Heroes Remembered Blood Drive draws dozens of donors

Dozens of donors turned out to give blood Saturday during a Heroes Remembered Blood Drive in Carson City.

The day-long event included a ceremony in honor of first responders and the 10th anniversary of 9/11, said United Blood Services donor recruitment supervisor Alana Ladd-Ross.

In addition to lots of food donated by Red's Old 395 Grill and Yogo Frozen Yogurt & Sweet Treats, the event included representatives from the U.S. Armed Forces, the Army National Guard, Carson City Search and Rescue, Carson City Sheriff's Department, Carson City Fire Department and Carson High School's Naval Junior ROTC.

During a special ceremony, Mayor Robert Crowell, a Vietnam Veteran and Retired Navy Captain, spoke of the IHOP shooting Tuesday.

"We're able to get through all this because of our first responders, paramedics, hospital staff and sheriff's office," Crowell said. "Things like this show us the necessity of giving blood."

Assistant Fire Chief Tom Tarulli said he has been a 34-year donor.

"There have been a lot of changes in our department with first responders since 9/ll, and we've tried to turn something bad into something good," he said. "A pint of blood is a life-saving tool."

United Blood Services Executive Director Gary Haman thanked attendees for their participation and praised donors.

"We also have unsung heroes like our blood donors," Haman said. "Without you, a lot of people would die."

For those who would like to give blood this month in honor of 9/11, UBS is located at 256 E. Winnie Lane. For more information, call (775) 887-9134.