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Walt Disney World honors 101-year-old veteran on his birthday

Feb 1, 2026, 7:00 AM20
(Update: Feb 3, 2026, 2:34 PM)
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Walt Disney World honors 101-year-old veteran on his birthday

  • The Magic Kingdom hosted a special flag retreat ceremony for Herb Maneloveg on January 25, 2026.
  • Maneloveg was honored for his service during World War II, where he earned a Purple Heart.
  • Disney continues to reinforce its commitment to honoring veterans through commemorative events.
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In Lake Buena Vista, Florida, Walt Disney World Resort celebrated the 101st birthday of World War II veteran Herb Maneloveg on January 25. The event featured a flag retreat ceremony at the Magic Kingdom, which included a procession down Main Street, where distinguished Disney characters such as Mickey and Minnie Mouse welcomed Maneloveg and his family. The celebration was significant for Maneloveg, who has a history of service during World War II, where he was wounded and later received a Purple Heart for his bravery. The heartfelt event demonstrated Disney's ongoing commitment to honoring military veterans, a tradition rooted in the company’s founding history, as both Walt and Roy O. Disney served during World War I. Attending family members expressed their admiration and gratitude for the celebration, highlighting Maneloveg's dual role as a serviceman and a devoted family man. The ceremony also underscored the broader significance of recognizing veterans, emphasizing the importance of military service and sacrifice. Maneloveg reflected on his experiences and was deeply appreciative of the warm reception and the emphasis on family. This heartfelt tribute was a testament to Disney's legacy of supporting and honoring American military members. Walt Disney World continues its tradition of selecting a guest to represent the U.S. Armed Forces during daily flag services, showcasing a consistent respect for those who have served in the military. Disney's respect for veterans has been a cornerstone of its community engagement initiatives, echoing its historical ties to military service, which commenced with the founders' involvement in World War I. In a parallel celebration, the RAF honored another veteran, 103-year-old Molly Gillon, who served as a radar operator in World War II, illustrating a continued recognition of the sacrifices made by veterans, regardless of their role during the conflict.

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