It is with a very heavy heart that I inform you that our Columbus Base shipmate and friend Jim Tolson departed on Eternal Patrol this morning.
Jim joined the United States Navy in 1967. He qualified in 1971 aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt SSBN-600, and also served aboard the submarine tender USS Sperry AS-12. Jim spent his Naval career as an Electronics Technician, advancing to the rating of ET1(SS) before being discharged in 1976.
Jim joined USSVI National and Columbus Base in 2006 and became a Life Member of both in 2013. During his 14 years with Columbus Base, he served 2 terms as Base Commander, and 2 terms as Vice-Commander. He also served as Membership Chairman and Base records keeper. In recognition of their service to Columbus Base, Jim and Karla Tolson were jointly elected Columbus Base Shipmates Of The Year in 2011.
In addition to his USSVI memberships, Jim was also a member of American Legion Don Gentile Post #532, AMVETS Post #89, VFW Post #4931, SSBN 598 Class Joint Reunion.
More information, including Jim's obituary and memorial, will be shared as soon as available. As is our custom, Columbus Base will donate $100.00 to the USSVI Scholarship Fund in Jim's memory.
Please keep Jim's wife Karla, and the Tolson family, in your thoughts and prayers.
Fair winds and following seas, shipmate
Sailor, Rest Your Oar.
Tim Barker,
Commander, Columbus Base