Pentagon lifts suspension of SC Guard Apache pilots

Eight Apache helicopter pilots from the South Carolina National Guard were temporarily suspended from flight duties following a low-altitude flyover during the state's annual "Salute from the Shore" event on July 4, a suspension that was lifted by the Pentagon on July 10 after a swift political intervention. The pilots had participated in the Independence Day celebration, flying along the coast from Cherry Grove to Beaufort as thousands of beachgoers watched.

The South Carolina National Guard confirmed on July 9 that it was reviewing the flight profile of the Apache helicopters involved and had temporarily suspended the pilots from flight operations as a routine safety measure pending the outcome of that review. Officials emphasized that the action was nonpunitive and that the pilots remained on active duty, receiving pay and performing non-flying assignments. "I can confirm that the SCARNG is currently reviewing the flight profile of the Apache helicopters that participated in the event," said Maj. Lisa Allen. "As is routine, the pilots involved in the flight have been temporarily suspended from flight duties pending the outcome of this review."