APRIL 8, 2025 — Caisson Detachment, 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) is riding into modernization with a new saddle. The detachment is embracing innovation while honoring its deep-rooted traditions — this time, with the adoption of new equipment.
The unit is known for its solemn duty of conducting military funerals at Arlington National Cemetery. They’ve carried out this duty since 1948 when the Army designated the regiment as its official ceremonial unit.
The tradition of using horse-drawn caissons for military funerals began in the 19th century when the Army repurposed artillery caissons for fallen Soldiers. State funerals such as President William McKinley’s in 1901 further cemented this tradition.
The U.S. War Department, known today as the Department of Defense, adopted the McClellan saddle designed by then-Capt. George B. McClellan in 1859. The design was inspired by his studies of European cavalry equipment which balanced durability, comfort, and lightweight efficiency.
Identifying a need to modernize, discussions for a new saddle gained momentum in early 2024. This led to the selection of the Circle Y Cascade Crossover Saddle, designed by equine professional Julie Goodnight. It marked a significant shift in the unit’s history.
The Circle Y Cascade Crossover Saddle is a worthy successor to the McClellan Saddle. It draws inspiration from the classic silhouette but contains improved materials such as carbon fiber and a different flexible tree. The custom-made saddle also reduces pressure points on the horses and evenly distributes the rider’s weight — enhancing comfort and performance for both.
“Since the introduction of the new individually fitted saddles, the herd has demonstrated near elimination of back soreness,” Col. Clayton Chilcoat, Caisson Detachment Veterinarian, said. “Appropriately fitting tack remains a key component of the health and readiness of the herd.”
The unit’s experienced riders trained with the saddle before the official switch.
Sgt. Shawn Tabor is a Basic Horsemanship Instructor and seven-year Caisson Detachment Soldier. His valued experience and expertise in postillion riding helped the evaluation process.
“You can be rich in tradition and history, but you can still modernize,” Tabor said. “We tested the saddles by checking their fit to the horses, comfortability, how light they were, and their overall strength.”
Strong partnerships also made the transition possible.
1st Lt. Joseph Holbrook, Caisson Detachment Platoon Leader, worked closely with designers and riders to bring the new saddle into service. He praised the collaboration between the Army and the equine industry.
“I’ve been impressed with the equine experts that came in and continue to coach and mentor the organization,” Holbrook said. “The support we’ve received from the equine industry has been instrumental in the positive changes we’ve made.”
The saddle’s adoption reflects the unit’s commitment to excellence and represents tradition crossed with innovation.
With the new saddle in place, the Caisson Detachment continues to carry out its sacred mission — honoring the fallen with precision, pride, and an eye toward the future.
Story by Sgt. Julian Patricio
3d U.S. Infantry Regiment “The Old Guard”