Main Street USA Flag Retreat Ceremony
Today our American friends and family all across the country are celebrating the events that set our forefathers to creating what is now an independent nation. While most will celebrate with BBQ, Beer and Fireworks (a worthy celebration if I've ever heard of one) some will recall with their families what has gone in to creating the United States of America.
Happy Fourth of July
Walt Disney believed strongly in Patriotism, it was one of the seven cardinal virtues that he came to honor as a young man in the Order of DeMolay. His belief in the ideals that America was founded on were so much a apart of his identity that they shown through in his parks fondly depicting the Presidents of the United States; the idealized history that he as a master storyteller could not only tell to people, but allow them to experience. Walt Disney was devoted to America and many parts of his parks play out as a love letter to his country's spirit.
Many of us will never be called to the defense of this nation on the field of battle, but each day affords new opportunities to proclaim ourselves good and upright citizens. Each day at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom they celebrate the people who have made this country strong. Guests gather nightly 5:00 PM to watch the Flag Retreat Ceremony in Town Square. Join us today in watching that ceremony as it was performed one year ago on the Fourth of July.
For me, it doesn't matter what day of the year it happens to be, I get teary-eyed watching this ceremony. My heart swells with pride and I am still proud to be an American. It's so special to me that Disney Parks still acknowledge the ideals that Walt held dear and that every night you too can pay your respects.
Have you ever stopped to watch the Flag Ceremony at the Magic Kingdom? Do you get all misty? Leave a comment to let me know and have a fantastic Fourth of July!
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JoAnn C wrote on Wed, 07/04/2012 - 13:09:
I haven't seen the flag retreat, but I will certainly try to this year.
Paula B. wrote on Wed, 07/04/2012 - 14:47:
Saw the post heading and watched the video before I had read all you wrote, yes, I cried. Always so moving to watch this ceremony and I was thinking of my dad and his comrades in World War II - how much the Fourth did mean to them! Here's to all the men and women who serve to keep us safe each and every day. Thanks for sharing.
Jan wrote on Wed, 07/04/2012 - 16:57:
I love th Flag ceremony. I last saw it several years ago and they would release white doves at the end(if I am remembering correctly). How do they choose the armed forces person to assist in the ceremony? Is there a way to nominate someone to participate in it when they are there on vacation? I have a very special friend inundate. Thank you.
Kristen K. wrote on Wed, 07/04/2012 - 18:06:
Jan - I'm not sure how they choose these days. You used to be able to volunteer but I don't think they do that anymore. The doves are gone these days, the local Redtail Hawks caught on to the time that they were released every day and lets just say that the result wasn't very Disney. Unless you're talking nature special.
Jan wrote on Wed, 07/04/2012 - 23:58:
Thanks, Kristen, for the updated information. We will check out the Flag Ceremony in October. I will look into how you are able to have someone be a part of the Flag Ceremony. Happy Fourth!
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