12/16/04 — Briefly

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By News-Argus Staff
Published in News on December 16, 2004 1:56 PM

Blood drive makes goal

The first ever blood drive sponsored by banks in Wayne County met its goal of 50 donations.

"It took the efforts of all involved to make it happen," said Chuck Waller, director of the Wayne County Chapter of the American Red Cross.

Holidays, vacations and cold weather all make December a difficult month for donor turnout, said Don Best, blood services chairman. So the local banks decided to try to restore the blood supply.

The Red Cross and banks hope to make the Bloodmobile an annual event. "I feel like we have something to build on for next year," Waller said.

916th wins award

The 916th Air Refueling Wing's Security Forces Squadron at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base has won the top award in its command and will now compete for the overall Air Force award.

It is the first time the squadron has won the Reserve Outstanding Security Forces award.

The squadron is in charge of maintaining security on base, including at the front gate and on the flight line. It has about 15 members deployed to Iraq and Kuwait to help U.S. Customs officers inspect baggage and equipment headed to the United States.