Horse retired from Arlington National Cemetery becomes running buddy

Hank served Arlington National Cemetery 10 years, including the funeral for Gen. Colin Powell, as a caparisoned or "cap" horse, then retired to Compassion Ranch in Central Alabama. Dr. David Dyson was walking over to check on Lincoln, also from The Old Guard at Arlington, when he noticed Hank joined him walking. On the return (at 21 seconds), David asked Hank if he wanted to run--he did! Video by Beverly Crider.

Hank and Lincoln retired June 2023 as MWE (Military Working Equine) from The Old Guard of the US Army based at Fort Myer.

Hank was diagnosed by the Army as having Equine Metabolic Syndrome. He got obese at almost 1400 pounds. The Old Guard retired him with suggestions for special care to be given to his diet and exercise. He has gotten healthier at about 1300 pounds, though he has the nickname "Tank" because he is still a big boy.

Hank is preparing to serve as the "cap" (riderless) horse in the National Veterans Day Parade presented in Birmingham since 1947--November 11.

Lincoln was retired early after getting injured on the job helping to pull heavy wagons honoring deceased officers. His PTSD made him afraid and hard to handle, even for soldiers who are trained horsemen. Lincoln is learning to trust again. His stall and pen is next to Hank, and they share a paddock with Wounded Warrior.

Compassion Ranch provides compassionate care of 40 animals and teaches character traits for students--courage, patriotism, compassion--plus cooperates with Patriotism in Action presenting riderless horses for Veterans Day.

www.CompassionRanch.org

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