Our media partner, Eye on South Florida, is featuring several Fleet Week Port Everglades events this week. Simply point your web browser to EyeOnSouthFlorida.com to join in on the festivities as we honor our men and women in uniform:

• Opening Reception – WATCH NOW
• Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation Take a Hero Fishing Tournament
• Galley Wars
• Legion of Honor Ceremony and Dignitary Reception

The Navy informed Broward Navy Days, Inc. on April 9 that Humana Military Fleet Week Port Everglades cannot be supported with Navy vessels this year. This decision was not an easy one for the Navy and they waited as long as they could, in the hope the budget constraints associated with sequestration would change and enable them to participate. 

The Secretary of Defense has prescribed that the only community outreach possible under the current budget environment must focus on local assets and at no cost to the government; therefore, Fleet Week Port Everglades has refocused its emphasis on recognizing the important contributions of the United States Southern Command and Coast Guard Seventh District, both based in South Florida. 

"Along with our sponsors, volunteers, Navy Leagues, local organizations and partners, Broward Navy Days has worked this past year in preparation for Fleet Week 2013," said Mary Anne Gray, executive director. "Our local community was prepared to welcome the visiting military to South Florida with open arms. We will continue to host a series of recreational, vocational and community service activities for these local units and affirm the mission of our organization." 

While many traditional Fleet Week events, including ship tours, have been cancelled, many others WILL be held April 29-May 6. These will include Republic Services Golf Classic, Salute to Veterans, Miami Marlins game, Galley Wars, Plywood Regatta and more. An updated schedule of events can be found at www.BrowardNavyDaysInc.org.