The Caisson Detachment of the U.S. Army’s 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) is one of the most iconic pieces of U.S. military history, serving as the mounted escort to our nation’s fallen.
The Caisson is authorized for Military funeral honors with escort for all Medal of Honor recipients, those who were prisoners of war (POWs) or who were killed in action (KIA), officers O-4 and above, and service members who attained the most senior enlisted and warrant officer ranks. The Caisson is also authorized for all state funerals.
Almost two years ago in May 2023, a 77-year legacy of service was halted due to the death of two horses within the Caisson Platoon, Mickey and Tony, after they passed due to intestinal compaction. News coverage, congressional meetings and public scrutiny unveiled a collection of underlying issues. This led to the closure of Caisson Detachment, formerly known as Caisson Platoon, as the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment “The Old Guard” worked to...
