Photo By Staff Sgt. Jerry Zuetrong | Volunteering to help out during a blood donor event held in tandem with Cadet Summer...... read more read more
At Cadet Summer Training in Fort Knox, Ky., on July 8, 2024, Military Intelligence Officer Maj. John Howell of the Washington Army National Guard made his debut as a volunteer with the Salute to Life initiative — an event dedicated to helping soldiers with blood disorders find lifesaving bone marrow and stem cell donors.
For Howell, this was more than a first-time experience — it was a deeply personal mission.
“It’s a great initiative helping out multiple Soldiers who have blood disorders,” Howell said. “This is the way to find them a match and grow the Department of Defense registry.”
The Salute for Life campaign partners with the DoD to build a more robust donor database by enlisting eligible service members. Their goal is to increase the odds of finding genetic matches for those battling life-threatening diseases such as leukemia, lymphoma, and other blood cancers. For many Soldiers, a match within the military’s own ranks could mean the difference between life and death.
Howell's introduction to the cause came through a social media post featuring Sgt. Derek Bishop, a soldier stationed at Fort Bragg, N.C., who urgently needed a donor match. The post struck a chord with Howell, sparking both a sense of duty and a reflection on his own past.
“I did have a company commander who passed away from cancer,” he shared. “It wasn’t a blood disorder, but I have some regret about how I wasn’t there enough for him when he was going through that. So, this is my way to give back, learn from the past.”
Now actively supporting the event, Howell’s focus is on encouraging the next generation of Army leaders — cadets participating in Cadet Summer Training — to take part in the registry. His presence on the ground and his story of personal loss have already begun to inspire greater interest and participation.
With this being his first time with Salute to Life and emerging as a passionate advocate, Howell exemplifies the growing number of service members who find meaningful ways to contribute beyond their standard duties. In doing so, he is helping ensure that hope remains within reach for countless soldiers in need.
| Date Taken: | 07.08.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 07.11.2025 11:17 |
| Story ID: | 542264 |
| Location: | FORT KNOX, KENTUCKY, US |
| Web Views: | 47 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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