What Army Horse Soldiers Go Through in Arlington Funeral Training
In a mission unlike any other in the U.S. military, the soldiers of the Caisson Detachment uphold a responsibility that resonates deeply with both reverence and solemnity: transporting fallen service members to their final resting places at Arlington National Cemetery. This sacred duty involves the careful maneuvering of the caisson, an ornate wagon designed to carry caskets, pulled through the hallowed grounds by highly trained mounted soldiers. Each soldier rides one horse while controlling another, displaying not just exceptional horsemanship but also a profound respect for the occasion.
The journey to becoming a member of the Caisson Detachment is rigorous and demanding. Many of the soldiers selected for this esteemed unit begin with little to no equestrian experience, yet their composure, discipline, and physical fitness mark them as prime candidates. After selection, they embark on an intense 12-week basic horsemanship course that is foundational to their future roles. This is subsequently followed by an additional six weeks of advanced training designed to refine their skills and prepare them for the unique challenges they will face in honoring the fallen.
Notably, the Caisson Detachment underwent a significant transformation in 2025 following a nearly two-year suspension. An investigation revealed unsanitary living conditions that were directly linked to several horse fatalities. In light of these findings, the Army enlisted equestrian champion Chester Weber, a member of the Campbell’s Soup family, to revitalize the training program. Weber brought together a cadre of world-class equestrian professionals to enhance the soldiers’ abilities, employing his own Florida stud farm as a training ground. The program culminates in a validation test that soldiers must pass before they can ride during funeral missions, ensuring that only the most capable make the cut.
In a recent video, correspondent Graham Flanagan provides an inside look at the rigorous training process involved in becoming a mounted soldier in the U.S. Army Caisson Detachment. From receiving instruction from a German riding instructor named Inga, to understanding the qualifications needed for this critical role, Flanagan highlights the path these soldiers walk. Among the ranks, viewers will meet the squad’s only female member, illustrating the diverse backgrounds of those who commit to this honored service.
The training extends beyond standard riding techniques; it includes specialized instruction in wagon training conducted by a coachman previously affiliated with the British Royal Family. This highlights the precision and expertise required for handling the caisson, which is not merely a vehicle but a symbol of national honor and remembrance. The team also employs the Postillion riding style, a technique essential for effectively controlling multiple horses simultaneously and executing maneuvers during funeral processions.
Central to the mission is the caisson itself, a stunning piece of craftsmanship valued at $256,000, representing centuries of military tradition. Soldiers are fully trained on the importance of maintaining the horses’ wellbeing, understanding the breed—primarily the Percheron—for their strength and temperament. Intensive efforts are made to desensitize the horses to various elements they may encounter during missions, preparing them for the unpredictable nature of real-world stakes involved in these ceremonies.
As the soldiers conclude their validation test, the stakes become profoundly apparent. Each soldier’s performance not only determines their role in future funeral missions but also underscores the significance of their duty: to honor those who have served with dignity and respect. The video captures the gravity of their responsibilities, pulling back the curtain on the unique and often overlooked efforts that enable military funerals to proceed with the utmost respect for the fallen.
Through Flanagan’s exploration, we gain a deeper appreciation of the bond between soldier and horse, the meticulous training process, and the heavy burden of representing a nation’s gratitude and respect during one of its most solemn occasions. The commitment of the Caisson Detachment stands as a testament to the enduring values of honor and service within the U.S. military, reminding us all of the weight carried by those who undertake this sacred mission.
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Video “What Army Horse Soldiers Go Through In Arlington Funeral Training” was uploaded on 06/10/2026 to Youtube Channel Business Insider