title: Traditions & ceremonies in EMS. Passing traditions from one generation to the next.
abstract: Traditions and ceremonies don't just happen on their own--they require vision and effort. When honor guard services are required, it is too late to think about getting one organized. Advance preparation and training are necessary if a ceremonial unit is to accomplish its mission in a manner that brings credit to the organization. A wise EMS leader will scan the environment and seek out opportunities to develop the capabilities, nurture traditions and arrange ceremonies that will contribute to organizational morale and support the achievement of the organization's mission.
authors.affiliation: Wake County EMS, North Carolina, USA.
authors.forename: Skip
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Kirkwood
mesh_terms: D000846:Anniversaries and Special Events; D001363:Awards and Prizes; D002562:Ceremonial Behavior; D004632:Emergency Medical Services / Q000458:organization & administration; D007857:Leadership; D014481:United States