Blood drive scheduled supports troops overseas Published March 11, 2008 By Airman Sondra M. Wieseler 49th FW/PA HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- The Armed Services Blood Program is holding a blood drive March 12 at the Community Activity Center here from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. The blood collected at the drive will directly benefit active duty servicemembers and their families. All donated blood will be sent overseas to units in Afghanistan and Iraq in support of the troops operating in the area of responsibility. "With all the operations in the AOR, there is an increased need for blood," said 1st Lt. Kathryn Maitrejean, 49th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron section commander, who volunteers as the installation blood drive coordinator. "So many people are unable to donate because of deployments that if you are able to give blood, it's important." The ASBP collects a list from units deployed overseas of what types and how much blood is needed, said Lieutenant Maitrejean. Once they've sent the requested amount, the remaining blood goes into a pool that is then distributed as needed to different military treatment facilities throughout the Armed Forces. The Holloman Officers' Spouses' Club has offered to provide free child care at the CAC for all active duty members and spouses who would like to donate but may have child care issues. Walk-ins are welcome for the blood drive; however, appointments can be made on the Armed Services Blood Program website, www.militaryblood.dod.mil. The website also contains information on requirements to donate and a list of upcoming drives. "I've seen the patients who receive the units and it makes a huge difference," said Capt. Molly Hay, 49th Medical Group, officer in charge of laboratory services, who has participated in blood drives for the past five years. "I've seen people's lives saved." Everyone is encouraged to donate and possibly save the life of a comrade.