Two Army Caisson Horses Available For Adoption

Two horses have completed their tours of duty.

The Old Guard transports a fallen soldier. Photo via Wikimedia Commons.

Here’s a unique opportunity for the right person. The U.S. Army announced yesterday that two of its beloved horses are available for adoption, free of charge to a good home, after completing their duties.

“Kennedy” and “Quincy” were both used as caisson horses — horses who bore the solemn duty of escorting a fallen soldier to his or her final resting place within the Cemetary. Kennedy is a 15-year-old Standardbred gelding and Quincy is an 11-year-old Quarter Horse gelding.

A part of the Army’s Old Guard, these two horses served their duties day in and day out but have now been retired due to some unsuitablity issues.

Kennedy is a bit fractious, having acted out a few too many times, and Quincy suffers from navicular. For these reasons, the horses are now being retired from duty and are seeking new, appropriate homes.

In case you were wondering, there is a very strict screening process when it comes to applying to adopt one of the Army’s horses. The application is six pages long, and you can expect a home visit from the Army as they want to ensure that their retirees are going to safe homes.

If you are interested in bringing one of these boys home, you can find more information and the application here. If any of our readers end up with these horses, we’d love to hear from you! Please email [email protected] if you become the proud new owner of a retired Army horse — certainly a rare and very special opportunity.