Heroes Behind the Badges Reach Final Stretch

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A Community Effort to Save Lives

In Sioux Falls, South Dakota, a two-week event aimed at saving lives is coming to an end. The Heroes Behind the Badges blood drive has been a significant initiative, with both the fire department and police department competing to see who can collect the most donations.

Bill Roll, a long-time resident of Sioux Falls, has been donating blood for over 55 years. He recently shared his thoughts on the competition between the local fire and police departments. “I voted for the firemen, and I voted for them because I voted for the cops last time. I switched back and forth,” he said. This friendly rivalry has brought the community together in a unique way.

The competition between the Sioux Falls Fire Rescue and the local police department is intensifying. According to Ken Versteeg, the Executive Director of the Community Blood Bank, the two departments are only 16 votes apart. “That’s unheard of for a large event like this,” Versteeg noted. With nearly 1,100 donations already collected, the all-time record of 1,308 set in 2024 is within reach.

Versteeg expressed excitement about the possibility of breaking the record this year, especially since it marks the 30th anniversary of the event. “There’s a really good possibility that we’re going to see a record break this year, and that would be so exciting,” he said. The community's support has been overwhelming, with many people recognizing the impact of their contributions.

Luke Smidt, the Division Chief with Sioux Falls Fire Rescue, emphasized the importance of giving blood. “We see the accidents, we see the traumas that individuals need the blood. And so when we can be partnered with them so that they get the assistance they need. It has a really amazing impact,” Smidt explained. His perspective highlights the critical role that blood donations play in emergency situations.

The process of donating blood is straightforward and accessible. Donors can give whole blood every 56 days, which makes it easier for individuals to contribute regularly. Versteeg highlighted the ongoing need for blood donations. “When there’s an opportunity for people to give, we want them to give because we use 550 blood donations per week. Regardless of how the weather is, we’re going to use that blood and we’re going to need that blood,” he said.

The Heroes Behind the Badges blood drive will conclude tomorrow at Remedy Brewing Company in downtown Sioux Falls. This event has not only raised awareness about the importance of blood donation but has also brought the community together in a meaningful way.

For those interested in participating in future blood drives, there are multiple locations available. A complete list of donation options can be found online. The continued support from the community ensures that life-saving blood is always available for those in need.