Disneyland Resort Honors Purple Heart Recipients

The daily flag retreat ceremony in Disneyland park – a beloved tradition since opening day – is one of the many ways we salute those who have served our country, both veterans and those in active duty. It’s not every day that we get to honor a Purple Heart recipient, let alone 11.

On National Purple Heart Day, August 7, Disneyland Resort hosted 11 veterans who have received the prestigious medal in a special version of our daily flag retreat ceremony.  

Joined by their families for a day of fun at Disneyland Resort, the honorees surrounded the flagpole in Town Square on Main Street, U.S.A., hands proudly held over their hearts, as a voiceover paid tribute to “their incredible courage and immense sacrifice while defending freedom.” After the meaningful ceremony, they were each gifted an American flag placed inside a shadow box in gratitude for their service to our nation. 

“It’s a huge honor for us to be here… recognizing those who were wounded making a sacrifice for our country to maintain our freedom and get to enjoy days like this in remembrance,” said Marine Corps Maj. Darryl Ellis. “The recognition that The Walt Disney Company and Disneyland has of our veteran community means the world.”  

The daily flag retreat ceremony at both Disneyland and Magic Kingdom parks reflects the spirit of service that has long been part of Disney’s legacy and dates back to the company’s founding 100 years ago, with Walt and Roy O. Disney both having served their country during World War I. This heartfelt way of honoring National Purple Heart Day underscores Disney’s enduring admiration and gratitude for veterans and military families, paying tribute to those who have displayed extraordinary courage in the line of duty. 

Other ways we salute military service members and veterans year-round include multiple Disneyland Resort offers, including 1-day tickets and multi-day tickets.  

These offers are valid through a U.S. military base ticket office, and eligible U.S. military service members can purchase via GOVX.com. Also not to miss: special rates for military personnel at both Disneyland Resort hotels and our Good Neighbor Hotels. 

Planning tip: Whether you’re visiting with a specially priced military ticket or another Disneyland Resort offer, be sure to plan ahead and check the theme park reservation availability calendar to see if your desired date and theme park are currently available before purchasing a ticket. A theme park reservation will be required for each day of the visit, subject to availability, and can be made up to 180 days in advance.