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Illinois National Guard Hosts Successful Community Blood Drive
Soldiers participate in blood drive during annual health assessment, with additional support services offered.
Published on Feb. 26, 2026
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Soldiers with the 2nd Battalion, 123rd Field Artillery Regiment in Milan, Illinois, participated in a community blood drive on Saturday, February 21, in conjunction with ImpactLife. The event took place during the battalion's annual Periodic Health Assessment and also included representatives from the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' VetCenter, and personal finance experts to provide additional support services to the Soldiers.
Why it matters
Integrating community service with routine military health requirements demonstrates a proactive approach to both supporting local needs and enhancing the well-being of service members. Providing access to financial and veteran support services during these assessments acknowledges the broader challenges faced by those who serve.
The details
The blood drive offered a convenient opportunity for Soldiers to donate blood. Beyond the health assessment and blood donation, the battalion also invited community resource providers to be present. These included representatives from the ESGR, the VA's VetCenter, and personal finance experts. According to Lt. Col. Drew England, the battalion commander, the additional resources were intended to be helpful during the often-lengthy wait times associated with the Periodic Health Assessment.
- The blood drive took place on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
- The 2nd Battalion, 123rd Field Artillery Regiment has hosted community blood drives intermittently for approximately ten years.
The players
2nd Battalion, 123rd Field Artillery Regiment
A military unit based in Milan, Illinois.
Lt. Col. Drew England
The battalion commander of the 2nd Battalion, 123rd Field Artillery Regiment.
ImpactLife
The organization that partnered with the battalion for the blood drive.
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR)
A Department of Defense program that provides resources and support to Guard and Reserve members.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' VetCenter
A program that provides counseling and other support services to veterans and their families.
What they’re saying
“Instead of standing in a line, they could go talk to someone if they need to.”
— Lt. Col. Drew England, Battalion Commander
“The blood drive was highly successful, with nearly all available appointments filled.”
— Tori Tebbitt, Account Manager, ImpactLife
What’s next
As the 2-123 Field Artillery continues its tradition of community engagement, similar initiatives could further strengthen the bonds between service members and the communities they protect.
The takeaway
This event demonstrates how the National Guard can effectively integrate community service with routine military requirements, providing valuable support to both Soldiers and local residents.
