FORT KNOX Ky. – Cadets from 2^nd Regiment, Basic Camp, participated in the Military Blood Drive at Fort Knox, Ky., August 3, 2023.

The Military Blood Drive allows Cadets to have their blood drawn which is tested and collected to be given to service members, Department of Defense employees and civilian families in need.

Cadet Melissa Esswein from the University of Michigan shares her thoughts pertaining to the blood drive.

“I think the blood drive is important because it’s a great way to give back to the community,” Esswein said. “In a military setting, accidents happen, people get injured, and it’s important to be able to supply blood that saves lives.”

The blood Cadets provide to soldiers is secured and checked by Army Medical Laboratory Specialists before being sent to areas where it is needed. Many Cadets exhibit selflessness when given the opportunity to donate blood. 

“I think it’s important for leaders to implement the blood drive because there’s a lot of people in need and there’s a lot of people that are self-centered which is the opposite of the Army’s core values,” Turnipseed stated. “It’s important to have courage and not be afraid of doing the blood drive as well as having trust in leaders and their subordinates when donating.”

Cadet George Turnipseed from Morehouse College also believes the Blood Drive is a vital experience.

“There was a story of a soldier that took two rounds to his body, and he lost a lot of blood, but from donating blood, he was able to pull through, 8 hours after being injured,” Turnipseed explained. “Every pint of blood is really important because you never know who is in need of it.”

The Military Blood Drive allows Cadets to exhibit the qualities of a leader while taking the step of donating alongside other Cadets. The Medical Laboratory Specialists provide a comfortable environment for the Cadets while donating.

“It’s not as nerve-racking to get your blood drawn as you would think,” Esswein said. “People participating in the drive, make sure you are comfortable by giving you food and drinks to keep your energy up.”

During Cadet Summer Training, Cadets can display multiple leadership qualities by taking advantage of events like the blood drive. The Military Blood Drive is offered for each Regiment during Basic Camp and Advanced Camp for the Cadets to donate.

“One of the Army values is selfless service,” Turnipseed stated. “You just can’t think about yourself all the time. You would want someone to do it for you as well.”