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Army to Resume Limited Horse-Drawn Caisson Ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery

The historic tradition will return on June 2, 2025, following extensive reforms to improve equine care, training, and facilities after a two-year suspension.

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 Lt. Col. Richard Smith during his funeral at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va., March 28, 2019. (AP Photo/Steve Helber, File)
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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.