US Army preserves ceremonial horse units at Fort Riley and Fort Hood

The United States Army has reversed its previous decision to eliminate several ceremonial horse units, opting instead to preserve military working equine programs at Fort Riley, Kansas, and Fort Hood, Texas.

Previously, the Army had planned to dissolve five ceremonial units to achieve annual savings of approximately $2 million. While the programs at Fort Irwin, Fort Huachuca, and Fort Sill are still scheduled to close by July 2026, the units at Fort Riley and Fort Hood will remain active.

Col. James Fuhriman, assistant deputy for Army health affairs, stated that retaining these programs is in the best interests of the force, noting they provide unique capabilities that are difficult to replicate. The preserved units include the 1st Infantry Division Commanding General’s Mounted Color Guard at Fort Riley and the 1st Cavalry Division Horse Cavalry Detachment at Fort Hood. These units serve to maintain military traditions and act as a bridge to the civilian community through public demonstrations and educational outreach.