SF Fleet Week US military events, including Blue Angels, may be in jeopardy with government shutdown
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Fleet Week is set to begin in San Francisco this Sunday, but the looming government shutdown could have a major impact on one of the city's biggest events. If a funding bill isn't passed by midnight eastern time, it could keep military ships docked and the famous Blue Angels grounded.
UPDATE: Federal government shutdown begins as nation faces new period of uncertainty
The Navy's Blue Angels, always the stars of the San Francisco Fleet Week airshow, dazzling the crowds every October. But a possible Federal government shutdown, could keep the Angels grounded and put this year's Fleet Week events in Jeopardy. Mayor Daniel Lurie is watching the situation closely.
"We're monitoring, we're not sure what that would mean for Fleet Week, obviously we're excited about Fleet Week, it's always a great weekend here in San Francisco, we honor the men and women of our military, keep you posted," said Lurie.
If the government can't pass a spending package by midnight eastern time, Fleet Week organizers will be forced to make backup plans.
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In a statement, organizers say, 'If a Government shut down takes effect, U.S. Military participation- including ships, aircraft and sailors- would be paused.'
The weeklong event would likely be reduced to non-U.S. Military participants.
Many say a scaled back Fleet Week would be a real bummer - it would mean no military ship tours for the public at Pier 30 and 32, gates would be closed. And no Marines or Army Bands playing anywhere in the city.
No parade of ships through the Golden Gate either with most of the airshow - scratched.
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"It's huge for us every year, it's one of our biggest weeks," said Allan Joyce.
Joyce is bartender at the Hi Dive near Pier 30. He says a smaller SF Fleet Week would be bad.
"A big drop in business, a big hit. We just lost the Giants with no playoffs so to double down would be huge," Joyce added.
The Navy and Marine Corps are hoping to save Fleet Week, saying in a joint statement, 'If the government does shut down but there is a swift resolution, we will consider the circumstances and timing to determine how we might salvage military participation in San Francisco Fleet Week.'
The Navy Fleet is currently still in San Diego scheduled to depart for San Francisco by the end of the week.
