The Walt Disney Company has a long-standing commitment to supporting military personnel, veterans, and their families. From Walt Disney’s personal experience in World War I to modern employment programs, Disney continues to honor those who have served.
Through initiatives like Shades of Green, the Military Salute Program, and Heroes Work Here, Disney ensures that service members and their families have opportunities for career growth, education, and well-deserved recreation.
Walt Disney’s Service in World War I
Before creating the entertainment empire known today, Walt Disney was determined to serve his country. Although he was too young to enlist, he joined the Red Cross Ambulance Corps at age 17 and was deployed to post-war France in 1918.
His time in the Red Cross instilled a deep respect for military service members and shaped his lifelong dedication to supporting veterans. This commitment became an integral part of Disney’s corporate culture, leading to decades of veteran-focused programs.
Disney’s Role in World War II
During World War II, The Walt Disney Studios played an essential role in supporting the U.S. Armed Forces. The studio designed over 1,200 military insignias, featuring characters like Donald Duck and Mickey Mouse, to boost morale.
Beyond artistic contributions, Disney produced animated propaganda films that encouraged patriotism and war efforts. These initiatives solidified Disney’s reputation as a company that actively supported service members both at home and abroad.
Disney’s Ongoing Support for Veterans and Military Families
Marine Toys for Tots Partnership
For over 75 years, Disney has supported Toys for Tots, a Marine Corps Reserve program that provides gifts to children in need. In 1947, Walt Disney and his team created the Toys for Tots logo, which is still used today.
Since its founding, the program has distributed over 652 million toys to 291 million children, with Disney’s continued support helping to bring holiday joy to military families nationwide.
Flag Retreat Ceremonies at Disney Parks
A beloved tradition at Disneyland and Walt Disney World, the daily Flag Retreat Ceremony honors service members with a patriotic tribute. Veterans attending the parks are often invited to participate, reinforcing Disney’s appreciation for the sacrifices of those who have served.
At Magic Kingdom, a guest is chosen daily as the “Veteran of the Day”, a special moment that celebrates military service in front of park visitors.
Disney’s Submarine Voyage and Military Tribute
When Disneyland’s Submarine Voyage opened in 1959, it honored the U.S. Navy by naming its fleet after real-life Navy vessels. This dedication ceremony, led by Navy Admiral Charles C. Kirkpatrick, was a testament to Disney’s deep-rooted military appreciation.
Today, attractions like Hall of Presidents and Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln continue to educate guests about American history and military service.
Launch of the Veterans Institute
Carving the path forward to expanding access to employment and career training for military members, veterans and their families, The Walt Disney Company launched the Veterans Institute in 2013 to inspire organizations by utilizing actionable insights from The Walt Disney Company’s Heroes Work Here initiative.
The Veterans Institute involves several coordinated events designed to educate organizations on how to improve their methods of outreach, recruitment and training of U.S. military veterans. These summits guide businesses to collaborate and share best practices for transitioning new employees out of military life. The Veterans Institute also plays a critical role in the hiring and training of military spouses.
Promoting diversity and inclusion through SALUTE BERG
In addition to facilitating military service members into civilian life and professional roles, The Walt Disney Company has established the Disney SALUTE Business Employee Resource Group (BERG) for veterans, as well as their friends and family.
The Disney SALUTE BERG places emphasis on social and peer support for those coming to Disney from the military community, providing a sense of belonging for veterans working at the company. The group also provides community service opportunities for its members, enabling them to do what veterans do best: offer service to their country and community.
DOD SkillBridge
Navigating career changes is often challenging, but transitioning out of military life can be a particularly daunting experience. That’s why The Walt Disney Company participates in training programs like the DoD SkillBridge by providing fellowships and career development opportunities for military service members during their last days on active duty.
SkillBridge offers military service members the chance to gain valuable civilian work experience at participating organizations who offer them internships where they can play a contributing role as they prepare to transition from military to civilian life. At Disney, these veterans are placed in fellowships that align with their existing professional experience. These opportunities also encourage participating service members to enhance their skill sets and broaden their career horizons.
Disney’s current veteran support initiatives
Disney’s support for veterans has never faltered. New and innovative programs designed to elevate the education and career opportunities for military personnel and their families continue to be developed today.
