By Cadet Carlee Pallett, Packer Battalion S5, Public Affairs Officer, and Cadet Brianna Bell, Assistant S5

The Smithfield High School JROTC Packer Battalion program conducted its first of three annual blood drives on Nov. 4 in coordination with the American Red Cross, Luter YMCA and Q-Daddy’s Pitmaster BBQ.

Due to COVID restrictions, the Luter YMCA graciously agreed to host the drive. Cadets collaborated with the American Red Cross and the YMCA personnel to prepare and execute the drive.

The drive resulted in 44 pints of blood being collected, which equates to 132 potential lives being saved. The JROTC thanked all the community members who took time out of their day to come and donate at the drive.

The next drive is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 24.