Disneyland Honors Medal of Honor Recipient Royce Williams

Disneyland Resort recently hosted a special recognition for retired U.S. Navy Capt. E. Royce Williams, a 101-year-old Congressional Medal of Honor recipient. Williams, who served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, is the oldest living Medal of Honor recipient from the Korean War.

What’s new

During his visit, Williams was named an Honorary Citizen of Disneyland by the Disneyland Ambassador in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle. This rare distinction was followed by a special Flag Retreat ceremony in Town Square on Main Street, U.S.A. The ceremony featured the Disneyland Band and the Dapper Dans, who performed as part of the tribute to Williams’ military service, which included flying over 220 combat missions.

Following the ceremonies, Williams visited Disney California Adventure park for a flight on Soarin' Around the World (referred to in the source as Soarin' Across America). The attraction’s queue features a tribute to California’s aviation history, a field in which Williams played a significant role; he was involved in the longest dogfight in U.S. military history in 1952, a mission that remained classified for five decades.

When and where

The events took place at both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. While this specific tribute was a one-time event, the Flag Retreat ceremony remains a daily tradition at Disneyland Park.

Additionally, Disneyland Resort is offering specially priced promotional theme park tickets throughout 2026 for active and retired U.S. military members and their spouses. These tickets are available through U.S. military base ticket offices or online via GOVX.com for those with a valid military ID.

What it means for your visit

For guests planning a trip, the daily Flag Retreat ceremony in Town Square is a consistent opportunity to witness Disney’s military tributes. According to Williams, "You know you’re at war and your number one job is not protecting yourself it’s accomplishing a mission."

If you are a service member or veteran, you should check eligibility for the 2026 promotional tickets before your visit, as these must be purchased through specific military channels rather than standard ticket booths. For general guests, be aware that the Flag Retreat typically occurs in the late afternoon; checking the daily entertainment schedule upon arrival will ensure you can find a spot around the flagpole in Town Square to watch the ceremony.

Source: Disney Parks Blog