Washington/Nashville – Pete Hegseth has lifted the suspension of U.S. Army helicopter crews involved in a controversial flyby near the home of musician Kid Rock, reversing the decision just hours after it was imposed.
The move came shortly after Donald Trump commented on the incident at the White House, where he acknowledged the crews “probably shouldn’t have been doing it” but also expressed support for Kid Rock, a longtime political ally.
In a post on social media, Hegseth confirmed the decision, stating that the pilots’ suspension had been lifted and that no investigation would proceed. “Carry on, patriots,” he wrote, effectively ending the Army’s earlier inquiry into the unusual flight operation.
The incident involved two AH-64 Apache helicopters from the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, based at Fort Campbell, which flew low and hovered near Kid Rock’s Nashville residence over the weekend. Videos shared online showed the aircraft flying close to the singer’s property while he saluted the crews.
Earlier, the U.S. Army had launched an administrative review under standard regulations, citing concerns about compliance with aviation safety rules and authorization procedures. The pilots were temporarily removed from flight duties pending the outcome of that investigation.
The flyby drew attention not only for its proximity to a private residence but also because it coincided with nationwide “No Kings” protests against Trump, including demonstrations in Nashville where military aircraft were also seen overhead.
Critics questioned whether the flyby represented a breach of military protocol or an inappropriate display of support for a political ally, while supporters dismissed the concerns as overblown.
With the suspension now lifted and the investigation halted, the episode underscores ongoing debates over military conduct, political influence, and the use of armed forces in sensitive domestic contexts.
