NAVAL MAGAZINE INDIAN ISLAND — The Navy has canceled its summer community Deer Run fun run this year at Naval Magazine Indian Island because of federal cuts.
“We put a lot of thought into this decision and tried to find a way to make Deer Run happen, but unfortunately, we will not be able to host Deer Run this year,” said Cmdr. Michael Yesunas, commanding officer of Naval Magazine Indian Island.
Budget shortfalls due to sequestration have forced the Navy and other military services to cut back on formal community outreach programs in 2013, including Fleet Weeks and Blue Angels air shows.
Revived in 2011 as a run through part of Indian Island’s forests, the Deer Run was held to provide the public with a chance to visit the base and spend some time outdoors during the summer with friends and family.
Last year, about 200 people participated in Deer Run on June 30.
It is uncertain at this time whether the Navy will be able to host the holiday-themed fun run Rain Deer Run this winter.
“Everyone at Indian Island appreciates all of the support we receive from the community, so we hope we are able to host Deer Run again in the future,” Yesunas said.
