Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
OGDEN, Utah (May 26, 2022) — The American Red Cross of Utah is partnering with Major Brent Taylor’s family and friends to host the Gold Star Family Blood Drive, held in honor of the former Ogden mayor who gave his life defending our country in Afghanistan. The blood drive will be held Friday, May 27, from noon to 5 p.m., at the South Ogden Stake Cultural Hall, 4075 Orchard Ave.
This Memorial Day weekend, the American Red Cross of Utah is inviting people across the state to honor those who have died while serving in the United States armed forces by donating blood and giving the gift of life, said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region, and U.S. Navy veteran.
“On Memorial Day, we honor and reflect on the courage and dedication of the members of the United States Armed Forces who made the greatest sacrifice for our community and our country,” she said. “This weekend, I encourage you to turn ‘Thank you for your service’ into action – and donate blood to help those in need.”
Maj. Taylor was the North Ogden mayor when he took a leave to serve his fourth deployment in Afghanistan. In November 2018, he was killed in an attack in Kabul, marking the first time since the Civil War a sitting U.S. elected official was killed in action.
“I hope that you can take a few minutes and share that beautiful gift of life. Come visit with us. Come laugh, come cry, come remember,” said Jennie Taylor, Brent Taylor’s widow. “By donating blood, we can honor those who were willing to give their lives for us.”
The Major Brent Taylor Foundation and the American Red Cross of Utah have partnered on Memorial Day blood drive since 2021 and Veterans Day blood drive since 2018 to honor those who have served and those who have died for our country.
Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the blood drive by going to RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS and using the BRENT sponsor code.
Blood drive safety
The Red Cross follows a high standard of safety and infection control and will continue to socially distance wherever possible at blood drives, donation centers, and facilities. While donors are no longer required to wear a face mask, anyone can choose to wear a mask for any reason. The Red Cross will also adhere to more stringent face mask requirements per state and/or local guidance, or at the request of blood drive sponsors.
How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767), or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent, where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds, and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also must meet certain height and weight requirements.
Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.