New Bern Fire-Rescue and the New Bern Police Department are joining forces with the American Red Cross to host a community blood drive on Wednesday, July 29 from 8:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Formerly known as the “Battle of the Badges,” this year the two departments have changed the theme due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact on our community. In a spirit of unity across our city and around the globe, this life-saving mission to collect blood donations is being called “United Badges.” The blood drive will be held at two locations simultaneously to facilitate proper social distancing. Donors can register to give the gift of life on July 29 at either the Knights of Columbus building at 1125 Pinetree Drive or the Elks Lodge at 1175 Pinetree Drive right next door. All blood donors are required to wear a mask.