Each year - in the spirit of good old-fashioned, red-blooded fun - Nashville's first responders join in a friendly competition where everyone wins. The Music City Battle of the Badges presented by Saint Thomas Health | Ascension brings together those on the front lines of safety to encourage community members to donate lifesaving blood or platelets to the American Red Cross.

The Metro Nashville Police Department were declared the winners of the 2019 competition held at Nissan Stadium, which saw 861 blood donations. Those who donate vote for their favorite badge during the competition. When the votes were tallied, the Davidson County Sheriff's Office actually received the most votes followed by the Nashville Fire Department. However, Sheriff Daron Hall and Director Chief William Swann donated all their votes to Police Chief Steve Anderson in honor of Officer John Anderson who died in the line of duty on July 4.

"We're grateful for all those who donated in this year's competition," said Tiffany Taylor, external communications manager of the Red Cross Tennessee Valley Blood Services Region. "Officer Anderson's legacy will live on through his family, friends, fellow officers, and the patient lives touched through the generous donations made in his honor."

Amid the camaraderie and success of the event, Taylor noted the annual Battle of the Badges comes as the Red Cross is facing an emergency need for blood donors right now as blood products are being distributed to hospitals faster than donations are coming in. More donations of all blood types are immediately needed to help replenish the blood supply. To donate, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 800.RED CROSS (800.733.2767) to make an appointment or for more information.