Pella Regional Health Center recently implemented a Hero’s Final Salute program to honor veterans who pass away in the hospital and first responders who have died in the line of duty.

When a veteran or first responder passes away at Pella Regional, the team caring for the patient coordinates with the family, funeral home and members of the American Legion Post 89 to provide a tribute for that person. A member of the American Legion Post 89 or another veteran, places an American flag over the deceased, and a brief tribute is spoken. The body is then escorted through the hospital to a waiting transport vehicle by the Legion representative. Hospital staff on duty also participate in the salute standing at attention in the hallway as the deceased passes by.

“The final salute is the most touching tribute we can give a veteran and their family,” said Diana Crook, RN, Nursing Supervisor at Pella Regional. “We are humbled to honor those who have served for our country. The program has been very much appreciated by the families whose loved ones have been honored.”

Marion County Legion Commander Don DeKock and Diana Crook, RN, CEN worked together to create the workflow and bring this program to the hospital. Pella Regional is one of three hospitals in the state of Iowa to provide the Final Salute and is currently the only non-VA hospital to do so.