Look to the Skies: 2026 “Salute from the Shores” to honor heroes this 4th of July
June 29, 2026
This Independence Day, South Carolina beachgoers are in for a spectacular, high-flying tribute. The annual Salute from the Shores is returning on Saturday, July 4, 2026, bringing a powerful display of military aviation to the state’s coastline to honor America’s military, veterans, and first responders.
Why We Salute: A Vision of Unity Born in 2010
Note: Times are approximate and subject to change based on weather and flight conditions.
The deeply patriotic tradition was born on July 4, 2010, when the inaugural flyover—assisted by a C-17 from Charleston AFB—was witnessed by hundreds of thousands of people. That very first flight resulted in an overwhelming outpouring of personal messages, stories, and profound support from those who watched from below. Touched by the incredible emotional reaction to the event, the organization resolved to grow the tribute into something even greater.
Today, the core vision of Salute from the Shore remains unchanged: to create an accessible opportunity for South Carolina beachgoers to honor our armed forces by organizing a military flyover spanning the entire South Carolina coast each Independence Day. By bringing together thousands of people along the coast, the organization aims to unite participants in a synchronized Salute to our troops—creating a powerful wave of gratitude that is shared across the nation and around the world.
The Aircraft
Starting at 1:00 PM EDT, the aircraft will take to the skies for the coastal run. The flyover will begin at Cherry Grove and travel south down the entirety of the coastline, concluding in Beaufort.
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F-16 Vipers: Screaming across the sky from Shaw Air Force Base.
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C-17 Globemaster III: The massive military transport giant out of Joint Base Charleston.
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Vintage Warbirds: Privately owned, historic aircraft that capture the timeless spirit of American aviation history.
How to Participate
The best viewing locations are along open beaches, public piers, and coastal waterfront areas. Spectators are encouraged to wear their finest red, white, and blue, bring their American flags, and wave generously to the pilots as they pass to become part of this massive, synchronized tribute.
To learn more, see detailed flight tracking, or support the cause, visit salutefromtheshore.org.
