Restoring a Veterans Day Tradition
Restoring a Veterans Day Tradition
Julie Broadway, President, American Horse Council
On Monday, November 11, our nation will honor America’s veterans for their service, sacrifice, and commitment to protect our freedoms. Communities will hold parades, wreaths will be laid, and flags will fly at full staff.
Among the many symbols associated with our veterans is the Army’s official ceremonial unit, the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard). It presents an enduring image: Soldiers in formation stand in reverent silence at Arlington National Cemetery as The Old Guard, including the iconic caisson horses, conveys their respects and deepest gratitude.
But for more than a year, the caisson horses have been absent. The Army suspended caisson support to services inside Arlington cemetery while the Old Guard and the equine community work together to support health and welfare upgrades for the horses. They also seek to improve the skills of those entrusted with the care and safekeeping of these emblematic horses.
It was a difficult but necessary decision as two horses were euthanized prompting a comprehensive review of the program. Management of the caisson herd on this historic military installation had deteriorated over the years. This was due in large part to expansion of the cemetery, which led to reduced pasture. In addition, frequent turnover among the horses’ caregivers — an inevitable result of deployments and reassignments — left gaps in knowledge and experience. Moreover, the equipment and saddlery were obsolete. The Old Guard has retired more than 40 horses based on age and time in service as they rebuild the herd for the future.
These problems are being addressed through the dedicated efforts of the Old Guard and the horse community, assisted by news coverage and some tough love by members of Congress.
A comprehensive plan will place the horses in modern facilities with adequate paddock space to allow decompression from training exercises and work activities. The historic stables at Fort Myer, adjacent to the cemetery, are being renovated to create larger, more comfortable stalls for the horses. Soldiers of the Old Guard are being trained in a 12-week basic rider program designed by an Olympic medalist, along with other experts. In addition, each horse is being custom-fit for a saddle, while the caisson wagon has been redesigned to be lighter and easier to maneuver.
These improvements require time to implement. Just as the degradation in the horses’ care developed over a long period of time, so too will the necessary rehabilitation. At the American Horse Council, we encourage patience as well as vigilance. Congress needs to continue its support of the caisson program throughout this rebuilding process to ensure the preservation of this longstanding tradition. The coordination and communication between the Amy and civilian equine experts must continue. Only through these efforts will the Old Guard caisson detachment reclaim and sustain the world-class program that our veterans and their families deserve.
Our military has a long history of honoring not only our fallen heroes but also the animals entrusted to their care. It is our hope that by next Veterans Day, Arlington National Cemetery will be able to resume a sacred rite in a way that respects both traditions.
In the meantime, we wish our veterans a day of peace and remembrance. We honor your sacrifices, and we will not break our faith and support.
Based in Washington, D.C., the American Horse Council is the only national association representing every segment of the equine industry.