SOUTH BEND, Ind. – The South Bend Medical Foundation hosted another blood drive honoring fallen officers at the South Bend Police Department on Tuesday.

Police as well as the public were encouraged to donate because the blood donated at this drive will go directly to local patients.

There is a higher than normal need for blood right now because the weather is getting warmer and surgeries are beginning to ramp up again.

An officer with the South Bend Police Department says he’s doing this for his grandfather who served in World War II and is his fallen hero.

“Things like that are important to me,” Officer Keenan Lane said. “Just helping anyone in need that needs it. You know I think everyone in their own way is a hero. Mothers and fathers are heroes to their kids so to me it’s important to be able to donate and hopefully save the lives of those who need it.”