Release Number: 020113

2/15/2013 - LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz.  -- Today Luke AFB officials regretfully announce that Luke's 2013 Open House and Air Show, "Storm on the Horizon," originally scheduled for Mar 16-17, is canceled.

"While I value the importance of this event to both the Air Force and our local community, given the budgetary pressures and expected repercussions if sequestration goes into effect, we need to cancel this year's Luke Days. I cannot in good conscience spend some of our limited resources to host an Open House, while the Defense Department considers potential civilian furloughs," said Brig. Gen. Michael Rothstein, 56th Fighter Wing commander.

Luke is taking additional steps to continue to be good financial stewards of tax payer dollars. This includes working to gain efficiencies, deferring non-mission critical repairs and supply buys, significantly reducing flying not directly related to pilot training, as well as reducing costs by curtailing non-mission critical services.

"I have been overwhelmed by the phenomenal community support shown to Luke in the short time I've been here. That support for our base is second to none, and made canceling our Open House a very hard decision for me. I believe it's important for Luke to open our gates to the public to enhance awareness of Air Force missions and military capabilities as well as the skills and professionalism of its people. I hope to continue our strong community alliance and resume special events like the Open House as soon as possible," said Rothstein.

No dates for future Open Houses have been set.

Media outlets looking for more information can contact 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs at (623) 856-6011.

 Link to Luke Website...