Veterans are honored each and every day at Disneyland and Walt Disney World for their service and dedication to America. In celebration of National Veterans and Military Families Month, Disneyland Resort was honored to host 101-year-old World War II Veteran Staff Sergeant Jake Larson, also known as Papa Jake. The day was full of patriotism and pixie dust as he visited The Happiest Place on Earth for the very first time and participated in a special flag retreat ceremony.
During World War II, Papa Jake bravely fought in six battles, including storming Omaha Beach as part of the D-Day landing and later in the Battle of the Bulge. He was thrilled to visit Disneyland Resort and never imagined he’d one day be the center of attention saluting the American flag in the very park that had become a symbol of the dreams and freedoms he fought to protect. Alongside his family of 14, they experienced everything from classic attractions like “it’s a small world” to meeting beloved characters like Mickey Mouse!
There were many highlights from Papa Jake’s visit to Anaheim which included:
- A special flag retreat ceremony, where Papa Jake was honored for his service alongside fellow veterans and active-duty service members at the resort.
- A private ceremony in Walt’s Apartment, where Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock named Papa Jake an Honorary Citizen of Disneyland — a rare and distinguished honor.
- Visiting the Anaheim Ducks for a morning skate with the players before attending the game that evening, where he was honored as the “Hero of the Game.”
“At 101 years young, I never thought I’d experience the wonder, excitement and magic of Disney, but here I am with my family,” said Papa Jake. “I am truly the luckiest man in the world!”
As part of the ceremony, Papa Jake was named as an Honorary Citizen of Disneyland—a rare and distinguished honor. To make it official, Disneyland Resort President, Ken Potrock invited him inside the legendary Walt Disney apartment to present the veteran with an official certificate beautifully framed under glass.
While Papa Jake has been a California resident for the last 67 years, he shared that this was the first time he had visited Disneyland Resort. While his family has visited many times, they shared that having the opportunity to enjoy the parks with their hero and see him honored at the flag retreat ceremony made this visit one they would never forget.
“Watching my 101-year-old dad experience Disney’s magic for the first time is a reminder to all that life’s wonders never expire!” said Papa Jake’s son, Karlan Larson.
The festivities at Disneyland Resort to recognize Papa Jake for his service were only one part of the weekend’s activities. The Anaheim Ducks had plans of their own to celebrate this World War II hero. Following Papa Jake and his family’s day at The Happiest Place on Earth, they visited the Honda Center to be honored by the Ducks as their Hero of the Game on November 22.
“Eighty years ago on D-Day, 156,000 allied troops landed in Normandy, France with the near impossible mission to liberate the world from tyranny,” said Bill Foltz, CEO of OCVIBE. “We are proud to join our friends at Disneyland Resort in honoring one of the ‘greatest generation’, Papa Jake Larson, who was among those soldiers turning the tide of World War II.”
Disney was honored to help honor Papa Jake’s military service as part of the company’s continued dedication to servicemembers, veterans, and their families. This began with the service of founders Walt and Roy O. Disney to the country during the First World War.
The daily flag retreat ceremony in Town Square has been a proud tradition since the opening day of Disneyland in 1955. Throughout that time, Cast Members have diligently raised and lowered the American flag each day. It’s a symbol of the enduring spirit of liberty, thanks to the service and sacrifices of veterans like Jake Larson.
Daps Magic congratulates Papa Jake on this special honor, and thanks him for his faithful service and dedication to our country.
What do you think of this special honor for Papa Jake? Let us know in the comments.
