Johns Hopkins Magazine -- November 1998

NOVEMBER 1998
CONTENTS

RETURN TO
WOMEN OF WAR

H E A L T H A N D M E D I C I N E

Women of War
Dressed to Heal

"The Cadet Nurse wears gray and red because gray symbolizes mercy, serenity, and understanding--red--strength, courage, and inspiration. These six attributes she must have if she is to succeed as a nurse and a woman.

"The sleeve patch sewed high on the left arm is actually a "passport" into the proud profession of nursing. Adopted as their own symbol by the Knights Hospitalers of St. John--the original nursing-fighting order--this eight-pointed white linen insignia was embroidered on the left sleeve.

"[Regarding the cap insignia] Shield and eagle are symbolically American; the fouled anchor connotes U.S. seamen in distress...the caduceus is the staff of Mercury, messenger of the mythological gods as well as the ancient symbol of physicians. Together the anchor and caduceus promise healing to those in the service of their country."

--Excerpted from a U.S. Public Health description of the uniform's significance

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