Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced the lifting of suspensions for two US Army Apache helicopter crews that hovered over the home of musician Kid Rock in Tennessee, declaring there would be no punishment or investigation. The move came just hours after the army confirmed the crews had been suspended from flying pending a review into the incident on 28 March.
The helicopters, from the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade at Fort Campbell, conducted a low-level flight over the singer's Nashville property, where he was seen clapping and saluting. The army had stated it was reviewing compliance with FAA regulations, aviation safety protocols and approval requirements. In a social media post, Hegseth wrote: 'No punishment. No investigation. Carry on, patriots.'
Kid Rock, a vocal supporter of Donald Trump, told local media that military flyovers from the nearby base were not uncommon, adding he had encouraged pilots to visit. 'I’ve told them: You guys are always welcome to cruise by my house any time,' he said. The entertainer posted videos of the encounter, with one caption criticising Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom of California.
Speaking at the Oval Office, President Trump said he liked Kid Rock and suggested the crews may have been trying to defend him. The army confirmed the helicopters were on a training mission and also flew over a 'No Kings' protest against Trump in downtown Nashville, though officials stated this was unrelated to the protest.
The incident has sparked debate about military protocol and political affiliations, with critics questioning the appropriateness of the flyover. Kid Rock's home, which features a replica of the Statue of Liberty and a sign reading 'The Southern White House,' was built to resemble the White House. He expressed confidence the crews would be fine, quipping: 'My buddy's the commander-in-chief.'
