Sequestration claims 'Tattoo' at Wright-Patterson AFB

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB, OHIO (WDTN) - The sequester has claimed another local victim: the Freedom’s Call Tattoo at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

The summer event, set for June 28, was cancelled Thursday, “due to funding limitations associated with the federal budget sequestration,” the base announced.

Even though the event was paid for in large part by sponsors, tax dollars were used to help fund portions of the celebration.

"We simply cannot spend tax dollars on such events when sequestration cuts threaten to ground aircraft and furlough our civilian employees," Col. Cassie Barlow, 88th Air Base Wing commander said.

"The Tattoo was always envisioned as a way to say 'thank you' to the great people of the Miami Valley who are so supportive of our Air Force," said Col. Barlow. "We staged some great programs, but could not have done it without the many community and business sponsors who made monetary and in-kind donations. We say 'thank you' to them for all their support over the years."

The 2012 Tattoo event was cancelled due severe weather.