SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- The 2013 Wings Over Wayne Open House and Air Show, scheduled for May 18-19, has been cancelled.
Driven by the dual threat of operating under a continuing resolution and potential sequestration, U.S. Air Force leadership at all levels are proactively implementing near-term actions to minimize impacts to our people while protecting warrior programs and operational readiness.
"Our decision to cease planning for the 2013 air show comes after careful review and consideration of the fiscal challenges the Air Force, the Department of Defense and our nation face," said Col. Jeannie Leavitt, 4th Fighter Wing commander. "We're taking prudent measures and doing our best to mitigate our budget risks and align available resources with current and emerging operational requirements. Remaining as mission-ready as possible and preserving our combat capability is our imperative and we're prioritizing spending to ensure this priority is met."Although the dollar savings initially is low, cancelling the air show enables the wing to reallocate resources to combat-readiness training - which ensures our mission of excelling as stewards of all Air Force resources in service to the American people, while... "Providing Dominant Strike Eagle Airpower...Anytime, Anyplace."
For more than 55 years, Seymour Johnson Air Force Base has enjoyed unparalleled community support from Wayne County, Goldsboro and the surrounding communities, which made this decision difficult. The 4th Fighter Wing recognizes, respects and appreciates partnerships with the local community and looks forward to continuing those valuable relationships with opportunities and events throughout the year.
"Team Seymour would like to thank our Service members, their families, the community and the supporters of the Wings Over Wayne Open House and Air Show for their continued support during these trying fiscal times," Leavitt said. "Without your support, we could not continue to be a mission ready F-15E wing and part of the world's most capable Air Force."
No dates for future Wings Over Wayne have been set.
For more information, call the 4th FW Public Affairs office at (919) 722-0027.