News from The Armed Services Blood Program

Armed Services Blood Program Newsletter	March 2, 2010

From the Desk of:
COL Francisco Rentas, Director, ASBPO

In this issue, we highlight some of our work with the Marines. From first-time AB donors to Bethesda blood drives with the Marine's of the 8th and I Barracks in Washington, DC and even a special briefing to the wives of Marine generals, we are reminded of the level of commitment and sacrifice of our Marines.

We've also included a link to our new survey. This survey can help us reach even more donors so that we can continue the vital work of blood collection. So Rise Up. Be heard and thank you for your stellar support!

Warm regards,

COL Francisco Rentas

AB Donors Give Blood for the First Time

Two brave Marine students from School of Infantry (SOI) West aboard Charlie Company rolled up their sleeves to give blood. Private First Class (PFC) James Martin from Boise, Idaho and Private Roberto Banaban of Carson, Calif., wanted to serve their country in a different way by donating blood.

PFC Martin and Private Banaban are first time donors with the Armed Services Blood Program, and while donating, discovered that their blood type, AB negative, represents only one percent of the U.S. population. "I wanted to give blood to help wounded troops overseas, but didn't know my blood type is rare," says PFC Martin. Private Banaban was inspired to give blood because his older brother, also a Marine, was injured during combat mission in Iraq. "I thought of my brother and other Marines fighting in the Middle East for our country. The best way to thank them is by giving blood," says Banaban.

To find out more about these great AB donors, visit www.militaryblood.dod.mil.

Marine Wives Learn All About the ASBP

During the recent Marine Three and Four Star Generals Retreat in New Orleans, the Armed Services Blood Program had the privilege of presenting information about our program to the wives of the Generals. These ladies---leaders in their communities---wanted to hear all about the ASBP and get specific information on how to help bring donors in the door, and spread the word.

COL Rentas gave a thorough briefing on the program's components and distribution system, and explained how the Marines, in particular, are using blood further forward than ever before to save their wounded. Julie Oliveri took a few moments to talk about two Marines who have been instrumental in helping promote the ASBP, and to provide information about our online presence, donor outreach efforts, and donor center locations.

Mrs. Annette Conway, wife of Marine Commandant, General James T. Conway, lead the ensuing discussion resulting in a room full of new and passionate ASBP supporters.

Since the meeting Mrs. Sally Flynn has invited ASBPO to participate in the March 12th Resources Expo at Quantico and Mrs. Conway has asked for talking points and incentives for her upcoming trip to Hawaii, Korea and Okinawa. Hoorah!

The "8th and I" Marines

The Marine Barracks Washington, in Washington, D.C. aka the "8th & I" Marines (named after the barrack's physical street address), are known for their many missions: performing ceremonies, security and burial details. They also support the Armed Services Blood Program's Bethesda location at the Naval Medical Center by hosting blood drives on a regular basis. This helps ensure the supply of whole blood and platelets to medical treatment facilities for wounded warriors and demonstrates, once again, their dedication to helping others.

The show of support is great when both Marines and civilians come to donate. The Marines that are unable to donate, due to deferrals or for other reasons, volunteer to help unload and load equipment, bring refreshements to donors, provide moral support and recruit prospective donors!

Chief Warrant Officer (CWO-4) Dix is the site coordinator that spearheads the team, working to make the blood drive exciting. He ensures the Marines are ready and well hydrated to donate. When asked how many donors are coming, he replies "How many do you need?" The Marine Barracks is steadily increasing their goal to reach 100 pints for each blood drive. CWO4 Dix and the Commanding Officer Colonel Smith always thank the Armed Services Blood Bank Center Bethesda by rolling up their sleeves, extending their arms and filling the bag.

One blood drop gets noticed but a lot of blood drops can save lives.

Picture: While MSgt Hunter donates, GySgt Rootsey brings him refreshments.

Retired Airman on Okinawa Holds Guinness World Record in Blood Donation

Retired Air Force Staff Sgt. Dennis Provencher added another pint last Thursday to his world record. He plans to do it again two months from now. Provencher, 76, was recognized in 2004 by Guinness World Records as having donated more blood than anybody else. To date, with 46 years of donating blood, his total is 34 gallons. "I challenge anyone to catch me," Provencher said.