TAMPA Fl, (BLOOM) – Nursing is more than a career — it’s a calling, one that shapes lives, extends beyond the workplace, and creates bonds that last a lifetime. For the Nurse Honor Guard of Tampa Bay, these values of compassion, reverence, and unity take on new meaning as they offer unique tributes to nurses who have dedicated their lives to the profession, even beyond their final days.
On Sept. 14, 2024, the Nurse Honor Guard had the privilege of honoring a remarkable woman, Rosetta Pals, a WWII Army nurse who passed away at the age of 100. The ceremony, held at Espiritu Santo Catholic Church in Safety Harbor, was not only a first for honoring a centenarian but also the first tribute to a WWII nurse by the Tampa Bay chapter.
A Calling That Never Ends
Tricia Scott, President of the Nurse Honor Guard of Tampa Bay, describes nursing as a lifestyle rather than just a profession. “Nurses are always being nurses, even when we aren’t on the job,” she shares. The Nurse Honor Guard was founded on the idea of giving back to those who spend their lives caring for others. “Nurses don’t get positive feedback on a day-to-day basis, so I loved the idea of honoring their career.”
The Nurse Honor Guard, part of the National Nurses Honor Guard Coalition, has over 250 chapters across the country. Tampa Bay’s chapter, founded in 2020, consists of volunteers who are active and retired nurses, including RNs, LPNs, ARNPs, and CRNAs. Tricia took over leadership in January 2023 and has since grown the chapter, spreading the word about the group’s mission to honor nurses and provide comfort to their families.
Honoring the Life and Service of Rosetta Pals
The life of Rosetta Pals, the WWII nurse honored during the September ceremony, exemplified dedication to the nursing profession. After serving in the Army Nurse Corps in 1945, Rosetta worked full-time as a nurse until the age of 75 and continued part-time in doctors’ offices before retiring. Even in retirement, she volunteered at her church, a testament to her lifelong commitment to serving others.
Her family was deeply moved by the ceremony. “Her daughter, the only other nurse in the family, was in tears when we gave her the Nightingale Lamp,” Tricia recalled.
The Nightingale Lamp, a symbol of hope and comfort inspired by Florence Nightingale herself, was a focal point of the tribute. It remained lit throughout the service, symbolizing the light that Rosetta brought to her patients and colleagues. After the final roll call—where the nurse’s name is called three times, each followed by the tolling of a bell—the lamp was presented to her daughter, signifying the passing of the torch.
The family’s appreciation was clear as they praised the ceremony and even requested that donations be made to the Nurse Honor Guard in lieu of flowers.
A Ceremony Steeped in Tradition
The Nurse Honor Guard’s ceremonies are rich in tradition, honoring the history and legacy of the nursing profession. Members don traditional WWII-era nurse uniforms, complete with white caps, white shoes, and blue-and-red capes—a powerful symbol dating back to nurses in the Army Corps. “The red in the cape was to signal people that they were medical, so they did not shoot,” Tricia explains.
During each ceremony, the Honor Guard performs the Nightingale Tribute and Final Call of Duty. After reciting the Nurse’s Prayer and lighting the Nightingale Lamp, a white rose is placed on the casket or next to the urn, symbolizing the nurse’s dedication to their profession. The final roll call releases the nurse from their earthly duties, allowing them to rest after a lifetime of service.
A Growing Legacy
The Nurse Honor Guard of Tampa Bay continues to grow, with plans to expand its presence in the community. Tricia and her advisory board are working to increase visibility, attend local events, and raise awareness of their services, ensuring that more nurses and families know about this heartfelt way to honor those who have dedicated their lives to caring for others.
With another service scheduled for October 10 in New Port Richey and ongoing efforts to establish a website and professionalize their outreach, the Nurse Honor Guard remains committed to its mission.
“We embody the values of compassion, reverence, and unity,” says Tricia. “Our work is a final thank you to nurses, acknowledging their life of service and offering comfort to their families in a meaningful way.”
For more information on the Nurse Honor Guard of Tampa Bay or to request a ceremony, you can contact them via email at Nursehonorguardoftampabay2@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page @NursehonorguardofTB.
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