Is the ASBP the same organization as the American Red Cross?
We are not. The military blood program was begun by President Truman in 1952, and has been its own fully operational, distinct blood program since 1962. After the Korean War, the ASBP took over collecting, processing, and transporting blood products for the military community from the American Red Cross. The ASBP is one of four organizations that ensure this nation has a safe, potent blood supply. We work closely with all civilian blood agencies; American Red Cross, America's Blood Centers, Blood Centers of America and other local hospital organizations in times of need. However, the ASBP is a Department of Defense program, supporting the military community first and foremost.