Perhaps he is talking later years, Clinton years. The military at least did well by their animals, and the Army still maintains a horse or two... have you ever seen a service at Arlington. Awesome and somber? Link at bottom written by a horse supplier to the military.
Actually when we were at Fort Carson years ago, they retired the old riding horses and pack animals. I was able to ride a few of those. The one I remember was Vixaflag... a beautiful jumper.. I also remember flying off that animal as we went over a four foot jump and landing flat on my back... I usually managed to stay on horses more than off... but when I did get lost or equipment broke I was left with some memorable experiences :)
Deactivation of Last Two Animal Pack Units Ft. Carson Colorado
At the close of World War II, the Cavalry Arm of the Service ceased to exist and the use of horses for tactical purposes at posts camps and stations ended. Two animal pack units, the 4th Field Artillery Battalion and the 35th QM Pack Co., equipped with mules and a small number of horses were retained at Fort Carson, Colorado, for training purposes to insure a means of expansion in case of emergency. In the final analysis these two pack units were deactivated on 15 February l957, and all of the animals were sold or transferred to other Government agencies, including the Forest Service of the Department of Agriculture and the National Park Service of the Department of the Interior. In ceremonies befitting and honoring the long service of this patient but sometimes cantankerous Army animal, the mules were publicly mustered out of the Army, to be replaced by the helicopter. Thus, a majestic Army tradition was ended. The spectacle at Fort Carson Colorado, was attended by more than 3,000 persons "A farewell that few will easily forget", as published in numerous newspapers and periodicals covering the event.
Transfer of the Horse Breeding Program to Department of Agriculture
The Remount Purchasing and Breeding Headquarters Offices were closed and the Army Horse Breeding Program was transferred to the Department of Agriculture by Act of Congress on 1 July l948, along with the Remount Depots, equipment and breeding stock. The Program was liquidated by the Department of Agriculture the following year and all stocks sold at public auction. During the 28 years the Plan was in operation by the Army, 1921-1948, a total of more than 700 stallions had been placed throughout the country and 230,000 foals were produced. Without doubt it resulted in immeasurable improvement in the horse stocks of the country and added untold wealth to its economy.
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