Seileen Mullen, principal deputy assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, donates blood at the Armed Forces Blood Program blood drive during the 2024 Military Health System Conference in Portland, Oregon, April 11. (Robbie Hammer/Defense Health Agency)
The Armed Services Blood Program is calling for blood donations at their upcoming drive at Kleber Gym on May 28.
Scheduled from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., supports medical operations of US and NATO forces both on and off the field, according to a statement. Due to the holiday, there will be no drive at Sembach, and donors are encouraged to attend the Kleber location.
The blood drive is open to individuals over 18 with base access, including military personnel, civilians and their families, as well as German nationals. The event is organized by the 21st Theater Sustainment Command and the 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command.
Eligibility has been broadened to include more members of the LGBTQ+ community, Europeans and others who resided in Europe or the UK during the “mad cow” disease outbreak.
New guidelines also reduce the waiting period to three months for those who have recently received tattoos or traveled to malaria-risk areas.
Appointments are highly recommended to ensure a smooth donation process, with priority given to Type O walk-ins when possible. Donors can register online via SignUpGenius.
Additional provisions include administrative leave for civilian and local national donors, with supervisor approval. Children over 10 can accompany donors but must stay clear of the donation areas for safety. Those under 10 require additional supervision.
For a successful donation, it is advised to be well-rested, hydrated and have eaten a hearty, iron-rich meal within four hours of donating. For more information or questions, contact ASBP-Europe +49 6371-9464-5885 or email usarmy.donatebloodeurope@health.mil.
May 7, 2024 12:12
