Police and Fire Crews in Marshall County engaged in a bloody battle Thursday, a battle to see who could save the most lives, that is. The American Red Cross held its annual Battle of the Badges Blood Drive Thursday.

Police Officers and Firefighters came to the Marshall County Sheriff's Department Thursday to give blood, and engage in a little friendly rivalry. Members of the Red Cross say the yearly competition is a fun way to keep blood supplies up.

“We know that the Fire Department will beat the Police Department,” said Art Jacobs Captain of the Plymouth Fire Department. “We really enjoy our Police Department Fire Department comradely, so we're there to support them even though they will lose.”

Members of the American Red Cross say that blood only has a shelf life of 42 days, so it's important to hold blood drives to maintain the supply. Members say every donation helps.

They tell us blood supplies in the Indiana and Ohio region are currently stable and sufficient.