History and tradition is being preserved in Kansas. Months after announcing plans to disband most of its ceremonial horse units, the U. S. Army announced it will keep Fort Riley’s Commanding General’s Mounted Color Guard. The U. S. Army will retain military working horse programs at Fort Hood, Texas, and Fort Riley. The programs include horses, mules, and donkeys owned by the Department of War and housed on Army installations.
The Army recently established a new Military Occupational Specialty (MOS), “Army Equestrian.” The new MOS replaces the “Military Horseman” identifier and creates a specialized career path dedicated to the professional care of military working equines. They say it empowers Fort Riley to maintain programs, much like the Old Guard, to continue their legacy of excellence in preserving the Army’s equine heritage.
