Police win Battle of the Badges blood drive

Beavercreek police came out victorious in the Battle of the Badges blood drive held on Oct. 18 at Peace Lutheran Church. The Beavercreek police department came out just ahead of the Beavercreek township firefighters, after donors gave them a close 48 to 42 votes.

A total of 95 donors, 10 of whom donated blood for the first time, made 81 donations and met 102% of the drive’s collection goal. The number is roughly 10% shy of the last Battle of the Badges in 2019, but the Community Blood Center said interest in the challenge helped increase the number of donors by nearly 80% compared to the August blood drive at Peace Lutheran.

“It was a tough battle,” said police community engagement Officer Kris Brownlee, who spoke like a proud football coach. “But my team fought back and got the final TD, and it was in overtime because we won by six points! It was just a great turnout.”

The firefighter auxiliary served donors “Hillbilly Chili,” the winning recipe from Station 64, Platoon

C’s entry in the October Fire Prevention Week chili contest. The police countered with dozens of donuts donated by Bill’s Donut Shop in Centerville.

Reviving the Battle of the Badges in October has benefited the Community Blood Center because of the lingering impact of COVID-19 restrictions on many blood drives.

“I think we’re excited about getting back to normal,” said Twp. Fire Division Chief Scott Dorsten. “This is one of the things we’ve always enjoyed as a fun rivalry. We’re not the winners, the community is, and those in need.”

Firefighters have historically topped the vote count in four of the first five Battle of the Badges. Police turned the tide in 2019 before COVID-19 sidelined the competition in 2020. Beavercreek Twp. administrative professional Tori King organized the drive’s comeback.

“I’ve been with the Fire Department two years, and my parents were actually in law enforcement,” King said. “So, I was interested in the Battle of the Badges because of the ‘family divided!”