Maynard James Keenan – who wears many hats as a lead singer, writer, winemaker, and black belt in jiu jitsu – is also a veteran. The Tool frontman has issued a statement in support of General Randy George, a four-star general, who was reportedly asked to retire early for undisclosed reasons.
Keenan, who rose to prominence in the 1990s as the lead singer and songwriter of Tool – a band known for its thought-provoking lyrics, complex musical arrangements, and eccentric visuals – also joined the United States Army and attended United States Military Academy preparatory training in the early 1980s.
After news of General George’s early retirement made headlines, Keenan – who attended preparatory training associated with West Point alongside the general – posted a message of support for his “old friend” on Instagram.
“As long as I can remember, I wanted to be an artist in some way. Visual, musical, performing,” the Grammy Award-winning writer wrote, noting that “after H.S. graduation, the reality of tuition set in,” and his family’s “teacher’s salary” would not be enough to cover the cost.
Keenan enlisted in the Army, writing that he hoped to receive assistance through the Army College Fund.
“As it turns out, I excelled in the military, which was not what I was expecting,” he continued. “I was awarded Distinguished Graduate from both basic and advanced training. Then, after many, many rounds of testing, I was chosen to attend U.S.M.A.P.S. and to apply to the U.S. Military Academy, West Point.”
It was there that Keenan met George. However, he noted that while most of his classmates were there “to be a West Point graduate and serve in our military,” he himself “was one of the few with doubts and inner conflict.”
When he declined an appointment to West Point, there were very few that supported his decision. Among them was George.
“If you’ve been wading through the flood of news lately, you may recognize that name,” Keenan wrote. “Randy went on to become a four-star general and Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army. He was approaching his 40th year of service.”
“I can’t even imagine how disappointed and upset he must feel for having been ‘asked’ to retire early. So I’m just here to return that favor of support,” Keenan shared.
Over the weekend, reports indicated that War Secretary Pete Hegseth had asked Army Chief of Staff General Randy George to step down from his post and retire. No reason for the request was provided, though speculation has circulated that the secretary is seeking leadership aligned with the vision that President Donald Trump and Secretary Hegseth have for the Army.
“We’re here for you, Randy,” the singer concluded. “Might be time for a beer or three. See you soon.”
Keenan is also the frontman for the bands A Perfect Circle and Puscifer.
He is the owner of Caduceus Cellars and Merkin Vineyards, which produce award-winning wines in Arizona.
