Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has confirmed that the suspensions of two US Army AH-64 Apache helicopter crews have been lifted, after they hovered over the home of singer Kid Rock on Saturday. Hegseth stated on social media: “No punishment. No investigation. Carry on, patriots.”
The announcement came just hours after an Army spokesperson had said the crews were suspended from flying pending an investigation. The Army had been reviewing the mission’s compliance with FAA regulations, aviation safety protocols, and approval requirements.
The helicopters, from the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade at Fort Campbell, were on a training mission when they hovered near Kid Rock’s swimming pool. The singer, a supporter of Donald Trump, posted videos of the incident, showing him clapping and saluting. He said it was not uncommon for helicopters from Fort Campbell to fly near his home.
President Trump commented from the Oval Office, suggesting the crews might have been trying to defend Kid Rock, adding: “I like Kid Rock. Maybe they were trying to defend him. I don’t know.” Major Jonathon Bless of the 101st Airborne Division confirmed the helicopters also flew over a “No Kings” protest in Nashville, but said their presence was unrelated to the protest.
Kid Rock expressed support for the crews, saying he thought it was “really cool” and hoped they would face no repercussions, adding: “My buddy’s the commander-in-chief.”