Shades of Green
Shades of Green is a U.S. Armed Forces Recreation Center, located on Walt Disney World Resort property. As part of Disney’s salute to service, the company leased the Department of Defense the land for 100 years so that military members and their families would be closest to the magic. It offers accommodations and amenities designed to provide an affordable vacation option with the promise of a Disney adventure.
In addition to easy access to Walt Disney World, Shades of Green features delicious dining options, wellness centers and kid-friendly activities. Guests can also receive exclusive military discounts on theme park tickets, expanding access for more military families to take part in the remarkable world of Disney.
Department of Defense Warrior Games
The Department of Defense Warrior Games is an action-packed celebration that invites wounded service members to showcase their resilience in a series of athletic competitions. Athletes in the DoD Warrior Games put their physicality to the test while cheering on their teammates in a series of adaptive sports events, such as wheelchair basketball, cycling and powerlifting.
Walt Disney World has had the honor of hosting the DoD Warrior Games at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in previous years. The resort will host again in June 2024, providing the ideal venue for the camaraderie and teamwork that the games represent.
Disney’s Military Salute Program
Disney’s Military Salute Program was established by The Walt Disney Company to offer and other exclusive benefits to eligible members of the U.S. military. This veteran discount is designed to show appreciation for the service and sacrifices of military personnel and their families by offering easier access to resorts like Walt Disney World and Disneyland.
Disney’s Commitment to Veteran Employment
Heroes Work Here Initiative
Launched in 2012, the Heroes Work Here program was designed to assist veterans in transitioning. Transitioning from military service to civilian careers. Since its inception, over 15,000 veterans have been hired at The Walt Disney Company.
This initiative recognizes the valuable skills and leadership experience veterans bring to the workplace, helping them build meaningful careers at Disney.
Veterans Institute at Disney
Established in 2013, the Veterans Institute is an educational program. Educating companies on how to recruit, retain, and support veterans in the workforce. Businesses across the country have benefited from Disney’s expertise in veteran employment and career transition support.
Disney SALUTE Business Employee Resource Group (BERG)
The SALUTE BERG program connects Disney employees who have served in the military. This resource group provides networking, career development, and community outreach opportunities. Helping to foster a strong sense of belonging for veterans working at Disney.
DoD SkillBridge Program
Through the Department of Defense SkillBridge Program, Disney offers fellowships for transitioning service members. These opportunities provide on-the-job training in civilian roles, allowing veterans to gain industry experience before officially leaving the military.
Disney’s Military Discounts and Recreation Programs
Shades of Green Resort
Shades of Green. An Armed Forces Recreation Center, is located at Walt Disney World and provides affordable vacation options for military families. In a historic agreement, Disney leased the land to the Department of Defense for 100 years. Ensuring that service members can experience Disney magic at a reduced cost.
With exclusive military discounts on resort stays and theme park tickets. Shades of Green offers a stress-free getaway tailored for military families.
Disney’s Military Salute Program
The Military Salute Program provides specially priced theme park tickets for active-duty personnel, retirees, and their families.
Department of Defense Warrior Games
The DoD Warrior Games is a competition where wounded service members showcase their skills. With adaptive sports events like wheelchair basketball, cycling, and powerlifting.
Held at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Disney has proudly hosted the event and will do so again in June 2024.
Disney’s Commitment to Supporting Military Families
Student Veterans of America Partnership
In November 2023, Disney donated $1 million to Student Veterans of America (SVA) to support veterans transitioning to civilian careers. The donation established the SVA Career Center, helping student veterans find jobs and expand career opportunities.
Fisher House Foundation Contributions
Since 2012, Disney has contributed over $20 million to veteran-focused nonprofits like Fisher House.
Honoring Service for Over a Century
Disney’s support for veterans and military families has spanned over 100 years. Walt Disney’s time in the Red Cross to today’s veteran employment initiatives and military discounts.
With programs like Heroes Work Here, Shades of Green, and the Military Salute Program. Disney continues to show appreciation for those who have served. These efforts ensure that service members and their families receive recognition, opportunities, and unforgettable experiences.
For more details on Disney’s military programs and discounts, visit Disney’s official website.
