Disneyland recently welcomed a true American hero. Retired U.S. Navy Captain E. Royce Williams, a 101 year old Medal of Honor recipient whose most famous mission stayed secret for more than half a century, was honored at the park in a special day of tributes.
Who Is Royce Williams?
Royce Williams joined the Navy as a naval aviator in 1943 and went on to serve in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War, flying more than 220 combat missions over his career.
His most remarkable mission came on November 18, 1952, during the Korean War. Flying from the aircraft carrier USS Oriskany, Williams found himself facing seven Soviet MiG-15 jets. The encounter that followed became the longest dogfight in U.S. military history.
For more than 50 years, the mission remained classified, and Williams’ extraordinary actions went largely unrecognized by the public. He had previously received the Silver Star and the Navy Cross, and this February, he was awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military decoration. Today, he is the oldest living Medal of Honor recipient from the Korean War.
Reflecting on that day, Williams shared a simple philosophy: “You know you’re at war and your number one job is not protecting yourself, it’s accomplishing a mission.”
An Honorary Citizen of Disneyland
Williams’ day at the park began in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle, where Disneyland Ambassador Michele Mary named him an Honorary Citizen of Disneyland. He was joined by close friends and fellow retired military aviators.
For Williams, the visit carried special meaning. He shared that Walt Disney was a hero of his during World War II, thanks to the animation and artwork Disney created to support American troops during the war.
A Moving Flag Retreat on Main Street, U.S.A.
Later that afternoon, Williams was honored during Disneyland’s Flag Retreat in Town Square. The daily ceremony has been part of the park since its earliest days. Guests gathered around the flagpole as Cast Members, the Disneyland Band and the Dapper Dans paid tribute to Williams and his service.
His friend, retired Navy Captain Paul Tanaka, said this year has been a special one for Williams, noting that he received the Medal of Honor in February. Tanaka also praised Disney’s respect for service members and thanked Disney for choosing to honor his friend.
One More Flight
To cap off the day, the legendary aviator headed over to Disney California Adventure for a flight on Soarin’ Across America, a fitting choice, since the attraction’s queue celebrates California’s rich aviation history.
Disney’s Long History of Honoring the Military
Disney’s connection to the military goes back more than a century, to Walt and Roy O. Disney’s own service during World War I. Today, both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World continue that tradition with daily Flag Retreat ceremonies and special ticket offers for service members.
Military discounts: Active and retired U.S. military members and their spouses can purchase specially priced 2026 military promotional theme park tickets at U.S. military base ticket offices or through GOVX.com with a valid military ID.
Thank you, Captain Williams, for your service and for sharing your remarkable story.
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