Members of Emporia’s recently-formed Division of Nurses Honor Guard joined KVOE’s Morning Show this week to detail the new venture.
Organizer Cathy Runge says nursing is “a calling, not just a career” — and with that in mind, she and others began researching the honor guard idea last year.
Runge reached out to representatives in Wichita, and the idea grew from there.
The Emporia honor guard ceremony is based on the Nightingale Tribute, which starts with a brief overview of a nurse’s career and accomplishments, a reading to highlight the nurse’s dedication and a white rose placed with the casket or urn. Organizer Kathy Hamman:
The ceremony ends with a bell calling for a response from the nurse. Once the nurse does not respond, Hamman says the nurse is officially relieved of her duties.
Organizer Donna Spain is pleased the honor guard is now available.
Tuesday’s interview came on National Nurses Day in the middle of National Nurses Week.
People interested in learning more about the Emporia Division of Nurses Honor Guard can call 620-341-3130 or stop by local funeral homes.
