Tucson students were proud to learn their instructor Ms. Larson is part of the Southern Arizona Nurse Honor Guard, when she wore her uniform to campus after attending a service. This special organization attends funerals of nurses who have passed on. The Nurse Honor Guards wear the traditional white nurse uniform with cap and cape and stand guard at the nurse's casket or provide a presence at the visitation. During the service, they recite the Nightingale Tribute and present the Florence Nightingale lamp to the family. At the end of the service, they place a white rose on the nurse's casket to signify the nurse's devotion to their profession.

In addition to being a member, Ms. Larson is also the founder and President of the Southern Arizona Nurse Honor Guard. When asked what inspired her to do this, she said, “The Nurse Honor Guard is a rewarding opportunity to give back to my profession by serving families of those who have lost a nurse loved one. For so much of their careers, and lives in general, nurses are constantly giving themselves to others and this offers us the opportunity to recognize that sacrifice and honor the care they gave to their fellow humans.”

Thank you Ms. Larson and Nurse Honor Guards for the special tributes you provide to nurses and their legacy in the profession.