Cuts Expected To Silence Tigers Opening Day Flyover Tradition

DETROIT (WWJ/AP) - An Opening Day tradition in Detroit is expected to be silenced this year due to cuts as part of the automatic reduction in the federal budget.

The flyover of military aircraft from Selfridge Air National Guard Base has been scrapped for Friday's Tigers game against the New York Yankees at Comerica Park. The cuts are part of those to flyovers and demonstration flights nationwide.

Capt. Penny Carroll, public affairs chief for Selfridge's 127th Wing, said service members "certainly are disappointed." She said flyovers are seen as a way of being able to support organizations and thank communities for backing the military.

The Tigers say flyovers have taken place most years, weather permitting. Other Michigan events are expected to lose flyovers as well.

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