The American Legion JR Lanier Post 27 held its first blood drive July 29.

Post 27 teamed with NAPA Richmond Hill Auto Care, and The Blood Connection to conduct the drive.

The Blood Connections Seth DaSilva said, “Post 27s donors contributed enough blood to save 48 lives today and we are looking forward to working with them again.”

The first donor of the day was Post 27 Commander Dan Awtrey.

“I want to thank Richmond Hill Auto Care for allowing us the use of his facility and parking area for this event,” Awtrey said. “It makes all the difference when you have sunshine, humidity, and heavy rain showers to boot. We are all pleased at the turn out for my first community event as Commander. It has been a great day.”

Senior Vice-commander Adam Langley organized the effort. He remarked “We had a good turnout from the Legion, our families, the community, and our fellow Veterans with the VFW7331. So proud to be a part of a community like Richmond Hill that shows up to give. We are already beginning the planning process for our next one” Post 27 is a non-profit all volunteer veterans’ group. Its members have all served during war time eras and many are combat veterans. In its 25 years the Post has had Children and Youth programs as its most notable focus with Scholarship and Boys State leading the way, The Post also does Veteran Outreach and Homeless support and did its first community food drive this spring. If you are a veteran and would like to know more about American Legion Programs or would like to join, you can find out more at www.legion.org