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The event, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 25, at the Italian Community Center, 227 Mill St., Poughkeepsie, will honor Detective John Falcone, an 18-year veteran of the City of Poughkeepsie Police Department who dedicated his life to protecting the people he served.
On Feb.18, 2011, he was fatally shot in the line of duty while responding to a domestic violence incident. His sacrifice saved the life of a three-year-old child at the scene, said City of Poughkeepsie Police Det. Lt. Matt Clark.
This is the ninth blood drive held in memory of the detective. A total of 500 units of blood have been donated since the first memorial blood drive was held, Clark said.
"The City of Poughkeepsie Police Department encourages members of law enforcement and emergency responders who served with Detective Falcone, and members of the community who want to give, to donate at the memorial blood drive, he added.
The blood drive will help the blood supply recover from a recent donation shortfall that prompted the Red Cross to issue an emergency call for blood donors to give now. Donors of all blood types, especially type O blood donors, are needed to prevent a blood shortage from continuing throughout winter and affecting patient care.
To donate, simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) 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 have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
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