The National Guard has suspended eight Apache helicopter pilots who participated in the "Salute to the Shore" flyover event along the South Carolina coast on the Fourth of July.
No reason has been provided for their suspension, with the pilots reportedly receiving a message indicating an investigation was underway as soon as they landed.
According to sources, the pilots were part of the South Carolina Army National Guard's Alpha Company and had been looking forward to the event, which drew thousands of people to the beaches.
One of the pilots, Capt. Kyle Wise, had expressed excitement about the flyover, saying it was going to be "fun" and that they were hoping to stay safe while giving the crowds a show.
An investigation is currently underway, but details on the reason for the suspension or any specific incidents are not yet available.
The pilots received their message of suspension immediately after landing, with no explanation provided for the reason behind the investigation.
The "Salute to the Shore" event is a traditional celebration that takes place along the South Carolina coast, and the Apache helicopters participated in the flyover for the first time this year.
