Stamford police held a blood drive today to honor the lives of officers killed in the line of duty across the nation.

Even with more COVID-restrictions being lifted, the American Red Cross says blood donations are down.

The community room inside the Stamford Police Department was transformed into a blood drive center today.

Officers rolled up their sleeves for their brothers and sisters across the country who made the ultimate sacrifice. A total of 126 police officers have been killed this year in the line of duty.

There have been 24 officer deaths related to automobile accidents and 23 from gunfire.

Officers were greeted with a show of support on the way in by local businesses such as High Ridge Nursery, which donated treats too.

The drive comes at a time when the American Red Cross says its blood bank supply is low.

The Stamford Police Association is hoping for 100 pints of blood to save 300 lives.

Officers across Fairfield County also took part, including Stamford's police chief.