The Southwest Virginia Council of Nurse Practitioners has conducted the inaugural SWVA Honor Guard tribute at Gilliam’s Funeral Home in Big Stone Gap, Virginia. On 1/1/2025-The SWVA Honor Guard paid a heartfelt tribute with the first ceremony led by two of the founding members, Drs. Christine Mullins and Rebecca Garrett.

Mullins said. “Conducting the Honor Guard tribute is one of the most honorable and memorable ceremonies I have ever participated in. There are honor guards for the military, masons, police, and firefighters. Now nurses can also be honored in Southwest Virginia with recognition of their profound service and impact throughout their careers.”

The SWVA Honor Guard has established a website that was donated by The Health Wagon and created by Christine Mullins. The website allows volunteers to share their contact information, and the Guard has recruited 31 volunteers representing nine counties in Virginia. The website provides information on conducting the ceremony, the supplies needed and how to obtain them, the Mission, Values, FAQ, Testimonials, a Media Gallery, and contact information.

The Southwest Region–VCNP is also selling raffle tickets for $5 each for an Eko brand electronic stethoscope (valued at $400) to help fund SWVA Honor Guard endeavors. The group has also created a Facebook page and private chat for members to communicate. The council’s next steps are to acquire more honor guard capes, caps, triangles, lanterns, and service announcements for funeral homes to spread the word to families throughout the region.