FORT KNOX, Ky. – Low chatter and smiles fill Smith Gym as Cadets assigned to 1st Regiment, Advanced Camp, participate in a blood drive hosted by the American Red Cross, July 3, 2025.

The pint of blood donated by each Cadet will be used by the American Red Cross to supply medical needs, going into a national system that provides blood for both military and civilian sectors.

“The blood will go to anyone who needs it,” said Tammy Ritchie, Account Manager for the American Red Cross. “If the military needs blood from the American Red Cross, they’re going to get it, but the blood can go anywhere. Whoever needs it, is going to get it.”

Even though Cadet Teagan Cover, Loyola University of Chicago, was new to the experience of donating blood, she was excited to be a part of something that gives back to so many people.

“We’re donating blood to help out with people who need it,” said Cover. “It’s helpful for anybody who has any health issues and I’m happy to donate.”

Cover plans to go on to further training after graduation from Cadet Summer Training, working toward branching into medical services in the National Guard.

“I know people that were ER doctors in the Army,” said Cover. “Their experiences drew me into the medical field.”

Cadet Alexandra Sharff, James Madison University, was also drawn to medical services, reading a book about nursing and critical care in high school that had her instantly hooked on the career.

“I wanted to take the more unconventional route of nursing,” said Sharff. “That’s why I decided to join to become an Army nurse.”

For Sharff, donating blood is an easy and quick way to give back to others and advance her knowledge about the medical field.

“I have donated blood before, I think this is my fourth time,” said Sharff. “At James Madison University, our ROTC program hosts a blood drive each semester.”

Cadet Riley Hatfield, University of South Alabama, was eagerly waiting in line for her opportunity to donate.

“Anybody and everybody should donate,” said Hatfield. “People will receive the blood they need because you are giving freely.”

Whether Cadets donated blood for the first time or the fifth time, all agreed that they were giving toward a greater cause that they could be a part of.

“This is a different type of giving back,” said Hatfield. “It’s actually giving part of you to a greater cause.”

“If you give blood,” said Sharff. “You can save a life.”