US Army Caisson Detachment Returns to Arlington National Cemetery
This week, the US Army Caisson Detachment made its first appearance at Arlington National Cemetery in two years. They escorted the remains of Private Bernard Curran, a WWII soldier killed by the Japanese in 1942, using a ceremonial horse unit to guide him to his final resting place.
Curran had been buried among other prisoners in the Philippines until last year, when his body was identified and brought back to the U.S. Arlington was chosen as his final resting place.
This ceremony also signified the return of the caisson operations, which had been paused for two years. The program underwent significant changes after the deaths of two horses due to inadequate living conditions.
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The Caisson Platoon is part of the 3rd Infantry Regiment, often referred to as the Old Guard, which has a long-standing tradition of honoring soldiers laid to rest in Arlington. For over 70 years, these horses have played a pivotal role in military funerals, a tradition emphasized by Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll.
Driscoll expressed that the caisson ceremonies date back generations, reflecting respect for those who served honorably. However, concerns regarding the welfare of the horses led to a suspension of the program in May 2023.
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Tragic incidents involving two horses, Mickey and Tony, who passed away shortly apart due to neglect, prompted a reevaluation of the caisson unit’s practices. Reports revealed that the conditions in their facility were severely lacking, contributing to health issues among the horses.
Following the suspension, Major General Trevor Bredenkamp took command and initiated a thorough review of the unit. He highlighted the importance of proper horse care and admitted that years of neglect had left many horses in need of retirement.
Bredenkamp detailed the necessary changes, including elevating feeding areas and improving living conditions. The Army committed significant resources—$28 million over two years—for renovations and training with expert horse trainers.
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Lieutenant Colonel Jason Crawford, a lifelong equestrian and newly appointed commander of the Caisson Separation, reported changes in care, including dental procedures and regular routines for the horses. The meticulous selection of horses to serve in this ceremonial role emphasizes the physical demands placed upon them, as they often work on hard surfaces.
Ultimately, the Army’s investment in upgrading facilities and care practices aims to ensure that the caisson units can return to their respected duties while safeguarding the welfare of these military animals. As Driscoll noted, these horses, though unable to speak, reflect a proud legacy of service that resonates deeply within the military community.
