PICKENS COUNTY — The S.C. Air National Guard paid tribute to first responders and healthcare workers with statewide flyovers in F-16 fighter jets, flying over Baptist Easley and Cannon Memorial hospitals in Pickens County just after 11 a.m. on Monday.
The flyovers, named “Operation American Resolve” we conducted as jets were returning from a training mission Monday morning.
“The Airmen of the 169th Fighter Wing are humbled by the sacrifices made from our first responders and healthcare professionals,” read a statement from SCANG. “… our six-ship formation of Swamp Fox F-16 fighter jets will split off into three groups, with each group flying over different regions of the state in a display of national thanks to all who are fighting the good fight.”
The statement continued: “Our flight planners did their best to cover as many areas of our great state that flight limitations could allow. We wish we could flyover everyone who are contributing to winning the fight against COVID-19. However, we decided to flyover as many hospitals as we could to also let patients and their families know that we are thinking of them by offering them a much deserved morale boost.
“So to all first responders, healthcare professionals and fellow South Carolinians… if you are anywhere near the locations and approximate times posted on the attached schedules, look skyward and know your fellow citizen-Airmen from the South Carolina Air National Guard are proud to support and serve with you!”
If you managed to snap any photos or video of the flyover, residents are encouraged to share them on social media and tag them with #AFFlyover or #AirForceSalutes.
