48 Days to Go! Disney’s Deep Connection to the U.S. Military 🇺🇸

Flying high off the excitement from Disney’s recent announcement celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, today’s countdown post dives into something truly meaningful: The Walt Disney Company’s long-standing connection to the U.S. military.

In April 2025, Disney released a heartfelt article titled “Inside Disney: Daily Salute to Service.” If you’ve ever been in the parks as the sun begins to set, you may have noticed a ceremony unfolding at the flagpole. And yes—it happens every single day. According to Disney, in the 70 years since the parks first opened, almost every day a daily Flag Retreat ceremony has honored service members, veterans, and military families.

If you’re not a Disney history buff or part of a military family, you might wonder: why is this tradition so important?

Well, Disney’s military support runs deep. Roy Disney served as a naval petty officer during World War I, and Walt joined the Red Cross Ambulance Corps. That sense of service and pride is woven into the company’s DNA—and it continues to shine through in their daily operations and special events.

✨ Coast-to-Coast Traditions

Even during the 2020 COVID-19 park closures, Disney didn’t pause its tribute. The Flag Retreat tradition carried on—quietly, respectfully, and consistently. (check out a video here https://www.instagram.com/p/B-cNXSwjnDO/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link )

• At Disneyland, security cast members raise and lower the flag each day, often joined by the Disneyland Band and the Dapper Dans. Over the years, they’ve honored countless veterans and military families in this moving ceremony.

• At Magic Kingdom, the tradition is even more interactive. Since opening day, cast members have selected a “U.S. Armed Forces Representative of the Day” from among park guests. That honored visitor assists with the Flag Retreat ceremony—yes, every single day!

  
  

🎖️ Disney’s SALUTE Program

Beyond the parks, Disney also honors its veteran employees through the SALUTE program. Each year around Veterans Day, cast members who’ve served in the military are invited to participate in special celebrations. I had the chance to witness this firsthand in Disneyland in 2023—and while my photos don’t do it justice, the magic and reverence surrounding the Flag Retreat were unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.

It was truly unforgettable.

Have you ever taken part in a Disney Flag Retreat? I’d love to hear your story! Drop a comment or share your experience—let’s celebrate the magic and meaning behind this beautiful tradition.

#DisneyCountdown #48DaysToGo #DisneySalutesService #FlagRetreat #DisneyHistory #VeteransDayMagic #TravelWithJillian #DisneyMilitaryTribute #FamilyTravel