100 U.S. Navy Sailors and Marines were surprised this week with a day at the Disneyland Resort. This comes as Los Angeles Fleet Week is being celebrated and ahead of Memorial Day. Disney has a deep relationship with the U.S. military, veterans, and their families. This dates back to the company’s founders, both of whom served their country during World War I. Los Angeles Fleet Week is an annual multi-day celebration of the United States’ Sea Services. It is held at the LA Waterfront at the Port of Los Angeles over the Memorial Day Weekend.
During the visit of the U.S. military members, they were able to experience attractions throughout the Disneyland Resort. This included attractions and experiences in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Mickey’s Toontown. They also participated in a special flag retreat along the Dapper Dans, Disneyland Band, and honored guest, Rear Admiral Richard W. Meyer, Deputy Commander of the U.S. Third Fleet. 
“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 Veteran’s Day to Fleet Week 2025—it’s always at the forefront of what we do here every day,” said Ariel Elias, category manager, Disneyland Resort, and U.S. Marine Corps veteran.
For over 100 years, Disney has continued the legacy that started with founders Walt and Roy O. Disney when they served their country during World War I. This legacy inspired the daily flag retreat ceremonies at both Disneyland and Magic Kingdom. This is just one way that Disney continues to salute the U.S. military service.
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?” said Rear Admiral Richard W. Meyer, Deputy Commander of the U.S. Third Fleet, U.S. Navy. “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 get to show off the Sailors and Marines to the community — that’s what made this a really special day.”
Disneyland has been saluting service members since it opened in 1955 with the patriotic flag retreat. Each day, along with lowering the flag, veterans are honored during the ceremony. Even before Disneyland opened, Walt Disney involved veterans in the creation of the park. This included Disney Legend and U.S. Navy veteran, Admiral Joe Fowler. Admiral Fowler’s name and memory live on with Fowler’s Harbor. This dry dock area in Frontierland was named in honor of the Admiral.
During the Memorial Day weekend, Missing Hero Tables honors and remembers the fallen at Disneyland Resort, Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa, along with backstage locations at Walt Disney World. These are reminders to those who see them of those heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.
