The US Army is closing five ceremonial equine programs in an effort to save $2 million each year. Despite the historical significance of these cavalry units, concerns regarding equine welfare and inadequate veterinary resources contributed to this decision. While the Army will continue two ceremonial caisson units for military funerals, the remaining 141 horses will be reassigned outside the military. The move follows scrutiny of past equine welfare issues, including reports of unsanitary conditions and poor care linked to horse deaths at Arlington National Cemetery.
"I'm torn," an Army veterinarian familiar with the programs told Business Insider of the disbanding. "I think overall it's a relief, since there just aren't the veterinary resources available to take care of the horses properly."
Starting this month, the Army will begin shuttering five military equine programs operating at Fort Irwin in California, Fort Huachuca in Arizona, Fort Riley in Kansas, Fort Sill in Oklahoma, and Fort Hood in Texas.
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