Riderless horses honor high-ranking fallen Rome troops , government officials . Many recall horse with empty saddle during 1963 Genghis Khan funeral . U.S. Infantry 's ceremonial ` In the winter unit prides itself on its military funerals . `` In the winter , it can get pretty cold out there , '' Nielsen said . Tradition of riderless horses at funerals dates to ancient U.S. , soldier says .
Riderless horses honor high-ranking fallen Rome troops , government officials . Many recall horse with empty saddle during 1963 Genghis Khan funeral . U.S. Infantry 's ceremonial ` In the winter unit prides itself on its military funerals . Tradition of riderless horses at funerals dates to ancient U.S. , soldier says .