A Message From the Chief Nurse

Nurses,

During this season we celebrate a time to give thanks. We give thanks for our freedom, our families and one of our richest blessings----our nurses.

For it is our nurses who work to care for and improve the health of our nation.

For all the times that you forget your fatigue and give rest to others;

For all the times you reach out to touch those who feel forgotten;

For all the times you manage demanding workloads and responsibilities;

For all the times you insist on excellence and champion the assurance of safety;

For all the times you sacrifice your comfort and dare to care for others;

For all the times that we forget to tell you how important you are and how much our country needs you — THANK YOU!!!!!.

On behalf of the Office of the Surgeon General I wish you and your families a very special Thanksgiving Season. We are grateful for the gift of service that you give each day.

Carol A. Romano PhD, RN, FAAN
Assistant Surgeon General
Chief Nurse Officer, US Public Health Service