Every day, for almost 70 years, Disney has paid homage to those who serve and defend the nation through daily flag ceremonies.
As a company founded by strong supporters of the U.S. military, Disney has long had an affinity for those who have served in uniform. Long before they started The Walt Disney Company, Walt and Roy O. Disney both served their country during the First World War. Roy was a petty officer in the U.S. Navy and Walt drove an ambulance for the Red Cross Ambulance Corps.
Held at both Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. and Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif., the popular Flag Retreat offerings give Disney the opportunity to offer sincere gratitude to those who safeguard the nation. The important tradition even continued while both theme parks were closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Disneyland Daily Flag Ceremony
Since the opening day flag raising on July 17, 1955, Disneyland Park’s daily flag ceremonies in Town Square have become a proud tradition. Throughout that time, security cast members have diligently raised and lowered the American flag each day.
Today, this storied ceremony continues with entertainment cast members from the Disneyland Band and Dapper Dans regularly contributing musical performances to bring emotion to the time-honored ritual.
Disneyland has honored countless service members, veterans and their families over the years, including recently saluting 101-year-old World War II veteran, U.S. Army Staff Sgt. “Papa Jake” Larson.
Magic Kingdom Park Daily Flag Retreat Ceremony
Magic Kingdom’s tradition, which has taken place every day since its opening day in 1971, includes cast members selecting a service member or veteran to honor as the “U.S. Armed Forces Representative of the Day” from among that park’s daily visitors. After the flag is lowered, Magic Kingdom cast members line up to shake hands with the special honoree and share their gratitude.
Many special moments have taken place at Magic Kingdom flag ceremonies since opening day, including the chance to honor World War II heroes such as 101-year-old veteran, U.S. Army Col. William “Bill” Connelly.
Cast Members Following in Walt’s Footsteps
Just as this tradition grew from Walt Disney’s patriotism, today, Disney cast members from coast to coast take part in the reflection and gratitude.
Members of Disney’s SALUTE veteran employee resource group often attend these ceremonies, sharing stories from their own time in service.
Every year these veterans are honored at Flag Retreat ceremonies in both Disneyland and Magic Kingdom as part of Disney’s Veterans Day celebrations. The tradition is particularly important to cast members who have served or continue to serve their country today.
As Disney continues to enchant visitors worldwide, the flag ceremonies remain a poignant reminder of the enduring spirit of America.