2018 Tolling the Boats Ceremony

Seattle USSVI Base held our annual Tolling the Boats ceremony on August 18, 2018 at the Kirkland Marina Park Pavilion.

Seattle USSVI Base float at the Kirkland pavilion

The sign for the Tolling ceremony

The Tolling the Boats Ceremony is a memorial service to honor our lost submarine brothers who made the supreme sacrifice while performing their duties with valor, integrity, and courage. This ceremony is a fundamental part our creed as members of U.S. Submarine Veterans, "To perpetuate the memory of our shipmates who gave their lives in pursuit of their duties while serving their country."

It was a pleasant day for the ceremony. The weather was clear and warm with a light breeze off Lake Washington. As usual, the Seattle Base float drew the attention of people in the park and several stopped by to ask questions.

Members of the Seattle USSVI Base helped set up for the ceremony. Additionally, the Honor Guard from VFW Post 2995 was on hand to provide honors for the ceremony.

Seattle Base Commander Ric Hedman kicked off the ceremony, welcoming everyone, providing opening remarks, and explaining why we have the ceremony. He then introduced our World War II veterans and recognized the wives and widows of submariners.

Base Commander Ric Hedman opening the ceremony

Recognizing our World War II veterans

We then moved on to reading the names of the lost U.S. Navy submarines and ringing two bells. One for the submarine and one for the crew.

Larry reading from the list of lost boats

Ric reading from the list of lost boats

Ralph ringing the bell for each lost boat and crew

When the reading was complete, World War II submarine veteran Ralph Sterley laid the memorial wreath to honor all the lost submariners and the VFW Honor Guard provided a gun salute and played Taps.

Placing the memorial wreath

VFW rifle salute

Four roses, for the Seattle Base members that departed on Eternal Patrol since the last Tolling Ceremony, and the wreath all lost submariners

Thanks to Kami for providing the music

After the ceremony, cake was served, and we had a little social time before cleaning up the pavilion.

Diane, Judy, and Lynda help serve the cake

Here are a few photos of people at the ceremony (sorry we didn't get everyone, there was a minor camera issue).

World War II veteran Buell and Gloria

World War II veteran Ralph and Lois

Ric with World War II veteran Paul

Base members Andrea and Cliff

Steve and Lynda

Bill and Diane

That concluded our ceremony for another year. Thanks to all that attended. Special thanks to Lois Mezek and all those who helped this year's Tolling the Boats ceremony a success.