MCMH Nurses Honor Guard Formed to Recognize Service of Area Nurses

Montgomery County Memorial Hospital and Clinics has formed a new Nurses Honor Guard to recognize nurses for their years of service and dedication to the profession.

Amy Rydberg, a clinical analyst and registered nurse at MCMH, said the group is made up of active and retired nurses who attend funeral services for past nurses. The ceremony includes readings, a poem, the Nightingale Pledge and a final call of duty, similar to traditions used by military, EMT and law enforcement honor guards.

Rydberg said the local group currently has 10 members and is preparing to begin offering services. Members have purchased capes, white scrubs and traditional nursing hats as part of the group’s dress code. The MCMH Auxiliary also provided a donation to help the group get started.

The Nurses Honor Guard is available to honor doctors of nursing practice, advanced practice nurses, registered nurses and licensed practical nurses. The group can also provide a living tribute for a nurse who is on hospice or nearing the end of life, allowing that individual to receive the recognition personally.

Rydberg said the group plans to work with funeral homes, nursing homes, hospice centers, churches and clergy so families know the service is available. The MCMH Nurses Honor Guard is based in Montgomery County but may also be able to serve surrounding counties that do not currently have an honor guard, including Mills, Fremont and Page counties, depending on member availability.

To request a tribute or learn more about joining the group, call 712-623-7284 or email mcmh_nhg@mcmh.org.