August 7, 2025, is National Purple Heart Day. For this special day, the Disneyland Resort invited 11 Purple Heart recipients to the Happiest Place on Earth and experience the offerings of the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. They were also recognized for their service and sacrifice in a special version of our daily flag retreat ceremony.
Throughout the day, the Purple Heart recipients enjoyed their day at the Disneyland Resort. In the late afternoon, they joined other veterans in Town Square on Main Street, U.S.A. as they stood around the flagpole. During the ceremony, they were given tribute for “their incredible courage and immense sacrifice while defending freedom.” Each was also gifted an American flag that was placed in a shadow box in gratitude for their service to the United States of America.
“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.” Major Ellis was one of the Purple Heart recipients who was on hand during the patriotic flag retreat, which can be seen below.
The patriotic flag retreat is a daily tradition at Disneyland and Magic Kingdom. This daily moment honors those who sacrifice and serve their country. It also continues a legacy that dates back over 100 years ago when the founders of The Walt Disney Company, Walt and Roy O. Disney, both served their country during World War I. On National Purple Heart Day, Disney continued to show its dedication, admiration, and gratitude for veterans and military families, paying tribute to those who have displayed extraordinary courage in the line of duty.
National Purple Heart Day Patriotic Flag Retreat at Disneyland
Beyond the daily honoring of veterans during the patriotic flag retreat, Disney salutes military service members and eligible veterans year-round. This includes multiple Disneyland Resort offers, including 1-day tickets, multi-day tickets, and special rates at both Disneyland Resort hotels and Good Neighbor Hotels. The offers are available at a U.S. military base ticket office. Eligible U.S. military service members can purchase at GovX.com.
Disney also partners with service members and veterans through its Heroes Work Here program. This is a company-wide initiative to hire, train, and support returning veterans. More information about Heroes Work Here can be found here.
What do you think of this special way to honor Purple Heart recipients on National Purple Heart Day? Have you experienced the patriotic flag retreat at Disneyland or Magic Kingdom? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
