Media contact: Kirsten Stuart
Regional Communications Associate
kirsten.stuart@redcross.org | 775-741-7906
SOUTH OGDEN, Utah (May 22, 2025) — The American Red Cross of Utah is partnering with the family and friends of Maj. Brent Taylor to host the Gold Star Family Blood Drive in honor of the former North Ogden mayor who gave his life in service during the Afghanistan War. The blood drive will take place on Friday, May 23, from noon to 5 p.m., at the South Ogden Stake Cultural Hall, 4075 Orchard Ave.
This Memorial Day weekend, the Red Cross of Utah invites Utahns to honor the sacrifice of those who’ve died in service to the United States by donating blood and giving back to their communities.
“On Memorial Day, we honor the courage and dedication of U.S. Armed Forces members who made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region and U.S. Navy veteran. “This weekend, I urge everyone to honor those who have died in service to our country through blood donations to help those in need.”
Remembering Major Brent Taylor Through Service
Memorial Day holds a profound significance for Steve and Tammy Taylor, the parents of the late Maj. Brent Taylor. It is a deeply personal time to honor their son’s memory and the service of all who have sacrificed for their country.
“Memorial Day has become especially tender time for us,” shared Steve Taylor. “It’s a moment to reflect on the courage of all who step forward to serve. We hope to channel that reflection into something positive that makes a difference.”
Maj. Taylor was serving his fourth deployment in Afghanistan while on leave from his role as Mayor of North Ogden. Tragically, he was killed in Kabul in November 2018, becoming the first sitting elected U.S. official to be killed in action since the Civil War. His family has since devoted themselves to continuing his legacy by promoting service and community engagement.
Events like the Memorial Day Blood Drive provide a meaningful way for the Taylors to honor their son’s sacrifice. They encourage the community to give the lifesaving gift of blood in Brent’s memory and to reflect on the extraordinary commitment of the nation’s service members.
Schedule Your Blood Donation in Maj. Taylor’s Honor
The Taylor family urges the community to give blood in their son’s memory. Donors can schedule an appointment through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcross.org/BloodDrive or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Use sponsor code MBTF to book your appointment for this Friday or find another convenient blood drive or donation center.
To thank donors, those who come to give blood between May 19 and May 31, 2025, will receive an exclusive American Red Cross solar lantern, while supplies last. Additionally, every May donor will automatically be entered to win a U.S. trip of their choice for two. Full details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/May.
About Memorial Day
First nationally observed on May 30, 1868, Memorial Day was declared a federal holiday in 1971 by Congress and is honored annually on the last Monday in May. The day serves as a time to remember and reflect on the lives of military personnel who have died while serving the United States.
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 follow us on social media.
