The first ever ‘Battle of the Badges’ blood drive is taking place in Eau Claire as the American Red Cross says it's facing an emergency need for blood and platelet donors. The Red Cross is partnering with the Eau Claire Police and Fire Departments to help fill some of the need. Each person who donates will be given a special Battle of the Badges t-shirt. During the event, blood drive donors are able to cast a vote in support of either the police or the fire department in a friendly competition for bragging rights. “We're getting the first responders involved because they're the ones who see everything first hand and know the need for blood. We're in an emergency appeal right now so blood is needed everywhere so we're really reaching out for not only first responders to come but the community as well,” said Megan Geroux, with the American Red Cross.