Saving lives one donation at a time

Photo By Sgt. 1st Class Ryan Hohman | Soldiers with 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, take time out of their day to donate blood during a blood drive sponsored by the Armed Services Blood Bank Center, here, March 13.  

JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, WA, UNITED STATES

03.13.2012

Story by Sgt. Ryan Hohman 

2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division

JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. – Soldiers with the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, exceeded expectations during a blood drive sponsored by the Armed Services Blood Bank Center, Pacific Northwest, here, March 13.

Blood drives like this supply blood products to support the local military community readiness and soldiers supporting operations worldwide. This plays a crucial role in saving the lives of soldiers deployed throughout the world.

This is not the first time the soldiers with 2nd SBCT have exceeded expectations. Just recently, they were recognized during the annual donor appreciation day held by the ASBCC for their prior donations.

“Soldiers downrange always need [blood]. So we always have to stay on the ball and deliver them products,” said Staff Sgt. Jason Kniskern, who serves as a lab non-commissioned officer with the Armed Services Blood Bank Center.

With the need for blood so high, turnout for these blood drives plays an important part in making sure soldiers have the blood they need downrange.

“We have an exact number of units that we have to meet every week,” said Kniskern. “The blood drive today has been really good. We received more than we expected today.”

Many of these soldiers donate blood for more than just an award. They take the time out of their day to help save the lives of their fellow soldiers.

“It makes me feel happy to think I could be saving someone’s life,” said Spc. Ashley Lawrancy, who serves as a supply specialist with the Headquarter Headquarters Company, 2nd SBCT, 2nd ID.

For more information on ways you can donate to help soldiers overseas visit www.militaryblood.dod.mil.

• Date Taken: 03.13.2012
• Date Posted: 03.19.2012 21:14
• Story ID: 85467
• Location: JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, WA, US