BEAUFORT, SC (WTOC) -
The Blue Angels said they will not be a part of this year's air show in Beaufort due to automatic spending cuts, according to a post on their Facebook page.
Folks in the Lowcountry were shocked by the news.
"I think it really stinks. I've been to the air show several times and my kids love it," said Mike Garrison, Beaufort resident. "It was a fun experience."
"I will miss them, but I understand that we're short bucks here for some reason or another," said John Hayes, veteran. "It's pretty upsetting.
The Marine Corps Air Station in Beaufort said the show is still going to happen, and all of the other performers will be there.
But, Garrison, Hayes and everyone else WTOC spoke with on Tuesday said the same thing, the Blue Angels makes the show.
The air show usually brings a lot of business to the Hilton Garden Inn in Beaufort, but employees say this year won't be the same with the Blue Angels out of the show.
"I think this will have an impact on our hotel occupancy because people come to see the Blue Angels," said Tara Anderson, General Manager of the Hilton Garden Inn.
The hotel is currently sold out for the weekend of the show. Anderson says once word gets out that the Angels won't be there, there's a good chance guests will call and cancel.
"That's why I think it's important to let the guest know that we still have a show going on and that air show is still amazing, with or without the Blue Angels."
The Blue Angels also canceled their performance for the Vidalia Air Show in Georgia.
The Beaufort Air Show will take place April 26 through April 28.
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