The US Army had a change of heart about getting rid of its special horse units

"The US Army is resurrecting two of its equine programs - its horse-mounted ceremonial units - reversing plans announced last summer to eliminate all but two. Last year, the Army sought to shutter five equine programs, largely devoted to ceremonial duties, to save money. But the service has had a change of heart about its horses, highlighting the limits of efficiency- and lethality-driven cuts."

"Some supporters have said these units serve as valuable recruiting and public engagement tools. The Army appears to agree, acknowledging that the programs can serve as a link between troops and the public. That connection is of increasing importance as civilians are more disconnected than ever from the military. Now, two of the programs previously set for disbandment - one at Fort Riley, Kansas, and another at Fort Hood, Texas - are set to return, with 22 horses and two mules each."

"Col. James Fuhriman, the assistant deputy for Army health affairs, said in a recent press release that "after careful consideration, the Army has determined that retaining these military working equine programs is in the best interests of the force." "The Fort Hood and Fort Riley programs will be formally established as Army programs and will serve as a link between the Army and the American people through public demonstrations, educational outreach, and participation in local events," according to the release."

The US Army is resurrecting two horse-mounted ceremonial units at Fort Riley, Kansas, and Fort Hood, Texas, reversing plans to eliminate most equine programs. Last year, the Army proposed shuttering five equine programs to save money but officials later decided retaining these units better serves force interests. Each reinstated program will include 22 horses and two mules and will join existing ceremonial units that perform funeral details at Arlington National Cemetery and Joint Base San Antonio. Army leaders emphasize recruitment, public demonstrations, educational outreach, and participation in local events. One program had previously drawn attention for equine welfare concerns.

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