Blood drive set to honor former Wilmington fire chief

In memory of an avid blood donor, the Blood Bank of Delmarva and the City of Wilmington will host a Hero Blood Drive to honor former Wilmington Fire Chief James Ford.

Chief Ford, who was a part of the Wilmington Fire Department for 30 years, lost his battle with cancer this year.  However, he remained active in the community despite his illness even after he retired from the fire department to join the Riverfront Development Corporation.

“He was a loving father and husband and a truly selfless individual who held the best interest of others in his heart,” said his son, Tom Ford. “He donated blood, not because he thought it made him a hero, but because he thought it was the right thing to do.”

“Chief Ford has left a legacy of honor, integrity and service to Wilmington,” said Mayor Baker. “He touched the lives of everyone who knew him, and through his frequent blood donations he touched the lives of so many that he never even met. This Hero Drive is a way to honor his dedication and commitment to blood donation and our community.”

The Hero Blood Drive will be from September 6 through September 14 and people can call 1-888-8-BLOOD-8 for a complete list of blood donation sites.