Every day at Disneyland, there is a beautiful patriotic moment that happens in Town Square. This is the patriotic Flag Retreat ceremony, where the stars and stripes are retired for the day until the rising of the new dawn. This ceremony sees the Disneyland Resort Security Honor Guard lowering the flag of the United States of America and the California state flag. Recently, a 100-year-old veteran was honored during this ceremony.
Charles Cram recently celebrated his 100th birthday. The World War II veteran, who fought at Iwo Jima, was honored by those in attendance for this very special day.
Charles, a native of Santa Monica, was in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He was a Pharmacist’s Mate Second Class. He was also a decorated combat medic who was attached to the 5th Marine Division. He served with distinction, including during the battle of Iwo Jima, one of the most significant battles of the Pacific during the war.
Charles landed on Iwo Jima with his company of 250 Marines on February 19, 1945. At the time, he was just 17 years old. He was there and personally witnessed the raising of the American flag atop Mount Suribachi. This is a moment that was captured and recognized as one of the most iconic photographs of World War II. It would later be memorialized at the Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, Virginia. For his bravery and the combat injuries he sustained, Charles would earn a Silver Star, Bronze Star, and a Purple Heart.
“We would see the flag go up on Mount Suribachi because Suribachi apparently was 500-700 feet up in the air. There was an ex-volcano. We thought that was going to be the end of the war, but it wasn’t.” Charles stated. “I didn’t know what I was witnessing at that moment, but I was in the middle of history.”
Charles was welcomed to The Happiest Place on Earth with his family by cast members. They were honored with a spot to watch the Celebrate Happy Cavalcade as Disneyland continues to celebrate its 70th anniversary. Charles and his family were also greeted by Donald Duck, who was known for boosting service members’ morale during World War II.
A beautiful moment happened in the Sleeping Beauty Castle Gardens when Charles was presented with a shadow box with an American Flag that had been flown over Disneyland. This was given to Charles in appreciation for his honorable and heroic service to the United States of America.
In the late afternoon, people assembled around the flagpole in Town Square on Main Street, U.SA. This was for the patriotic Flag Retreat ceremony. This particular ceremony celebrated Charles. This daily tradition is a beautiful moment that dates back to the earliest days of Disneyland. Each day, security cast members raise and lower the American flag. This ceremony is a beautiful and moving ceremony that generally includes the Disneyland Band, Dapper Dans, and the honoring of those who are serving or have served the United States of America. Here is a video of a recent Flag Retreat (not with Charles Cram):
This daily moment is made even more special with the attendance of veterans like Charles Cram. It is their dedication and sacrifices that make moments like these possible. This tradition stands firmly as a testament to the enduring spirit of liberty.
“Celebrating our father’s 100th birthday at Disneyland is a once-in-a-lifetime gift for our family,” said Candace Audick, daughter of Charles. “As a proud member of the Greatest Generation, a decorated war hero, and the heart of our family, he’s our rock star. To see him here — surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, with that same twinkle in his eye from when we visited as kids over 65 years ago — is simply priceless. This moment, filled with love, legacy, and joy, is one we will cherish forever.”
Enduring Legacy
The Walt Disney Company has a long tradition of honoring members of the military of the United States of America. This dates back to World War I, when Disney’s founder Walt Disney and Roy O. Disney both served. They carried their dedication to the country with them throughout the rest of their lives. This could be seen when Disneyland opened in 1955, and the tradition of the daily Flag Retreat ceremonies began, which was accompanied by the honoring of those who serve or have served.
Disney continues the legacy of honoring service members and their families in many different ways. There is a Heroes Work Here initiative to hire, train, and support U.S. military veterans, transitioning service members, and their spouses. This initiative began in 2012. For these heroes who want to experience the magic as guests, there are discounts that are offered. The Disneyland Resort has specially priced promotional theme park tickets for active and retired U.S. Military members (and their spouses) in 2026. These offers are available via a U.S. Military base ticket office, and eligible service members/veterans can purchase them at GOVX.com with a valid Military ID.
Disney continues to show its commitment to honor service members, veterans, and their families daily. This year is extra special as Disney Celebrates America, a company-wide celebration that commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. This includes the debut of Soarin’ Over America at EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort and Disney California Adventure at the Disneyland Resort.
What do you think of this special day with Charles Cram? Have you experienced the patriotic Flag Retreat ceremony before? What is your favorite part of this tradition of honoring service members? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
