In honor of Memorial Day, Disneyland went from the “Happiest Place on Earth” to one of the most patriotic. A group of 100 U.S. Navy sailors and Marines were surprised with a day at the iconic American theme park while in port for Los Angeles Fleet Week.
The service members had the chance to experience Disneyland’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Mickey’s Toontown before taking part in a flag retreat with the Dapper Dans, the Disneyland Band and honored guest Rear Admiral Richard W. Meyer, Deputy Commander of the U.S. Third Fleet.
Ahead of Memorial Day Weekend, 100 U.S. Navy Sailors and Marines in port for Los Angeles Fleet Week were surprised with a day at Disneyland. (The Walt Disney Company)
U.S. Marine Corps veteran Ariel Elias, who now works as a category manager at Disneyland, praised the company for its embracing of veterans.
“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 Veterans Day to Fleet Week 2025—it’s always at the forefront of what we do here every day,” Elias said.
Ahead of Memorial Day Weekend, Disneyland hosted 100 service members and set up a table honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. (The Walt Disney Company)
Disney also has programs dedicated to the veterans who work for the company, including the Heroes Work Here initiative, which focuses on hiring, training, and supporting U.S. military veterans and military spouses. Additionally, since 2012 Disney has donated more than $20 million to organizations assisting veterans and their families.
