Hegseth says suspension lifted for Army crew seen in video flying Apache helicopters at Kid Rock’s home

Hegseth Announces Suspension Lift for Army Crews Involved in Apache Flyby

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth declared Tuesday that the Army pilots who conducted a helicopter flyby near Kid Rock’s Nashville-area residence have had their suspensions rescinded, with no further inquiry into the event. Hegseth shared a video from Kid Rock, commending the musician as a steadfast Trump supporter and asserting that the crews would continue their duties without repercussions. “No penalties, no inquiry—patriots, carry on,” he stated in a post on X.

The Army initially imposed suspensions and initiated an investigation after Kid Rock uploaded footage of Apache helicopters circling his home. A spokesperson for the 101st Airborne Division confirmed Monday that a review is ongoing, with potential actions pending if any regulatory breaches are identified. “Aviators must uphold rigorous safety protocols and professional conduct,” emphasized Maj. Jonathon Bless.

Meanwhile, Trump expressed indifference toward the controversy, denying awareness of the video but suggesting the pilots’ actions were justified. “They like Kid Rock. I like Kid Rock. Perhaps they were trying to honor him,” he remarked, adding, “I’m sure they had a good time.” When pressed about the suspensions, he conceded, “They probably shouldn’t have been doing it, yes—playing games, right?”

Details of the Unauthorized Flyby

Maj. Montrell Russell explained that the personnel involved in the Saturday incident are currently suspended from flight duties while the Army examines the mission’s circumstances. This includes assessing adherence to FAA regulations, aviation safety procedures, and operational approvals. “We take unauthorized or unsafe flight operations very seriously,” Russell stated, highlighting the Army’s commitment to accountability.

The two AH-64 Apache helicopters belonged to the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. The flyby was captured in two videos: one showing Kid Rock saluting a helicopter hovering near his pool, which he called “The Southern White House,” and another where he raised his fist as the aircraft passed overhead. In the latter clip, he quipped, “This is a level of respect that sh*t for brains Governor of California will never know,” directly referencing Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom.

Kid Rock has been engaged in a public rivalry with Newsom, frequently exchanging barbs on social media. Newsom had humorously “banned” the musician from California in an earlier X post. CNN has contacted the Creative Artists Agency, Kid Rock’s management, for additional comments on the situation.