Petition to Restore SC Army National Guard Apache Pilots to Flight Status
The Issue
Petition to Immediately Restore South Carolina Army National Guard Apache Pilots to Flight Status
We, the undersigned, call upon the South Carolina Army National Guard to immediately restore the eight Apache helicopter pilots who participated in the July 4, 2026, Salute from the Shore flyover to flight status, or publicly explain the specific reasons why such action cannot yet be taken.
These pilots proudly represented our state and our nation during one of South Carolina’s most cherished Independence Day traditions. They have dedicated their careers to protecting our country and have earned the trust and respect of the communities they serve.
Following the event, all eight pilots were suspended from flight operations pending an internal investigation. While we recognize the importance of aviation safety and support appropriate reviews when warranted, the public has been given no meaningful explanation for these suspensions beyond a statement that an investigation is underway.
Transparency builds trust. If there is evidence of a serious safety violation, the public deserves to know the nature of those allegations, consistent with military policy and any legal limitations. If no such evidence exists, these highly trained aviators should not remain grounded under a cloud of uncertainty.
We respectfully request that the South Carolina Army National Guard:
- Immediately restore these eight Apache pilots to flight status unless there is documented evidence requiring their continued suspension.
- Release as much information as legally permissible regarding the allegations or concerns that prompted the suspensions.
- Complete the investigation promptly and fairly.
- Ensure these service members receive due process and are not subjected to unnecessary reputational harm while the review is pending.
National Guard members volunteer to serve our state and nation with courage and professionalism. They deserve fairness, transparency, and timely resolution.
Sign this petition if you believe these pilots deserve either an immediate return to the cockpit or a clear public explanation for why they remain grounded.
**no donations are needed as this petition is just for signatures**
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The Issue
Petition to Immediately Restore South Carolina Army National Guard Apache Pilots to Flight Status
We, the undersigned, call upon the South Carolina Army National Guard to immediately restore the eight Apache helicopter pilots who participated in the July 4, 2026, Salute from the Shore flyover to flight status, or publicly explain the specific reasons why such action cannot yet be taken.
These pilots proudly represented our state and our nation during one of South Carolina’s most cherished Independence Day traditions. They have dedicated their careers to protecting our country and have earned the trust and respect of the communities they serve.
Following the event, all eight pilots were suspended from flight operations pending an internal investigation. While we recognize the importance of aviation safety and support appropriate reviews when warranted, the public has been given no meaningful explanation for these suspensions beyond a statement that an investigation is underway.
Transparency builds trust. If there is evidence of a serious safety violation, the public deserves to know the nature of those allegations, consistent with military policy and any legal limitations. If no such evidence exists, these highly trained aviators should not remain grounded under a cloud of uncertainty.
We respectfully request that the South Carolina Army National Guard:
- Immediately restore these eight Apache pilots to flight status unless there is documented evidence requiring their continued suspension.
- Release as much information as legally permissible regarding the allegations or concerns that prompted the suspensions.
- Complete the investigation promptly and fairly.
- Ensure these service members receive due process and are not subjected to unnecessary reputational harm while the review is pending.
National Guard members volunteer to serve our state and nation with courage and professionalism. They deserve fairness, transparency, and timely resolution.
Sign this petition if you believe these pilots deserve either an immediate return to the cockpit or a clear public explanation for why they remain grounded.
**no donations are needed as this petition is just for signatures**
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Petition created on July 9, 2026