WAFB celebrates National Nurses Week

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. Dianne Stroble
  • 509th Medical Group, chief nurse
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  National Nurses Week is celebrated at the same time every year to commemorate a pioneer of modern nursing: Florence Nightingale. It begins on May 6 and ends on May 12, which is Nightingale’s birthday. Nightingale was born in 1820 and died in 1910 at the age of 90.

Nightingale was known as the "lady with the lamp." She carried a light with her when she made her night rounds to care for the wounded during the Crimean War (1853-1856), when the Russian Empire lost to an alliance of the Ottoman Empire, France, Britain and Sardinia. Her efforts and passion for nursing helped decrease the death count and bring comfort to the wounded during the war.

Additionally, her writings "Notes on Matters Affecting the Health, Efficiency and Hospital Administration of the British Army" profoundly sparked health care reform.

This week, the 509th and 131st Medical Groups nurses and technicians participated in activities to celebrate National Nurses Week, as well as reflected on how they positively influence health care for all they serve.

Their dedication and passion ensures our Airmen and their families receive trusted care.