Celebrate Independence Day and show appreciation for our armed forces on South Carolina beaches!

Salute from the Shore synchronizes a salute to our troops a special military flyover that spans the length of the state’s coastline. The event captures extensive aerial and ground footage for a memorable video to share. This is a unique opportunity to come together and honor the brave men and women who serve our country.
The F-16s flyover passes Hilton Head Island at approximately 1:31 p.m. and the C-17 at 1:48 p.m.
History of Salute from the Shore:
14 years ago, Johnny Folsom and Toddy Smith were reflecting on how grateful they were for their family and friends on the 4th of July. As they talked, they couldn’t help but think of the young people serving overseas and how they deserved recognition. Together with their sons, Andy Folsom and Cam Smith, they decided it was time to honor these heroes. And so, they embarked on a mission to find a meaningful way to do just that.
In 2010, “Salute from the Shore” took flight and touched the hearts of hundreds of thousands who witnessed the inaugural flyover, aided by Charleston AFB’s C-17. The event sparked an uplifting response, with participants sharing personal messages, stories, and support. The overwhelming emotional reaction inspired the organization to expand the annual celebration.
Watch part of last year’s Flyover on Hilton Head Island:
Join In!
Show your support for our armed forces and the majestic flyover by sporting red, white, and blue attire and enthusiastically waving your colors high when the planes soar overhead. Don’t forget to snap a photo or take a video of your salute and share your patriotic story on our website and wherever else you’d like to spread the love. Show your true colors and be part of our final “Salute” video by submitting your best visuals for the world to see.
How To Salute:
- Head to the South Carolina coast with red, white and blue at 1 p.m. on July 4th.
- Record your Salute on camera and share it.
- Tag your Salute images and videos with #SalutefromtheShore
- Share your tribute by going to https://salutefromtheshore.org/share-your-salute.