After 25 years, Fleet Week will not not happen this Memorial Day weekend, officials announced Monday.
Citing Department of Defense policy, Fleet Week’s public affairs director Beth Baker stated on the event’s Facebook page that no armed force branch could participate in any community event that incurred government costs.
“We must, and will, follow that direction … which includes Fleet Week New York,” she said.
In this New York tradition since 1984, U.S. Navy ships sailed up the Hudson River and docked in the harbor for the public to visit during the week of Memorial Day.
Civilians could also interact with visiting sailors and marines, many who could be spotted in their uniforms exploring the city.
Cuts from the sequester also cancelled this year’s “Blue Angels” show by U.S. Navy aircraft.
