire Department. While the rivalry may be playful, the two agencies spend far more time working side by side. From traffic crashes and medical emergencies to structure fires and community events, both departments rely on one another to serve Clayton.

“People see us competing for a trophy, but they also get to see the friendships behind the uniforms,” said Officer Miguel Duran, Community Service Officer for the Clayton Police Department. “We enjoy joking with each other, but there is a lot of respect between our departments. That is what makes events like this so much fun.”

According to the American Red Cross, someone in the United States needs blood every two seconds, and one blood donation can help more than one patient. Community blood drives help hospitals maintain a ready supply for emergencies, surgeries, cancer treatments, and other medical needs. For first responders, encouraging blood donations is another way to serve the community.

“As first responders, we see firsthand how important blood donations can be,” said Belvin. “Giving blood today can help someone tomorrow when they need it most. Every person who donated today became part of that lifesaving effort.”

The Battle of the Badges Blood Drive marks the second competition between the Clayton Fire Department and Clayton Police Department. The first event featured a friendly softball game that raised support for Paddling for Pennies and its mission to assist first responders, active-duty military members, and veterans facing hardships. The second invited the community to donate blood through the American Red Cross.

“Every Battle of the Badges gives us another chance to connect with our community,” said Duran. “Whether someone donates blood, comes out to support the event, or simply stops by to say hello, those conversations help build relationships that last well beyond the event.”

Although each competition had a different focus, both inspired the community to support a cause greater than the rivalry. The final score may decide who earns bragging rights, but the lasting impact reaches far beyond the competition.