A group of volunteer nurses who attend the funeral or memorial service of a nurse who has passed, dressed in the traditional white uniform complete with cap and cape. They process to the front of the room carrying a lit lamp symbolizing the one carried by nurses that tended to soldiers back in the 1800s. As they gather at the front of the room, they flank the casket or urn and begin a short, 5 to 10 minute, ceremony that includes the placement of a white rose to honor them for being their colleague. They then ask any nurses present to stand as they do a final roll call. The name of the nurse is called and asked to report for duty. A chime is rung, after the nurse’s name is called, and they call the nurse to duty three times. After no response, they say the name and say “we officially release you from your nursing duties.” The lamp is extinguished and given to the family with quiet words of condolence.

If your loved one was a nurse and you would like the honor guard present at their service, notify your funeral director so they can notify the proper contact person.