Caisson Platoon stables host special guests ahead of D.C. sporting events

The 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) Caisson Platoon had some famous guests in the barn.

The East Coast Budweiser Clydesdales were in town last week to make a full-hitch appearance at the Washington Nationals baseball team's home opener and a Washington Capital's game.

The Clydesdales are staying in the Caisson Platoon's stables on the Fort Myer portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall.

Dave Thomas, originally of the Chicago area, has been a member of the Budweiser Clydesdale team for 15 years.

"It's neat to be a part of such an old tradition here with The Old Guard. These are two of the oldest horse units in the country to have been going continuously," said Thomas. "It's pretty cool we get to stay together from time to time."

"It seems like we come back to Fort Myer every couple years," said Thomas. "We enjoy coming and seeing what's going on at the Caisson, the hospitality everyone shows us."

"The facilities here are top notch," said Thomas. "One of the finest around. We always enjoy coming."

The Clydesdales will stay on military bases or mounted police barracks as they make their way across the country for their average 200 yearly appearances.

Thomas grew up showing horses and says getting a job with the Budweiser Clydesdales was his "dream job."

Thomas said that much like the average Soldier in The Old Guard, Budweiser Clydesdales are given a haircut once a week to ensure they are always ready for a photo shoot or ceremony.

Budweiser Clydesdales have shared the stage with The Old Guard twice at Presidential inaugurations. They appeared in 1949 for Missouri native Harry Truman's inaugural parade, and then again in 1993 for Bill Clinton.

For an average appearance, six people work five to six hours to get the Clydesdales ready.

The preparation for an appearance includes braiding the manes and inserting red and white roses.

Thomas said this East Coast team is based out of Merrimack, New Hampshire. It is one of three teams. The other two are based out of St. Louis and Fort Collins, Colorado.

The menu for Clydesdales Ivan, Charlie, Master, Royal, Jack, Lucky, Chuck, Phoenix, Rico, and Nomo includes as much as 20 to 25 quarts of whole grains, minerals and vitamins, 40 to 50 pounds of hay, and 30 gallons of water per day.

Standing about six feet tall at the shoulder, Budweiser Clydesdales weigh between 1,800 and 2,300 pounds on average.

In addition to the eight-hitch horses, Barley the Dalmatian is also an overnight guest.

Dalmatians were introduced as the team's official mascot in 1950.

The Clydesdales were introduced in 1933 after the repeal of Prohibition.

According to Anheuser-Busch's official website, the company owns about 250 Clydesdales, characterizing them as "an enduring symbol of the brewer's heritage, tradition and commitment to quality."

"It's been a few years since we've been back to the D.C. area," said Thomas. "We always enjoy coming."