The Charleston Area Medical Center Nurse Honor Guard performed its first ceremony to honor fellow nurses who passed away in recent years. The ceremony was held Friday, Dec. 3, at the Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center.
The purpose of the nurse honor guard is to pay tribute to nurses at the time of their death by performing the Nightingale Tribute at funeral or memorial services. This service is similar to a military tribute and officially releases nurses from their nursing duties while honoring their dedication to the nursing profession.
“I am inspired by every nurse that commits their life to nursing excellence so they may impact the lives of their patients, family and community members,” said Heidi Edwards, CAMC chief nursing officer. “A final farewell is a small way to say thank you and be able to join with others to honor and appreciate their service and compassion during a beautiful life lived.”
The Nurse Honor Guard will perform tribute ceremonies for CAMC nursing staff and retirees who have passed on and plans expand the program as it grows.
To notify the CAMC Honor Guard of a passing please complete this form.