Disneyland honored 100 U.S. Navy Sailors and Marines with a special Memorial Day celebration, continuing the theme park’s longstanding tradition of recognizing military service that dates back to its founding.
At a Glance
- Disneyland welcomed 100 service members from the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps as part of Los Angeles Fleet Week
- The military guests received special access to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Mickey’s Toontown attractions
- A flag retreat ceremony featured performances by the Dapper Dans, Disneyland Band, and honored Rear Admiral Richard W. Meyer
- Disney has maintained daily flag ceremonies since 1955, even during the COVID-19 pandemic
- The company has donated over $20 million to veteran support organizations since 2012
The Happiest Place on Earth Salutes American Heroes
Disneyland Resort welcomed 100 U.S. Navy Sailors and Marines to the Anaheim theme park ahead of Memorial Day weekend, providing them with a day of special access and recognition as part of Los Angeles Fleet Week celebrations.
The service members enjoyed exclusive opportunities to experience popular attractions, including the immersive Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and the recently reimagined Mickey’s Toontown. This special event highlighted Disney’s ongoing commitment to honoring military personnel, a value that has been central to the company since its inception.
The memorable day concluded with a traditional flag retreat ceremony, where the Disneyland Band and the Dapper Dans performed patriotic music while service members participated in the solemn lowering of the American flag. Rear Admiral Richard W. Meyer attended the ceremony, representing naval leadership and acknowledging the significance of the day’s events for the visiting military personnel.
Military Appreciation Built Into Disney’s Foundation
The special day of recognition reflects Disney’s deep-rooted respect for military service, a tradition that began with founders Walt and Roy O. Disney, who both served in World War I. This commitment has manifested through daily flag ceremonies conducted without interruption since Disneyland’s opening in 1955. Even during the unprecedented closures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Disney security cast members maintained the flag-raising tradition at parks like Magic Kingdom, demonstrating the company’s unwavering respect for national symbols.
“How many times in your life do you have the opportunity to actually get to participate in the events that are happening at Disneyland, the happiest place on Earth? To be able to come here, share that with the public, participate in the events, get to see some of the cool new things at Disneyland, and really get to show off the Sailors and Marines to the community—it’s really a chance to do that and I think that’s what made this a really special day.”, said Rear Admiral Richard W. Meyer.
During the Memorial Day weekend, Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World, and Aulani in Hawaii also featured “Missing Hero Tables” throughout their dining locations. These displays serve as powerful reminders of the fallen service members who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country, providing guests with a moment of reflection amid their vacation experiences. The tables represent an important element of Disney’s broader Memorial Day observances.
Disney’s Ongoing Support for Military Families
Beyond special events and symbolic gestures, Disney has established concrete programs to support veterans and military families. The company’s “Heroes Work Here” initiative specifically focuses on hiring and supporting U.S. military veterans and their families, creating career opportunities for those who have served. Since 2012, Disney has contributed more than $20 million to organizations dedicated to supporting veterans and military families, demonstrating a financial commitment to this cause.
“Disney really embraces our veterans, and it’s been part of the DNA of the Disneyland Resort. You see it everywhere you go—from the flag retreat to Veterans Day to Fleet Week 2025—it’s always at the forefront of what we do here every day.”, said Ariel Elias.
Ariel Elias, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who now works at Disneyland, has personally experienced this support. Her testimony reflects how Disney’s commitment to veterans extends beyond public ceremonies into workplace culture and daily operations. Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro has emphasized this commitment, noting that regardless of changing world circumstances, the company’s dedication to American values and symbols remains steadfast and visible through traditions like the daily flag ceremonies.
