Army to begin limited use of horse-drawn caissons for Arlington National Cemetery funerals

Horse-drawn caissons to return to Arlington Memorial Cemetery after 2-year pause

Arlington National Cemetery will reintroduce caisson horses to some military funerals in June, after a two-year pause to improve the herd's health.

Horse-drawn caissons to return in limited use at Arlington cemetery

The Army will soon begin limited use of horse-drawn caissons for funerals at Arlington National Cemetery, phasing in the long-held tradition after nearly two years of work to improve the care of the horses.Starting June 2, the caissons will be used for two funerals per day, up to 10 per week, the Army said. The decision comes as the Army struggles to improve training, get better equipment and facilities and rebuild the stable of horses after two…

Army to resume horse-drawn caissons for funerals at Arlington Cemetery

The program, long an Arlington tradition, was suspended after several equine deaths and reports of neglectful treatment of horses used in funeral processions.

Horse-drawn Army caissons to roll again for funerals at Arlington National Cemetery

Beginning the week of June 2, soldiers, their horses and the caisson will carry caskets for two funerals a day and a maximum of 10 per week.

Army to begin limited use of horse-drawn caissons for Arlington National Cemetery funerals

The Army will begin limited use of horse-drawn caissons for funerals at Arlington National Cemetery the week of June 2.

Riding Forward: Pulling Caisson Detachment into the Future

Almost two years ago in May 2023, a 77-year legacy of service was halted due to the death of two horses within the Caisson Platoon, Mickey and Tony, after they passed due to intestinal compaction. News coverage, congressional meetings and public scrutiny unveiled a collection of underlying issues. This led to the closure of Caisson Detachment, formerly known as Caisson Platoon, as the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment “The Old Guard” worked to overhaul …