Are there any Military Jobs with Horses Available?

You love horses, but you want to serve your country. Did you know, you can join the military and work with horses? There are military jobs with horses if you follow the right career path.

Depending on the branch of the military you join, you may have more opportunities than in others. However, all branches have veterinarians, which could end up working with horses. Here’s a look at some of the military jobs with horses you can enjoy.

U.S. Army Special Forces Military Jobs with Horses

While it’s not a normal thing, the U.S. Army Special Forces do ride horses into the field sometimes. The Special Forces isn’t a position you should take just for the opportunity to ride a horse occasionally, however.

In 2001, the Army Special Forces had a need for horses to help carry their gear across the Afghanistan terrain. It was the first time since 1942 horses had gone into battle as a part of the Army. The training for the Army Special Forces now includes horses to prepare them in the event they need to use them again.

1st Cavalry Division’s Horse Cavalry Detachment

Members of the Horse Cavalry Detachment of the 1st Cavalry Division will work with horses in Fort Hood, Texas. They perform historical re-enactments centered on the Indian Wars.

If you join this division, your day will start like any other soldier’s does with early morning physical training. However, the rest of the day isn’t the same. You will ride and care for horses, along with make boots, saddles, shoes and more.

The duties range quite a bit from cleaning up after the horses to mowing the lawn. You will also be in charge of training and so much more. The Horse Cavalry Detachment even rides in parades.

Caisson Platoon of the Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment/The Old Guard

Found at Fort Myers, Virginal, the Caisson Platoon is well-known for the horses. It’s a combat-ready unit but has become the ceremonial face of the Army. The unit participates in military funerals, public events and renders honors.

The horses are found in three teams with a team of matched black horses and a team of matched gray horses. There was another team added in 1981 of matched white Lippizan horses.

As a member of the Caisson Platoon, you will be responsible for training and caring for the horses. These are accomplished horsemen and were likely accomplished horsemen before their assignment.

When a president is laid to rest or a military veteran head to Arlington Cemetery, The Old Guard transports their casket through the parade route. This unit lives, eats, breathes and sleeps with their horses.

Animal Care Specialist

You won’t just be working with horses if you become an animal care specialist, but it’s a possibility. This position means you will be responsible for preventing and controlling the possible disease transmitted from animal to man.

You will work with animals directly providing routine daily care, along with physical examinations. You will also assist veterinarians when it comes to any surgical procedures.

Horse Patrolmen

It’s the only active horse patrol in the Air Force, but it’s a job you could have if you want to work with horses. As a horse patrolman at Vanderberg Air Force Base, you will work directly with the horse, which will require plenty of patience. You will care for the horse you are assigned and prepare them for patrolling the challenging terrain of the base. There are only four horses as a part of this unit.

Mounted Color Guard

The only remaining option for military jobs with horses in the military is the Mounted Color Guard found at the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Bartow, California. This is a small group of individuals and horses that represent the Marine Corps in parades, rodeos, and other events.

B Troop in the 4th Cavalry Regiment

At Fort Huachuca in Arizona, you can work with horses as a volunteer. These volunteers dress, train and perform with the horses according to historical U.S. Cavalry standards from the 1880s. The members of this cavalry include active duty, retired military, and reserve personnel.

Blue Devils Horse Platoon

Found in Michigan, another option that represents the U.S. Army is the Blue Devils Horse Platoon. This is an option for Army Reserve personnel. The staff also includes volunteers. The unit represents the Army at sporting events and ceremonies all around the world. Members provide their own horses including uniforms, tack, and trailers.

There are limited opportunities when it comes to military jobs with horses. Most are found in the Army and while there are limited options, you can still take a job in the military and work with horses. Of course, there are several jobs working with other animals, as well, and many of those positions could include working with horses at some point or another.