Blame it on the sequester, the Navy said. Military spending cuts have forced the cancellation of a New York City annual institution, Fleet Week, when some of America’s largest warships visit the harbor for public viewing.
The Navy said mandated military cuts forced it to cancel Fleet Week affairs all across the country — but New York’s is certainly the largest, with costs that range between $7 million and $10 million, United Press International reported. The loss of revenue to the city, meanwhile, is significant.
Between the sailors who flood the city, and the businesses that benefit, the Big Apple stands to lose about $20 million in projected weekly revenues, the Virginian-Pilot reported.
Fleet Week in New York started in 1982, UPI reported. It’s since become an iconic affair — with even late-night host David Letterman getting in on the fun. He usually taps the Navy for sailors to deliver his “Top 10 List” during the festive week.
One Navy spokesman said the event could return in 2014 to New York, UPI reported.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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