Sheppard donates blood for the holidays Published Dec. 27, 2011 By Josh Wilson 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The American Red Cross visited Sheppard to collect blood donations for the upcoming holiday season when the blood supply is generally needed the most. They set up shop at the Airmen's club on Dec. 13, and collected donations through Dec. 15. "Going into the winter holidays, Sheppard was our last major opportunity in Texas to stock up on blood before the shelves go empty during the holidays," said Alison Cook, American Red Cross supervisor. Sheppard has historically been very good in assisting with donations, making the base a prime stop for the American Red Cross, and this opportunity was no exception. Over the course of three days, 687 Sheppard Airmen donated 657 units of blood, which the Red Cross says has the potential to save as many as 1,971 lives. "We started out a little slow, but picked up quickly as day two and three came around," said Kelly Carlin, Red Cross donations recruiter. "Airmen were very eager to help their fellow Americans any way they could and stepped up big." The American Red Cross is scheduled to return to Sheppard in April to allow anyone that missed this opportunity to give next time they are here.