Overview
- The U.S. Army will reintroduce horse-drawn caisson funeral services at Arlington National Cemetery starting June 2, 2025, with two funerals per day, up to 10 per week.
- The program's revival follows a two-year suspension prompted by the 2022 deaths of two horses due to poor care, sparking an overhaul of equine health, training, and facilities.
- The Army has invested $10 million annually in the caisson program, including the acquisition of new horses, custom gear, and facility upgrades, to ensure safe and dignified operations.
- Currently, two fully trained squads of horses and soldiers are certified for duty, with plans to expand as more horses and squads are prepared for service.
- Eligibility for caisson services includes service members killed in action, Medal of Honor and Prisoner of War Medal recipients, and others designated by family requests.