The History of the ASBP

In 1952 President Harry Truman ordered the creation of the Armed Services Blood Program after it was noted that U.S. civilian blood agencies were unable to handle the amount of blood needed during the Korean War. The ASBP became fully functional in 1962. This included the collection, processing and transportation of blood products for the military. By the time the Vietnam War started, the ASBP was a distinct program in the Department of Defense and ready to support the U.S. Military's blood product needs.

​

The ASBP is the official blood program of the U.S. Military and is not affiliated with any other civilian collection agencies. However, we are one of four organizations that ensures our nation has a safe, potent blood supply and we work together in times of need,

​

The only way to know that your blood donation is going to the military community, directly supporting our service members on the battlefield, is to donate with the ASBP.

​

The ASBP is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration guidelines to maintain the safety and quality of blood products.  We are held to the same standards and requirements as civilian collection agencies, and along with them, receive accreditation by the Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies (AABB), a not for profit international transfusion medicine association.