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Disneyland Salutes 100-Year-Old Iwo Jima Veteran in Emotional Flag Retreat
The daily Flag Retreat ceremony at Town Square on Main Street, U.S.A. carried profound significance this week as the park honored veteran Charles Cram. The World War II hero, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday, was recognized during the emotional ceremony for his incredible century of life and service.
A Witness to History
A Santa Monica native, Charles served as a Pharmacist’s Mate Second Class in the U.S. Navy during World War II. A decorated combat medic attached to the 5th Marine Division; he was among those who fought at Iwo Jima — one of the most pivotal battles of the Pacific.
On Feb. 19, 1945, Charles, then just 17 years old, landed on Iwo Jima along with his company of 250 Marines. After four days in Iwo Jima, Charles personally witnessed the raising of the American flag atop Mount Suribachi—a moment captured in one of the most iconic photographs of World War II and later memorialized at the Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, Virginia. Charles earned the Silver Star, Bronze Star, and Purple Heart for his bravery and combat injuries.
“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.”
Honoring an American Hero at Disneyland Resort
Disneyland cast members warmly welcomed Charles and his family where they enjoyed Sleeping Beauty Castle and a special viewing of The Celebrate Happy Cavalcade. Donald Duck, known for boosting morale among U.S. service members during World War II through animation, unit art, and patriotic storytelling, also greeted them.
During an emotional moment in the Sleeping Beauty Castle Gardens, Charles was presented with a special gift; a shadow box with an American Flag that had been flown over the iconic theme park in appreciation for his valiant service to our nation.
In the glow of the late afternoon sun on Main Street, U.S.A., people assembled around the Town Square flagpole to take part in a special ceremony celebrating Charles. Since Disneyland’s earliest days, the daily Flag Retreat in Town Square has been an enduring tradition. Security cast members have faithfully raised and lowered the American flag each day. The ceremony features moving musical performances from entertainment cast, including the Disneyland Band and Dapper Dans, adding emotion to this cherished event. This tradition stands as a testament to the lasting spirit of liberty, made possible by the dedication and sacrifices of veterans like Charles Cram.
“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.”
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