April 4th Submarine Birthday Dinner and Tolling Ceremony
Well shipmates, it doesn't appear that things are going to improve anytime soon. And waiting a few more days for the inevitable is useless. Therefore, we are CANCELLING the April 4th Submarine Birthday Dinner and Tolling of the Bell.
Federal and state governments, likely soon to be followed by locals, are recommending against meetings of large groups of people (currently 10 or more). It would not be a surprise if they lowered that number, or mandated cancellation of all meetings regardless of number. They've already closed bars and restaurants to on-site service, and I suspect the restrictions will be passed to fraternal and veteran organizations soon... which would force us to cancel anyway.
I'm sad and surprised to inform you of the passing of our Columbus Base shipmate Sam Templeton. Sad, because we've lost another shipmate. Surprised, because Sam passed on 23 January 2018 and we weren't aware!
It is with a heavy heart that I inform you of the passing of our Columbus Base shipmate Bill Wright. Bill qualified in 1969 aboard USS Henry Clay SSBN-625. He joined USSVI National and Columbus Base in 2017, and was to be inducted into the Holland Club this year at the December ceremony.
It is with a heavy heart that I inform you of the passing of our Columbus Base shipmate Gary Pelini on 4 May 2019. Gary qualified in 1967 aboard USS Entemedor SS-340, and also served aboard USS Dolphin SS-555. He was a Life Member of USSVI National and Columbus Base, and was inducted into the Holland Club in 2017.