The Equine in War

The equine has been a part of warfare since approximately 4,000-3,000 BC (historical dates vary). They always have played a role within our history by riding into battle. Nowadays, the formal horse cavalry has dwindled almost to non-existent.

The above picture is Reckless (equine) with her main caretaker (US Marine Sergeant Joseph Latham). The photographer is USMC; sources are Geer, Andrew Clare. Reckless, the pride of the Marines, 1955.

The confirmation of the horse/equine determined where they were put into the field. A lightweight horse, meaning 12-15 hands and weighing approximately 1 thousand pounds, they were meant to move quickly with few items to carry (weapons, people, or tack). An example of this type of horse is an Arabian. A heavyweight horse, meaning 1,500 lbs with a calm demeanor, was meant to pull heavyweight items (armory, people, or other animals). An example of this type of horse is a draught horse.

Let's not forget about the ponies, donkeys, and mules! They were required to make it through all weather elements while packing equipment.

When these animals were trained, they were taught with little rein control. The focus was on the legs, balance, and weights from different armor. The people needed their hands for their weapons. The equine that would be in the close combat areas were taught to kick, bite, and strike at other humans when their rider commanded them. They had to learn to accept the noises, smell of blood, and the chaos within the battle.

The front line of the cavalry horses suffered from artillery fire, skin disorders, poison gases, and other issues. Many were treated by veterinaries and were sent back because of the value they carried for the cavalry. They were such a big part that they were sometimes commemorated by memorials, documentaries, novels, and/or in war poetry.

Unfortunately, some equine died during the war in unforgiving ways. The pack equine would get stuck in the mud with the loads unable to move. They would get stuck with all the supplies still attached to them making it unforgiving. Another cause was the shortage of food. One horse, for example, ate poker chips because they were hungry and willing to eat anything. When the equine was able to be seen by a veterinarian, they would be taken off the field of line and the veterinary ambulance would come in a horse-drawn wagon commonly.

Thank you to all that helped our land get to where it is now. Wishing a happy Independence Day to the United States. Thanks for joining the Equidae Family and check us out on social media!