Horses Who Served In Army Free To Adopt

Follow CBSMIAMI.COM: Facebook | Twitter

MIAMI (CBSMiami) - A number of horses retiring from service in the Army are up for adoption and free to a good home.

Kennedy, a 15-year-old Standardbred, and Quincy, an 11-year-old quarter horse, are highly trained and served in the Army's Old Guard at Arlington National Cemetery, according to our news partners at the Miami Herald.

"These guys did their service," Staff Sgt. David Smith told the paper. "It's their time to be a horse."

Their unique role in the U.S. military was that of the caisson horse who would pull the coffins of former officers and service members killed in America's wars to their final grave site.

Both horses would do this eight times a day, every other week, rain or shine.

But both are now considered unsuitable for the task. Quincy is having trouble with his feet and Kennedy acted out too many times.

The horses will be free to two people who pass the strict vetting process.

A herd manager will visit the prospective homes and make sure it's suitable.

Those who apply can also visit the horses on Tuesdays at Fort Myer which is the army installation next to Arlington National Cemetery.

They'll also have to fill out a 6-page application that is available online. Click here to apply.