This summer, Mississippi Blood Services is asking the people in our communities to come out and be a hero for our heroes. After all, they protect our community 365 days a year; however, our first responders will need the help of others to answer this call — providing potentially lifesaving blood to those who need it.

Lafayette County, Oxford and the University of Mississippi will be having their “Battle of the Badges” blood drive the following days at the following locations:

•Today, the MBS Donor Coach will be parked at Turner Center from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

•Tuesday, one MBS Donor Coach will be parked in front of the Oxford Municipal Building, 717 Molly Barr Road, and another MBS Donor Coach will be at Walmart, 2530 Jackson Ave., from 12 – 8 p.m., both locations.

•Wednesday, one MBS Donor Coach will be parked in front of the Oxford Municipal Building, 717 Molly Barr Road, and another MBS Donor Coach will be at Walmart, 2530 Jackson Ave., from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., both locations.

Donors will receive a limited edition T-shirt, while supplies last.

Win a new vehicle

This blood drive is being held in conjunction with the MBS Road to Life 9 Blood Drive Promotion/vehicle give away.

All donors are automatically registered for a chance to win a new Ram 1500 Big Horn 4 X 4 in the Mississippi Blood Services Road to Life 9 Blood Drive. There will be 17 finalists chosen from donors all across Mississippi and one lucky donor will drive away with a sweet new ride on Aug. 25. Visit msblood.com for more information.

Donating blood is safe, simple and it saves lives. Donors must be at least 16 years old (16- and 17-year-olds must have signed parental consent; please visit our Web site for a copy of the form), weigh at least 110 pounds and have a valid ID.

Visit msblood.com or call (888) 90-BLOOD (902-5663) for information. Download the free MBS App for your smartphone or tablet and keep up with all things MBS. You can also visit the MBS Facebook page at www.facebook.com/give2live and follow MSbloodservices on Twitter. #Give1Save3.