Pete Hegseth Clears U.S. Army Aircrew After Kid Rock Helicopter Publicity Stunt, Declares “Carry On, Patriots”

The U.S. Army aircrew at the center of last weekend’s helicopter flyby at Kid Rock’s Nashville, TN residence will not face punishment, according to U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who confirmed the previously suspended pilots have now been cleared following an internal review.

The incident took place on March 28th, when two AH-64 Apache attack helicopters conducted a low flyby over Rock’s property, hovering above the grounds as the musician stood poolside saluting and cheering. Footage of the moment quickly spread online after Rock shared the video himself, drawing both support from fans and sharp criticism from detractors.

In the days that followed, the U.S. Army opened an investigation into what appeared to be an unscheduled flight deviation and temporarily suspended the aircrew involved. The move came amid growing backlash from critics who argued the display amounted to a publicity stunt carried out using military equipment funded by U.S. taxpayers.

Rock further fueled controversy by using the viral clip to take a swipe at California Governor Gavin Newsom on social media, adding a political layer to an already polarizing situation.

The musician — a longtime ally of U.S. President Donald J. Trump — has modeled his Nashville mansion after The White House, frequently referring to it as “The Southern White House.” Speaking with Nashville outlet WKRN earlier this week, Rock downplayed the likelihood of consequences for the pilots.

“I think they’re gonna be all right. My buddy is commander in chief. I mean, what are they looking into? They stopped seconds… a minute?”

President Trump was later asked about the incident during an appearance on Fox News, acknowledging the pilots likely “shouldn’t have been doing it,” while adding jokingly that they may simply be fans of the artist.

Now, the situation appears officially closed. Hegseth announced on social media that the suspension had been lifted and no disciplinary action would follow, writing:

“Thank you @KidRock.
@USArmy pilots suspension LIFTED.
No punishment. No investigation.
Carry on, patriots.”

The announcement ends what had briefly become a high-profile controversy involving military protocol, politics, and celebrity — though debate continues online over the use of military aircraft in what many critics still view as an unnecessary display.

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