Disney is celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States with “Disney Celebrates America.” This has seen the company make a special appearance in the 137th Rose Parade, the announcement of Soarin’ Across America arriving later this spring/summer, and more. Today, Disney shared that the Portraits of Courage: A Commander in Chief’s Tribute to America’s Warriors exhibit will remain at the American Adventure Pavilion at EPCOT through the 4th of July weekend as part of the celebration.
“I am grateful these portraits of our nation’s service members, painted by their former Commander-in-Chief, will continue to be available for guests to view at the American Adventure Pavilion at Disney’s EPCOT,” said Jason Galui, Director of Veterans and Military Families at the George W. Bush Institute. “Sharing veterans’ stories reminds all of us of their incredible courage, sacrifice, and resilience in defense of our nation – and of their continued contributions to our communities beyond their time in uniform.”
Portraits of Courage debuted at EPCOT in June 2024. It features over 60 vibrant oil paintings by former President George W. Bush. It portrays post-9/11 service members and veterans. This exhibit honors their courage and resilience. It also showcases the George W. Bush Institute’s Veterans and Military Families program.
During the semiquincentennial celebration of the United States of America, Disney will continue to honor U.S. military service members, veterans, and their families. This continues a commitment to the country and those who defend its freedom that dates back over 100 years to Disney’s founders.
With the extension of this exhibit, Disney has shared more about the exhibit and also one of the servicemembers who is featured in one of President George W. Bush’s paintings. U.S. Marine Corps Corporal Dave Smith is one of the servicemembers found in the exhibit. He served from 2003 to 2007. This included combat tours in Iraq with 1st Battalion, 4th Marines. Disney shared that he took his family to EPCOT this week, where they saw the Portraits of Courage exhibit. Appropriately enough, this was on Presidents’ Day.
Dave shared that after his time in the military, he found adjusting to civilian life challenging. He also emphasized that veterans shouldn’t shy away from seeking help with mental health if needed. Dave said that asking for help is not a weakness, but a foundation of strength.
Dave shared how his portrait symbolizes those who stood with him abroad and at home. This included friends, volunteers, supporters, and especially family. All of these people provided love and strength to help him readjust to civilian life. He also shared how the paintings embodied the steadfast support of loved ones, including his wife, during those difficult times.
Today, Dave is grateful to have received the valuable support and is thriving. He shared his appreciation for the support he received from the Bus Institute. He never anticipated that one day, a U.S. President would honor him with something as special as painting a portrait of him. The recognition marked the beginning of a new chapter of his life.
“To stand there with my family at Disney, looking at a portrait of me painted by a President of the United States, is incredibly humbling. I’m deeply honored — but more than anything, I’m grateful: grateful to have served, grateful to have healed, and grateful to share this moment with my family, knowing the best chapters of our lives are still being written.”
“It is an honor for the Bush Center and the service members depicted in the Portraits of Courage exhibit to share their stories with the millions of visitors to the American Adventure pavilion at Disney’s EPCOT,” said Shilo Brooks, president and CEO of the George W. Bush Presidential Center. “Recognizing the sacrifice and endurance of veterans, service members, and their families is a pivotal part of commemorating the 250 years of our nation’s history.”
What do you think of the extension of the Portraits of Courage exhibit at EPCOT? Have you seen it in person before? What was your favorite piece? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
