Bragging rights will be on the line next week as law enforcement officers face-off against firefighters in the "Battle of the Badges." However, you don't have to wear a badge to participate in the "Never Forget" community blood drive. Anyone can donate blood on behalf of firefighters, or on the behalf of law enforcement, and the donation will be counted for one team or the other during the very friendly competition.

It will be held at Madison Fire Station #11, 4011 Morgan Way, on Tuesday, September 11th, from 7:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m.

The blood drive is a way for all who wear the badge to remember 9/11 victims, honor first responders, and to get us all to think more about the never-ending need for community service, which in this case focuses on the constant demand for blood donations.

The Madison Police Department is proud to partner with the Madison Fire Department and the American Red Cross to make "Never Forget" a reality.

"The ‘winner ‘of the contest gets a plaque and bragging rights," said Lt. Jen Krueger Favour, the MPD's "Never Forget" coordinator. The American Red Cross gets needed blood, and the community gets a way to memorialize 9/11 by joining ranks with those who wear the badge; all giving back in an important and fun way.

Those wanting to join in the "Battle of the Badges" can "walk-in" Tuesday at Fire Station #11; however, appointments are preferred. They can be made by visiting the American Red Cross's website: http://www.redcrossblood.org/

For those who can't make it Tuesday, but would still like to "compete," blood donations can also be made from September 11th to the 15th at the American Red Cross East Donor Center, 2109 Zeier Rd., or at the American Red Cross West Donor Center, 4860 Sheboygan Ave.

Just contact the American Red Cross, set up an appointment, and let them know on which "team" you will be competing.