Monroe, Ga. (May 8, 2025) – Piedmont Walton Hospital is proud to recognize the dedicated service of the Nurse Honor Guard of Greater Walton County and its nurses who participated in a historic ceremony at the Georgia State Capitol on May 6, 2025. Ninety nurses from across the state, including representatives from Walton County, gathered as part of the Georgia Nurse Honor Guard to receive a special Commendation from Governor Brian Kemp.

The Georgia Nurse Honor Guard, founded in January 2024, is composed of 14 local chapters whose members are licensed nurses who volunteer their time to honor fellow nurses at the end of life through the Nightingale Tribute and Final Call of Duty ceremonies. These solemn tributes, modeled after military honors, reflect the deep respect and gratitude owed to nurses who have dedicated their lives to caring for others.

“We are incredibly proud of our Piedmont Walton nurses who serve with the Georgia Nurse Honor Guard and Nurse Honor Guard of Greater Walton County,” said Stevanie Reynolds, chief nursing officer of Piedmont Walton Hospital. “Their commitment to honoring the legacy of their colleagues speaks volumes about their compassion and integrity beyond patient care.”

The ceremony at the capital marked the first time in Georgia’s history that the Georgia Nurse Honor Guard has been formally recognized at the state level. Governor Kemp not only honored the Honor Guards’ service but also officially declared May 12 as Georgia Nurse Honor Guard Day.

The selection of May 12 as Georgia Nurse Honor Guard Day underscores the enduring influence of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, and the values she championed — compassion, service, and dedication.

Piedmont Walton’s Nurse Honor Guard will hold a special ceremony on Monday, May 12, in the hospital’s main lobby to honor nurses locally and across the county.