The American Red Cross is proud to honor local hero, Sgt. Franz U. Walkup with an American Red Cross blood drive today Sgt. Walkup was born in Germany, but his family moved to Cannon County in 2003. One of nine children, Sgt. Walkup played football alongside his brothers during his time at Cannon County High School. He graduated in 2007.
Tragically, one of Sgt. Walkups brothers was killed by an IED while serving in Iraq. The tragedy inspired Sgt. Walkup to enlist himself in 2009 and fight for our freedom in his brothers honor. During his duty, Sgt. Walkup was shot several times by an Afghan soldier. “I almost bled out,” said Sgt. Walkup. “When I arrived at the hospital, I needed 19 units of blood to keep me alive. If it wasn’t for people who donate blood, I wouldn’t be here today.”
Sgt. Walkup continues to recover at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. He feels honored to know the Cannon County community and surrounding area is rallying around him by giving blood in his honor.
The Cannon County Community Blood drive in honor of Sgt. Franz Walkup is hosted by the Woodbury Lions Club.
The special event will be held at the Lions Club Memorial Building located at the corner of W. Lehman St. & W. Adams Street. from 11A-6P tonight. Everyone is encouraged to come give the gift of life. Make a blood donation today in honor of Franz
