Return of Horse-Drawn Caissons
The Army will soon begin the limited use of horse-drawn caissons for funerals at Arlington National Cemetery, marking a return to a revered tradition after two years of enhancements aimed at improving the well-being of the horses. Beginning June 2, these caissons will be used for up to ten funerals each week, as announced by the Army.
Background of the Decision
This decision comes amidst ongoing efforts by the Army to enhance training, upgrade equipment, and rehabilitate the horse stables following the distressing deaths of two horses in 2022 due to inadequate feeding and living conditions. ‘After careful consideration and coordination, we are pleased to reintegrate the caisson conveyance into funeral services at Arlington National Cemetery, a solemn and revered tradition that honors our veterans and service members as they are laid to rest,’ stated Karen Durham-Aguilera, executive director of the Office of Army Cemeteries and Army National Military Cemeteries.
Improvements and Challenges
The return of the caissons has faced multiple delays. In May 2023, the Army temporarily halted their use to establish a program that prioritizes the health and condition of the horse herd. The two horses, Mickey and Tony, were euthanized shortly after suffering from colon impaction.
Maj. Gen. Trevor Bredenkamp, commander of the Army Military District of Washington, revealed that the Army is collaborating with equine specialists to acquire new horses and enhance their veterinary care and training. Currently, the Army has 46 horses, with 33 of them designated for use in the caissons.
Funeral Services and Future Goals
Initially, the Army plans to utilize two fully trained squads for funeral services. The timeframe for incorporating additional squads hinges on the successful acquisition of more horses, primarily Percheron or Percheron cross draft horses aged between 6 and 14 years. With two squads operational, it is anticipated the number of funerals could eventually increase to around 20 per week, although this is still below the 30 conducted prior to the challenges encountered.
Financial Support and Public View
According to Bredenkamp, approximately $10 million annually is allocated to the program, with the cost to acquire, train, and equip a single squad estimated at $900,000. Visitors to Arlington National Cemetery will start to see the caisson platoon, comprising horses and soldiers, in mid-April as they prepare for their duties.
Conditions Prior to Changes
During investigations into the horse deaths and the overall condition of the herd, it was discovered that turnout fields provided little grass, leading to horses consuming harmful sand and gravel. The investigation revealed that the fields were overcrowded and littered with debris, rendering them unsuitable for the number of horses present.
Looking Forward
A year ago, officials highlighted ongoing efforts to procure new horses and enhance facilities, although challenges persisted. Now, all previous program horses have been retired, and new horses have been successfully obtained. Renea Yates, acting superintendent of Arlington National Cemetery, acknowledged that while the more limited use of caissons may not meet all family expectations, it establishes a pathway for reintegrating the working horses back into the cemetery, continuing the sacred duty of honoring our nation’s heroes.
Cemetery officials remarked that this initiative underscores a strong commitment to honoring fallen service members, while prioritizing animal welfare.
