LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, TEXAS –
January is National Blood Donor Month and the Lackland Blood Donor Center is thanking everyone who has given blood and encouraging those who have not to consider becoming regular donors.
The mission of the center is to supply blood products to warfighters in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, plus patients at Wilford Hall Medical Center.
"The blood collected here ends up at Balad within two to three days," wrote Maj. Gen. Thomas W. Travis, 59th Medical Wing commander, in a recent basewide e-mail. "Your blood is saving lives."
Nationwide blood is traditionally in short supply during the winter months due to the holidays, travel schedules, inclement weather and illness, according to the American Association of Blood Banks Web site. This holds true for Lackland.
"A reduction in turnout puts our ability to meet our requirements at home and abroad in dire jeopardy," said Bob Purkhiser, LBDC technical director. "If all who are eligible to donate would do so on a regular basis, say three to four times per year, our blood needs could be met and shortages would be a thing of the past."
Airman Monica Whitney, First Term Airman Center, has been donating blood regularly.
"I have been donating blood for the Red Cross for a long time. I am O negative and we are 7 percent of the population. So, it's nice to be able to do that," said Airman Whitney.
Airman Joshua Hagemann, FTAC, also donated blood recently at the LBDC. He said he did so to help fellow Airmen and save lives.
While young Airmen and trainees donate blood regularly through their flights, more than 40 percent of the blood collected here comes from permanent party personnel.
"We are thankful to all our donors but the needs of the military community are great, and with so many of our people deploying and those returning ineligible to donate, we truly would appreciate more people stepping forward to ensure we meet our mission," said Mr. Purkhiser.
Brig. Gen. Darrell Jones, 37th Training Wing commander, is also encouraging Team Lackland members to become regular donors.
"We're part of the greatest Air Force in the world and here is a chance to make an impact around the world and here at home," said General Jones.
The donation process takes approximately 45 minutes. Team Lackland members can contact Ernie Astorga at 292-8145 for more information on local blood donation drives.