South Dakota Air National Guard reaches 7,000 donations

  • Published
  • By Tech Sgt. Abbey Rotter
  • 114th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. --  The South Dakota Air National Guard has reached a milestone with blood donations to the Community Blood Bank bloodmobile which visits the base regularly. As of July 7, 2016, unit members have made 7,000 donations of blood.  Master Sgt. Jon Graff, 114th Logistics Readiness Squadron supply technician, was in the chair when the 7,000th mark was reached.  The next time Graff donates he will personally have donated 12 gallons.

"I've been donating blood for years." said Graff.  "It's convenient that the bloodmobile comes here to the base and great that we are allowed to donate during the day."

The Community Blood Bank's bloodmobile has been visiting the South Dakota Air National Guard since 1991.  Members donations have helped approximately 21,000 patients by donating over 875 gallons of blood over the years.  The July blood drive marks the 144th blood drive held at Joe Foss Field, S.D.

Ken Versteeg, Community Blood Bank executive director, states, "We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with the South Dakota Air National Guard for over 24 years." 

The South Dakota Air National Guard holds six blood drives a year.  Individuals can donate every 56 days. 

"Because of the dedication of blood donors donating blood at the South Dakota Air National Guard, blood is readily available for traumas, surgeries and treatment of cancer." added Versteeg.