The Williston Fire Department and Williston Police Department have had a friendly rivalry for decades. Actually, for over five decades as the 53rd Annual Guns vs. Hoses softball game took place in September.

Williston's first responders will be meeting up once again on February 6th and 7th. This time for the Battle of the Badges Blood Drive at the National Guard New Armory from 12:00PM to 6:00PM both days. The event is not only a way to connect with the residents, but also a way to save lives in North Dakota. Donating blood is one of the easiest ways to give back to the community.

Anyone who can donate blood is welcome to attend the event. Each donor will be given one vote for either the police or the fire department. The winner who receives the most votes will earn the traveling trophy to exhibit until the following Battle of the Badges 
Blood Drive, as well as bragging rights for the following year.

North Dakota typically only has a two-day supply of blood donations on the shelf. That supply can be depleted very quickly if many people are in need of blood. The need for blood is constant. Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs bloodYou'll feel good knowing that you might have saved up to three lives, and the entire procedure is pretty short and safe.

What's the donation process? First, you will check in at the entrance. The trained staff will meet with you to complete or review a questionnaire. Then you will be shown to a comfortable chair that reclines. The specialist will clean your arm and start the collection process which can take up to fifteen minutes (but usually less). After your collection is complete, you will stay for a while and enjoy some light snacks and refreshments to replenish your fluids and nutrients. That's it - you're done. 

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