Beaufort, South Carolina…a Patriotic Community United by Pride

As you may have noticed, there is a big American flag hanging from the Woods Memorial Bridge in downtown Beaufort, SC. To many, it’s more than a flag. Our flag often generates feelings of freedom, courage, and pride. It’s a symbol of strength and unity. Strength and unity for our nation and our small-town community.

This is a first for the state of South Carolina.  Beaufort is the first city to allow a flag to be displayed from a bridge. A 15’ x 25 foot United States flag hanging from the historic Woods Memorial swing bridge. Gaining approval and actually hanging the flag from the bridge is the result of many members of our community coming together to achieve a common goal. So, thank you, Beaufort. A special thanks go out to:

Shannon Erickson, Representative, SC House District 124, who spearheaded the government approval process. Shannon jumped on board immediately and took charge by contacting and coordinating government officials, whose approvals were needed to hang Old Glory from the Woods Memorial Bridge.  

Mayor Billy Keyserling for always listening and following through to help

Allan Hutto and team at SCDOT for figuring out a plan and coordinating the logistics with the City of Beaufort

The Beaufort County Public Works team who designed and installed a custom bracket system to secure the flag on our unique swing bridge

City Manager Bill Prokop for supporting this idea from get-go and approving the last-minute permits

Fire Chief Reece Bertholf & Deputy Chief of Operations Tim Ogden and all of the first responders from the City of Beaufort/Town of Port Royal Fire Department who assisted with hanging the flag for from the Historic Woods Memorial Bridge for the very first time at 8 AM, July 2, 2019.

What a remarkable thing to witness all come together so quickly. 

It makes us proud to be an American, to be part of a patriotic community that truly believes in what the flag stands for. A proud community that worked together so we can all pay tribute to our independence and the individuals who sacrifice their lives for our freedom.

We hope this patriotic tradition will be able to continue for this many future generations to enjoy.

Hope you all have a safe and Happy 4th of July.

God Bless America!

Photos courtesy of Deputy Chief of Operations Tim Ogden, City of Beaufort/Town of Port Royal Fire Department

Featured cover photo courtesy Delk Haigler Photography