Two U.S. Army Apache helicopters carried out a low-level flyover near Kid Rock’s Nashville-area home in March, in a manoeuvre reported to have departed from planned training. The incident drew attention after videos showed the musician applauding the aircraft, and it has since become politically contentious because an internal safety investigation was reportedly halted and may be linked to the dismissal of the Army’s former chief of staff, Gen. Randy George.

The helicopters came from Fort Campbell’s 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, and the pilot was initially suspended before Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth reversed the decision. The Washington Post, citing anonymous sources, reported that Gen. Chris LaNeve urged George to end the inquiry because Hegseth wanted it closed; George was then dismissed in April, while LaNeve became acting chief. The Pentagon has said the aircraft did not deviate from training, but the episode has fuelled criticism that military processes are being politicised and could affect LaNeve’s stalled nomination to lead the Army permanently.