The Old Guard Caisson Platoon Coffee Mug

The 3d Infantry, traditionally known as THE OLD GUARD is the oldest active-duty infantry regiment, serving the US since 1784. Many of the soldiers have served elsewhere before joining this ceremonial elite unit. Many have seen combat and have been awarded the medals and badges which they wear proudly. The soldiers in this special unit ride the only remaining official Army horses. Their primary mission is the honor of carrying a comrade for his last ride to Arlington National Cemetery, where he will rest in peace with other honored heroes who have protected and defended the freedoms of the free world. Most of these soldiers come to Ft. Myer, Virginia not as an expert horseman, but as trained infantrymen. A new member of this team must undergo rigorous training. In addition to caring for the horses, they must learn to ride at the erect posture of solemn military attention in a military forward position and sitting in a McClellan saddle. Other duties that the Caisson Platoon participates in includes numerous historic pageants performed by the Old Guard, among these are "Spirit of America", and "Twilight Tattoo".