The South Carolina National Guard has suspended eight Apache helicopter pilots following a low-altitude flyover during a Fourth of July event, a decision that has drawn criticism from state lawmakers who argue the pilots should be commended rather than sanctioned.
The pilots participated in the "Salute from the Shore" event, where video footage of their Apache helicopters flying close to a beach filled with spectators went viral on social media. The South Carolina National Guard stated that the pilots' "flight profile" is under review and described the temporary suspension as a "routine, non-punitive safety measure - not a disciplinary action." The Guard emphasized that the pilots remain in good standing and continue their daily duties on the ground, with safety as its top priority.
However, Rep. Russell Fry (R-SC) has called for the pilots' flying privileges to be immediately restored. "These pilots should be celebrated, not sanctioned," Fry stated on X, formerly Twitter. He formally urged the Guard to drop what he called a "meaningless, bogus investigation" and allow the pilots to return to flight status swiftly. Fry expressed dismay that a "frivolous complaint" led to the suspension of pilots who he believes delivered "one of the best Salute From the Shores in history."
State Rep. Tim McGinnis echoed Fry's concerns, labeling the suspensions "ridiculous." McGinnis suggested in a Facebook post that grounding these pilots could impact the Guard's readiness in emergency situations. He noted that he has requested explanations from the South Carolina National Guard and the governor's office regarding the reason for the suspensions. A source close to one of the pilots told local outlet ABC15 that the airmen were notified of their suspensions immediately after landing, suggesting a complaint may have triggered the review.
This incident draws a parallel to a similar situation earlier in the year where two U.S. Army Apache helicopter crews were temporarily suspended after flying near singer Kid Rock's Tennessee mansion during a training run. Those suspensions were lifted after intervention from Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, who declared, "No punishment. No Investigation. Carry on, patriots."