National Nurses Honor Guard Coalition

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Hi Nurse Beth,

I recently had a very sweet nurse friend pass away suddenly and have to share with you a special part of her funeral service. The National Nurses Honor Guard Coalition attended and most of my nurse friends and I had not heard of it before. Have you heard of them? They did a small part in the service that beautifully honored her life and career as a nurse. They wore traditional white uniforms with capes and hats. A small group of nurses that were the honor guard lit a candle, read the poem "Remembering a Nurse", read the Nightingale Tribute, and talked briefly about her nursing career. "Was there" was read by the nurses in attendance, the Nightingale candle was put out and given to her family. It really was touching, being a nurse is such a big part of who my friend was and as nurses we all feel this way. Please help me share this free service, all nurses deserve this honor. Thank you.

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4 Answers

Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Thank you for sharing.

I'm deeply sorry for your loss. Your friend sounds like an incredible nurse and person, and it's lovely to hear that she was honored meaningfully.

The National Nurses Honor Guard Coalition performs a beautiful and heartfelt short ceremony. Nurses dressed in traditional white uniforms, caps, and red-lined capes serve to honor nurses who have passed away. Their presence at funerals is a powerful testament to nurses' impact and dedication in their communities and healthcare.

To share this service with more nurses and their families, here are some steps you can take:

  • Social media. Share your experience and information about the National Nurses Honor Guard Coalition on social media platforms. Include photos and links to the organization's website or contact details if appropriate.
  • Nursing associations and organizations. Contact local and national nursing associations, such as the American Nurses Association (ANA) or state nursing associations, and ask if they can share information about the National Nurses Honor Guard Coalition with their members.
  • Hospitals and healthcare facilities. Inform hospital administrators and nursing directors about this service. They can include this information in newsletters, staff meetings, or intranet.
  • Funeral homes. Contact local funeral homes and inform them about the National Nurses Honor Guard Coalition. They can offer this option to families who have lost a nurse.
  • Community events and conferences. If you attend or are involved in nursing conferences or community events, consider setting up a booth or giving a brief presentation about the honor guard service.
  • Nursing schools. Student nurses and faculty should know about this. Share this information with nursing schools and programs. They can educate their students about this honor and how it reflects the lifelong commitment and impact of a nursing career.

By spreading the word, you can help ensure that more nurses receive the honor and recognition they deserve for their dedication and service. Thank you for sharing this moving tribute and helping to honor the legacy of nurses everywhere.

For more information, visit the National Nurses Honor Guard Coalition Facebook page (www.facebook.com/nationalnursehonorguard).

Thank you, and best wishes,

Nurse Beth 

Specializes in Vents, Telemetry, Home Care, Home infusion.

How have I never heard of this organization!  

What a lovely way for us old school nurses to be honored --will have to see if in PA as semi-retired been looking into org to support.  No cape but sure there is a pattern available to make + need get white uniform pantsuit skipping the dam white pantyhose. 1982 Cap was last starched 10 years ago, pristine stored in bottom dresser drawer.  I have my MIL lamp to being to event.   Will tell my sons I'd like to be honored this way when my time comes --just 3 more years to hit 50 in profession.

Thanks for sharing ---will spread the word.

Article: Nurse Honor Guards Pay Tribute At Nurse Funerals Nationwide

Specializes in 21 years in Med/ Surg.

Thanks for posting my question and giving more information on Nurse Honor Guard, Nurse Beth! It says anonymous but it's from me. To her readers, Nurse Beth used to work at the hospital I am at in Bakersfield, CA and was an amazing mentor. Always approachable and kind to all. ❤️

Thank you,

Sarah Owens  

As a dude, I can't really relate, but that is actually pretty cool. 

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