The Pentagon has lifted the suspension of eight South Carolina Army National Guard pilots who were grounded after flying Apache helicopters along state coastal beaches during a July 4 “Salute from the Shore” celebration.
“We’ll fix this. Carry on, Patriots,” Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on X.
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell followed up with a statement Friday on X confirming that “effective immediately,” the suspension of the pilots was canceled.
State military officials insisted their initial decision was a temporary, nonpunitive measure pending a review of the flight profile.
U.S. Army AH-64E Apache helicopters are …
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“These service members continue to report for their regular daily duties in a nonflying capacity while the review takes place. This standard procedure ensures a fair and objective process for everyone involved,” South Carolina Army Guard officials said in a statement.
A GOP lawmaker in Washington echoed complaints that the suspension was an overreaction to the Apache flyover.
“The South Carolina National Guard needs to drop this review and restore these pilots immediately. Millions of Americans applauded the incredible display during [the Salute from the Shore] flyover while expressing complete admiration for them and appreciation for our country and military,” Rep. Russell Fry, South Carolina Republican, said on social media. “These pilots should be celebrated, not sanctioned.”
Guard officials said pulling a pilot from flight duties during an investigation is a standard safety procedure that protects both aircrews and the public.
“Safety remains our absolute top priority, and we appreciate your continued support for our soldiers as we ensure all flight standards are fully met,” they said in the statement.
In March 2026, Mr. Hegseth intervened when the Army suspended the crews of two Apache helicopters that flew low over the home of musician Kid Rock in Nashville, Tennessee. He lifted the grounding and cancelled any potential punishments for the move.
