Full announcement from Buncombe County:

Join local law enforcement, firefighters and EMS as they battle it out by donating blood!

The American Red Cross Battle of the Badges is back, where local law enforcement will “battle” it out with local firefighters and EMS to see who can recruit the most people in their community to donate blood.

Wednesday, February 20
8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
First Baptist Church of Asheville

This year’s Battle is being held in honor of Deputy Josh Robinson, of the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office. Deputy Robinson, age 25, was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in the fall and is currently undergoing treatments at Mission Hospital. “Deputy Robinson exemplifies honor and commitment to this community and we would like to give something back in his honor while he is battling this disease,” said Lt. Helen Hall of the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office.

The Battle of the Badges blood drive is a friendly competition to encourage community members to join local heroes and perform a heroic duty of their own. All presenting donors at the blood drive will get to cast their vote to help decide the winner of this year’s competition.

“EMS, fire and law enforcement know first-hand how important it is to have blood readily available during emergencies,” said Stacy Taylor, Donor Recruitment Representative of the American Red Cross Carolinas Blood Services Region. “This is their chance to join forces and partner with the Red Cross to encourage the community to take on the civic responsibility of blood donation.”

Your votes are needed to help determine the winner of this year’s battle; so, mark your calendar! The winner of the battle will earn bragging rights.

Free t-shirt to all presenting donors!

To register, visit http://www.redcrossblood.org and use Sponsor Code avlbattleofbadges, contact Stacy Taylor at 258-3888 ext. 414, or email her at Stacy.Taylor@redcross.org to schedule your donation.

You may also visit the Asheville Blood Donation Center on Edgewood Road February 18 through 21.