Battle of the Badges coming Feb. 4 Published Jan. 5, 2015 By Rebecca Amber Staff writer EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Each year in February, the Edwards community is invited to participate in the Battle of the Badges, a blood drive competition between the military, the police department and fire department. The goal is simple, collect the most blood. American Red Cross blood drives are held on the first Wednesday of every month in the Chapel 1 Annex. Eligible donors are able to give blood once every two months. The February drive on Feb. 4 is the largest one of the year, expected to bring in over 40 appointments plus walk-ins. "We had a gentleman at one of the hospitals in the [Antelope Valley], City of Hope, and they were telling us about all of the blood they get from the drives here on base. I can really see the differences we make across the Antelope Valley," said Senior Airman Joe Hernandez, 31st Test and Evaluation Squadron and blood drive coordinator. Hernandez added that the Battle of the Badges is a family-friendly event, open to anyone with base access. "If you are worried that you can't bring kids, don't worry because we're going to have a kid's corner with a movie playing," said Hernandez. To make an appointment for the February blood drive or to ask questions, email Senior Airman Joe Hernandez at joe.hernandez.8@us.af.mil.