The Army has opened an investigation after a video appeared to show two AH-64 Apache helicopters hovering over and buzzing past the home of singer Kid Rock. Army Maj. Jonathon Bless, a spokesperson for the 101st Airborne Division, confirmed to Task & Purpose Monday that officials at the unit’s home of Fort Campbell, Kentucky were looking into the video, which the singer posted March 29.
Fort Campbell is about 60 miles northwest of Nashville, and 50 miles from White Creek, Tennessee, where Kid owns a hilltop estate he calls the “the Southern White House” that appears to be in the video.
“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”), Bless said in a statement to Task & Purpose. “The command has initiated an investigation to review the circumstances surrounding this activity.”
Kid Rock posted a video on Instagram that shows him clapping and saluting as two of the Army gunship helicopters hover in front of him. A sign visible in the video reads “The Southern White House.”
Along with the video, the singer posted a message that disparaged California Gov. Gavin Newsome, adding, “God Bless America and all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to defend her.”
A representative for Kid Rock could not immediately be reached for comment.
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WTVF, a Nashville television station, reported that Apache helicopters may also have flown over a “No Kings” protest on Saturday in the city. Bless confirmed the Apaches were flying near Nashville but not if they were spotted over the parade.
“Our helicopters were flying a route in the Nashville vicinity for training purposes. Any association with the No Kings Rally also happening in Nashville that day is entirely coincidental,” Bless said.
No further information about the circumstances surrounding the incident were immediately available on Monday.
“The 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) and Fort Campbell maintain strict standards for aviation safety, professionalism, and adherence to established flight regulations,” Bless said. “We take all concerns regarding aircraft operations and their impact on the surrounding community seriously.”
