Eight South Carolina National Guard Apache helicopter pilots were temporarily suspended from flight duties after a dramatic low-altitude flyover during the “Salute from the Shore” event celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.

Videos of the Apache helicopters roaring along the South Carolina coast quickly went viral, showing beachgoers cheering, waving American flags and watching the military aircraft pass overhead.

But after the pilots landed, they were reportedly informed that they had been temporarily suspended from flying while the flight profile was reviewed.

The news sparked a wave of criticism and support for the pilots online.

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth quickly responded on X, writing: “We’ll fix this. Carry on, Patriots.”

By the following morning, Pentagon spokesman and senior adviser Sean Parnell announced that the suspension of all eight pilots had been lifted “effective immediately.”

The South Carolina National Guard later clarified that the suspension was a routine administrative measure while the flyover was reviewed and was “not punitive.” Officials said the pilots remained in good standing, continued working and were paid during the temporary suspension.

The Guard described the eight pilots as “experienced aviators” and said returning them to flight status would help maintain operational readiness for state and federal missions.

The dramatic Apache flyover may have triggered an internal safety review — but it also became one of the most talked-about moments of the Independence Day celebration.