Caisson Platoon resumed service
The Caisson Platoon, a horse-drawn unit that traditionally carries the caskets of deceased service members to gravesites at Arlington National Cemetery, has resumed its service after a two-year suspension, according to the Army and Arlington National Cemetery. The reintroduction is limited to two funerals per day, up to ten per week, and is reserved for officers in the rank of O-6 and above, senior warrant officers, and senior noncommissioned officers. The suspension was due to concerns about the health and welfare of the horses.
The ceremony marked the return of the Caisson Detachment after a two-year suspension. The program faced a massive overhaul after two horses died within 96-hours of each other due to poor living conditions.