Disney’s Daily Salute to Service. For nearly 70 years, Disney parks have quietly honored U.S. military members with daily flag ceremonies, a tradition rooted in the founders’ service.
Why it matters: This long-standing practice underscores Disney’s deep connection to the armed forces and provides a daily moment of gratitude at its iconic theme parks.
Key details:
- Decades of Dedication: Since Disneyland opened in 1955 and Walt Disney World in 1971, daily Flag Retreat ceremonies have been a fixture.
- Founder’s Footsteps: Walt and Roy O. Disney both served in the military during World War I, establishing a company culture of respect for service members.
- Uninterrupted Homage: The tradition continued even during the COVID-19 pandemic closures.
- Local Flair: In Disneyland, security cast members initially managed the ceremonies, which now often feature musical performances by the Disneyland Band and Dapper Dans.
- Honoring Individuals: Magic Kingdom selects a visiting service member or veteran as the “U.S. Armed Forces Representative of the Day” for special recognition.
- Cast Involvement: Members of Disney’s SALUTE veteran employee resource group actively participate in and attend these ceremonies.
- Veterans Day Focus: The Flag Retreat ceremonies take on added significance during Disney’s annual Veterans Day celebrations.
Notable moments: Both parks have honored numerous veterans, including centenarian World War II veterans like U.S. Army Staff Sgt. “Papa Jake” Larson and U.S. Army Col. William “Bill” Connelly.
The bottom line: These daily tributes serve as a consistent reminder of patriotism and Disney’s enduring appreciation for those who serve the nation.
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.
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.
Disney’s Daily Salute to Service
