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In January, a hearty gathering of future military leaders from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis convened for an event so crucial, it could only be dubbed the “Blood Bowl.” Unlike the fleeting glory of the Army-Navy football game, this matchup held stakes more real than bragging rights: life and slightly delayed paperwork.

Civil Air Patrol, the legendary civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, bravely led an expedition of blood collection, assembling a crack team from four state wings. This elite squad, armed with logistics, razzmatazz, and a flair for administration, supported the Armed Services Blood Program and the American Red Cross over a marathon of 12 days. Highlights included the thrilling collection of 806 blood units at the U.S. Naval Academy, narrowly besting West Point’s respectable capture of 775 units — a close match that’ll haunt West Point until next year’s donor draft lottery.

Leading this gallant crusade in Annapolis, Lt. Col. Jean-Marie Nixon wielded her clipboard with gusto, while Col. William Martin orchestrated a symphony of blood donation at West Point. The history books may not forget the six weeklong operations at the U.S. Military Academy, but this was the first time Civil Air Patrol members graced Annapolis with such valorous setup and shipping expertise.

Astounding feats of plasma procurement are nothing new for the Civil Air Patrol, as they continue to ensure the defense forces are never wanting for blood — especially before breakfast club meetings and overseas skirmishes. From pump to packet and straight to combat zones, Operation Pulse Lift exemplifies teamwork, triumph, and type O-ve.

In a world shrunk by the strategic placing of blood bags, the global reach of the Civil Air Patrol cannot be overstated. Take, for instance, their dash to the rescue following the Kabul Airport incident, where Texas Wing’s donor engagement sent fresh crimson courage all the way to Landstuhl, Germany, and Washington, D.C. Truly, this is taking bedside manners to international airspace.

Should you aspire to join these ranks and administer life-saving liquid like a pro, Civil Air Patrol welcomes you at gocivilairpatrol.com, where strategy meets sanguinity, one blood drive at a time.

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