Hailey
The 2025 Battle of the Badges Blood Drive brought the community together once again in a life-saving event. Over 500 people participated in this friendly competition between local emergency services to see who could inspire the most blood donations.
While Emporia Fire Department (EFD) walked away with the traveling trophy for the second year in a row, the real winners were those whose lives will be saved through these donations.
Emporia Fire Department Wins Again
On the final day of the blood drive, 40 pints of blood were collected, helping the event reach a total of 174 usable pints over three days. The Emporia Fire Department won the traveling trophy with 67 votes from blood donors.
This marked the second year in a row that EFD won the trophy. Fire Marshal Stephen Beemer was proud of the win but said the best part is knowing the blood will help those in medical need. “The joy is not just in winning—it’s knowing we’ve helped save lives,” he said.
Friendly Competition with a Serious Purpose
The competition between emergency teams like the Emporia Police Department, Lyon County Sheriff’s Office, Emergency Communications, and the Emporia Fire Department is all in good fun. According to Battalion Chief Eron Steinlage, the fire crew enjoys a little playful teasing, but at the end of the day, they are all part of a team trying to help people.
These local heroes work together year-round in tough situations. The Battle of the Badges gives them a chance to connect in a lighter setting, encouraging each other and the community to give back through blood donation.
Red Cross Praises Community Support
Susan Faler, a spokesperson for the American Red Cross, praised everyone involved. She was happy with the strong turnout even though the drive fell just short of its goal. The goal was higher than the 174 pints collected, but Faler said that every single drop can save a life, whether it’s someone in surgery, an accident victim, or a patient with a serious illness.
Events like these don’t just bring in blood—they also bring awareness about the importance of regular donations.
How the Winner Was Decided
The traveling trophy is awarded based on the number of votes received from donors. When someone donates, they get to vote for their favorite emergency department. This year’s vote count:
- Emporia Fire Department: 67 votes
- Emporia Police & Lyon County Sheriff’s Office: 48 votes
- Emergency Communications: finished third
Even though only one group takes home the trophy, all departments are celebrated for encouraging donations.
The Real Impact: Saving Lives
The most important part of the Battle of the Badges is its life-saving impact. Blood donations are always in high demand. According to the Red Cross, one pint of blood can save up to three lives. That means the 174 pints collected could potentially help more than 500 people.
These donations are used in surgeries, for accident victims, and in treatment for diseases like cancer. Donating blood is a simple act that can make a huge difference.
Get Involved Next Year
The Battle of the Badges happens every year. If you missed the 2025 event, you can always donate at your local Red Cross center or look forward to next year’s competition. Whether you support fire, police, or emergency services, your donation supports the whole community.
The 2025 Battle of the Badges Blood Drive was another strong example of how teamwork between emergency responders and the public can save lives. The Emporia Fire Department may have won the trophy again, but every agency played an important role. With over 170 pints collected, hundreds of lives may be saved thanks to the kindness of local donors.
These types of community events remind us that small acts—like donating blood—can lead to big changes. So next time you see a blood drive, consider rolling up your sleeve. You might just help save a life.