American Red Cross Honoring Veterans and Service Members

DULUTH, Minn. — The holidays are one of the two most difficult times for blood donations according to the American Red Cross and it’s also the time of the year that we honor America’s veterans and service members.

So for the ninth straight year the Red Cross and UMD Athletics are teaming up to support our heroes in different ways. The Red Cross is collecting blood at the DECC and is encouraging people of that need for blood especially at this time of year.

Dan Williams, Red Cross Executive Director for Northern Minnesota said, ” This is a good reminder that this time of year is really an important time to plan out I’d like  to donate blood. I’m going to find a time and place to do that. ”

As a bonus if you donate blood tomorrow at the DECC you will receive both a Bentleyville/ Ben Paddle tee-shirt and a pair of special edition ELF socks.

But the Red Cross is much more than simply a Blood donation organization. Supporting service members and veterans is one of the group’s five core missions.

“One of the things I’ve really recognized is how much the community really does care for their veterans and service members,” said Williams. “Really my job is to give them the opportunity to give them appreciation and that thanks.”

At the blood drive and before Friday’s night’ s UMD hockey game with North Dakota, visitors will be able to write a message of thanks on a banner, as well as signing a Holiday card that will be given to veterans.