Another popular event falls victim to Congressional budget impasse

The Rhode Island Guard has cancelled Leapfest due to sequestration restrictions.

[RING News release] Due to the policies and directives under the current sequestration, Rhode Island National Guard officials regretfully announced that the 2013 Leapfest, the Annual International Static Line Parachute Competition scheduled for August in West Kingston has been canceled today.

“Under the current guidelines of sequestration outlined by the Department of Defense, all scheduled military demonstrations, including jump teams are prohibited from performing,” said Major General Kevin McBride, Adjutant General and Commanding General of the Rhode Island National Guard.

The Rhode Island Army National Guard has been proud to host the premier competitive world-wide airborne jump team event but difficult fiscal challenges required us to prioritize our training and plans," said Col. William Conway, commander of the 56th Troop Command, Rhode Island Army National Guard.

“The Rhode Island National Guard is proud of its tradition, conducting the premier jump demonstration for the airborne community for 30 years,” McBride said. “The event has always strengthened our partnership within the international airborne community fostering relations for future operations.  I want to thank all who have supported this event, planned and executed by the professionals of the 56th Troop Command.  It is our intent to plan and prepare for the Leapfest in 2014.”