Beloved Caisson Horse Sergeant York Dies at 34

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Sergeant York, a 34-year-old Standardbred horse who served in the U.S. Army Caisson Platoon for 25 years, has died. The horse, who was best known for his role as the riderless horse at the funeral of President Ronald Reagan in 2004, was retired in 2022 and spent his final years at the Equine Advocates Rescue and Sanctuary in New York.

Why it matters

Sergeant York's passing marks the end of an era for the U.S. Army's Caisson Platoon, which has used riderless horses in military funerals and ceremonies for decades to honor fallen soldiers. As one of the most recognized and beloved Caisson horses, Sergeant York's legacy will continue to inspire veterans, military families, and all those who witnessed his dignified presence at historic national events.

The details

Sergeant York, originally named Allaboard Jules, was a Standardbred racehorse who struggled with injuries during his racing career at Freehold Raceway in New Jersey. In 1997, he was accepted into the U.S. Army's Caisson Platoon and renamed after World War I hero Sgt. Alvin York. Over the next 25 years, Sergeant York served as the Army's primary riderless horse, participating in thousands of Armed Forces Full Honors funerals and official ceremonies, including the 2004 funeral of President Ronald Reagan and the 2021 funeral of Gen. Colin Powell. He was known for his steadiness in the face of cannon fire, rifle volleys, and military bands.

• Sergeant York was accepted into the U.S. Army's Caisson Platoon in 1997.
• In June 2004, Sergeant York walked behind the casket of President Ronald Reagan at Arlington National Cemetery.
• Sergeant York retired from the Army in 2022 and spent his final years at the Equine Advocates Rescue and Sanctuary in New York.
• Sergeant York passed away on January 1, 2026, at the age of 34.