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145th Airlift Wing Airmen give the "gift of life" during blood drive

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Patricia F. Moran
  • 145th Public Affairs
Airmen from the 145th Airlift Wing rolled up their sleeves to donate blood as they stepped into the Community Blood Center of the Carolinas (CBCC) bloodmobile during a blood drive held at the North Carolina Air National Guard Base, Charlotte Douglas International Airport, April 9, 2016.

Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. More than 400 blood products are transfused each day in local hospitals within Mecklenburg County alone, more than has ever been needed in any domestic disaster.

"Only 35 percent of people can donate but only seven percent actually do," said Ashley Gilbertson, mobile team leader for CBCC.

"People in the military are selfless and want to support their community. These Airmen not only wanted to, but took the time to come in and donate today," said Gilbertson.

"I've been donating since my junior year in high school. I know there is a need, and this is one way I can give back to our community," said Senior Airman Daniel Monahan, crew chief for the 145th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.

All blood donated through the Community Blood Center of the Carolinas goes to help those patients who live in our local communities.

Blood is split into three products - red cells, plasma and platelets. This means the donators blood can be used to help three different patients in the local hospitals. The whole process takes an hour or less, and in the end, you walk away saving up to three lives.

"We are so thankful to be on base today and that your commanders allowed your staff to donate," said Cheryl Gunter, CBCC coordinator.

NCANG Airmen "found the hero within" giving 14 units of blood, epitomizing the Air Force core value of service before self.