The week of January 24th – 30th was National CRNA Week. CRNA stands for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthestist. These are nurses who have a masters degree or higher and have a critical care background on top of 3-10 years of experience as a registered nurse. A CRNA is widely considered to be one of the most difficult specialties a nurse can achieve.

Recently Veterans Funeral Care performed a graveside service with military honors for a Col. Mildred Imogene Butler Ret. USAF. She was a retired CRNA who spent 26 years in the military, a career which covered World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. As a young nurse, “Gene” as she was called by her friends found herself stationed off of the coast of Normandy three days after the allied invasion providing medical care to injured soldiers.

Gene’s legacy is kept alive in part by the Col. Mildred Imogene Butler Nursing Scholarship which was created in her honor and provides financial help for nursing students at St. Petersburg College in Pinellas Park, Florida. She was also a very proud and active member of the Society of Air Force Nurses who also provided honors for Gene at her memorial service at Bay Pines National Cemetery.

Our very own Client Services Manager, Jimmy Rudolph, RN, was among the many nurses supporting Col. Mildred Imogene Butler during the Nightingale Tribute as part of her memorial service. Nightingale Tributes are a special way to remember any Registered Nurse and their years of service. A close friend or college typically shares a summary of the nurse’s career and crowning moments. They then place a white rose with the nurse to symbolize honor and appreciation.

Among Col. Butler’s decorations include the European African Middle Eastern Theater Medal, American Theater Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal, Korean Service Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal.

Every veteran who comes through our doors is unique. They have made their own sacrifices and achievements. We take the time to help you recognize their legacy. Making it special and memorable is what we’re all about.