“Due to fiscal constraints, fewer vendors, less sponsorships, and declining participation since 2014, I made the incredibly difficult decision to cancel the on-base Independence Day celebration this year,” said Col. Matthew McKinney, commanding officer, Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany. McKinney said in 2013, the event was cancelled due to federal budget cuts and again in 2020 due to COVID. “The cost to host this event has continued to increase exponentially over the past several years and I had to make a tough call on how to best be a steward of our taxpayers’ resources,” he continued. “We encourage our active duty and civilian personnel to enjoy the fireworks celebration in the local community who so generously supports our military.”