The United States Army has launched an official administrative review after two Boeing AH-64 Apache attack helicopters were filmed hovering near the Tennessee residence of musician Kid Rock.
Over the weekend, the rap-rock and country artist posted a video to social media showing the military aircraft performing a low-altitude pass over his Nashville property. The sprawling mansion, which Kid Rock refers to as “The Southern White House,” was custom-built to replicate several architectural elements of the actual White House. In the footage, the artist can be seen cheering and saluting the pilots as the helicopters paused near his swimming pool.
While the display drew admiration from some supporters, it also sparked widespread criticism online, with many questioning whether the flyover represented an unauthorized misuse of taxpayer-funded military resources.
Following the public release of the footage, military officials confirmed they are looking into the circumstances surrounding the maneuvers, as reported by Nashville’s Newschannel 5. Major Jonathan Bless, public affairs officer for the 101st Airborne Division based at nearby Fort Campbell, issued a formal statement regarding the incident.
“Fort Campbell leadership is aware of a video circulating on social media depicting AH-64 Apache helicopters operating in the vicinity of a private residence associated with Mr. Robert Ritchie (also known as ‘Kid Rock’),” the statement reads.
“The command has initiated an investigation to review the circumstances surrounding this activity. The 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) and Fort Campbell maintain strict standards for aviation safety, professionalism, and adherence to established flight regulations. We take all concerns regarding aircraft operations and their impact on the surrounding community seriously.”
Nashville’s Newschannel 5 also reported that prior to hovering near the artist’s estate, the same helicopters made a low pass over the “No Kings” protest taking place in the city. The March 28 rally was part of nationwide demonstrations featuring millions of citizens protesting the policies of U.S. President Donald Trump and his administration.
Addressing the helicopters’ proximity to the demonstration, Major Jonathan Bless noted that the reason for the flight path over the protest area remains unconfirmed. “Our pilots do regularly fly routes outside the Fort Campbell area. We just don’t know if it was incidental or if it was deliberate,” he stated.
Kid Rock, an outspoken conservative and vocal supporter of President Donald Trump, utilized the viral video to direct a political insult toward California Governor Gavin Newsom.
“This is a level of respect that s**t for brains Governor of California will never know. God Bless America and all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to defend her,” Kid Rock wrote alongside the clip.
