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Army Phases Out Ceremonial Equine Units to Boost Warfighting Readiness

Under veterinary supervision, 141 horses, mules, donkeys will move to private or nonprofit care, with only two caisson teams left for funerary honors.

FILE - A U.S. Army Caisson team carries the remains of Army Pfc. Tramaine J. Billingsley during burial services at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va., Nov. 2, 2010. (AP Photo/Kevin Wolf, File)
FILE - A U.S. Army Caisson team carries the casket of Army Capt. Stephanie Rader, during a full military honors conducted by the Army's 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment through Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va., June 1, 2016. (AP Photo/Molly Riley, File)
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Overview

  • The Army has announced a one-year drawdown of its Military Working Equid program, closing units at Fort Irwin, Fort Huachuca, Fort Riley, Fort Sill, and Fort Hood.
  • The reallocation of resources is expected to save $2 million annually and redirect funds and soldiers to modern warfighting priorities.
  • Only two ceremonial caisson units will remain operational at Arlington National Cemetery and Joint Base San Antonio for military burial honors.
  • Equine veterinarian experts will oversee the transfer of 141 horses, mules, and donkeys to vetted private or nonprofit owners over the next year.
  • The decision follows a 2022 welfare investigation at Arlington that halted caisson services and led to facility and care upgrades.