Gentle giants greet troops, Families

By Spc. Emily Knitter, 1HBCT Public AffairsMarch 29, 2012

Clysdale
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT STEWART, Ga. - Eight of the most recognizable icons in American culture paraded through the Fort Stewart Post Exchange parking lot, March 14.

As crowds gathered on the sidewalks with cameras flashing, the Budweiser Clydesdale horses pulled the fire engine red wagon complete with the popular brewery's signature Dalmatian, around the parking lot before pausing by the entrance for pictures.

The Clydesdales, who were in the area prior to taking part in the Savannah St. Patrick's Day Parade, made a special appearance to show their support of the troops.

"We are very grateful for everything [Soldiers] do," said horse handler Kat Cockrell. "We are honored to be here with the horses."

The team, who is based out of St. Louis, Mo., are on the road more than 250 days out of the year. During their visit to Fort Stewart, the horses were hosted by Bits N' Bridles Stables on post."[Having the Clydesdales here] is great for morale," said Lindsey Hagood, the stables' vice president. "They are taking time out of their schedules to come here, which is great."

The stable which is currently only available to privately owned horses, opened their doors to the public last week to allow a meet-and-great with the gigantic horses, which on average stand more than six- feet- tall just at their backs.

"We are hoping that [hosting the Clydesdales] will let the community know we are here, and what we do," said Hagood. "We are hoping that with more publicity and attention we may be able to expand [the stables] so that the community can be more involved in horse activities and with the equines themselves, because they really are awesome animals."

On March 17, the stables bid farewell to their famous guests as the team traveled up the road to parade in what was the largest St. Patrick's Day celebration on Savannah's record, with more than one million people in attendance. If you missed them this year, keep an eye out in the future, because this will not be the last time the Budweiser Clydesdales make a big showing at Fort Stewart.