North Ohio Nurse Honor Guard promotes tribute services to recognize nurses' lifetime contributions

During the City Council meeting in Clyde, Ohio, on June 17, 2025, members of the North Ohio Lake Erie Nurse Honor Guard presented their mission to honor nurses who have dedicated their lives to healthcare. Founded in 2024, the organization spans five counties—Erie, Huron, Ottawa, Seneca, and Sandusky—and aims to ensure that nurses receive recognition at the end of their lives through ceremonial tributes.

Vicky Mead, a representative of the Honor Guard, emphasized the importance of acknowledging nurses' contributions, stating that the organization provides comfort to families during a nurse's funeral service. The tribute, which lasts about ten minutes, includes personal stories about the deceased nurse's career and achievements, creating a meaningful connection for loved ones.

The Honor Guard is actively seeking to expand its membership to better serve the five counties, aiming to establish a presence in each area to reduce travel challenges for members. Currently, the group consists of approximately 28 to 30 volunteers and has conducted around 25 tributes since its inception.

Susan Luke, another member, detailed the tribute's elements, including the symbolic Nightingale lamp and the reading of the deceased nurse's name, which is accompanied by chimes to signify their release from nursing duties. The organization is also exploring the possibility of providing living tributes for nurses nearing the end of their lives, further enhancing their commitment to honoring the nursing profession.

The Nurse Honor Guard is part of a national movement, with over 250 similar organizations across the United States, reflecting a growing recognition of the vital role nurses play in healthcare. The Clyde community is encouraged to support this initiative by spreading the word and considering membership in the Honor Guard.