Why Disneyland’s latest Honorary Citizen is a 101-year-old Medal of Honor aviator
A 101-year-old Medal of Honor recipient was honored at Disneyland, from Sleeping Beauty Castle to a flight on Soarin’ at DCA.
Disneyland’s newest honorary moment did not center on a character meet or a ride debut. It focused on retired U.S. Navy Capt. E. Royce Williams, a 101-year-old Medal of Honor recipient whose visit tied Disney history, military service and a very fitting flight at Disney California Adventure into one remarkable day.
1. He was officially named an Honorary Citizen of Disneyland
Williams was recently recognized at Disneyland Resort, where he was made an Honorary Citizen of Disneyland in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle. The honor was presented by Disneyland Ambassador Michele Mary, with Williams joined by close friends and fellow retired military aviators.
The recognition carried extra weight because Williams is the oldest living Medal of Honor recipient from the Korean War. For Disney fans, it was one of those rare park moments where Disneyland’s ceremonial traditions met a life story far bigger than any single attraction.
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2. His military record helps explain why the resort spotlighted him
Williams joined the U.S. Navy as a naval aviator in 1943 and served across World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. One of the defining episodes of his service came on Nov. 18, 1952, during the Korean War, when seven Soviet MiG-15 fighter jets appeared while he was flying from the USS Oriskany.
That encounter became the longest dogfight in U.S. military history. Over the course of his career, Williams flew more than 220 combat missions and received the Medal of Honor, the Silver Star and the Navy Cross for valor, devotion to duty and aviation service.
3. The Disney connection ran deeper than the ceremony
Being named an official Citizen of Disneyland had a personal Disney link for Williams. He shared that Walt Disney had been his hero during World War II because of the animation and artwork created in support of the troops.
That detail gives the Disneyland honor an especially intriguing angle. This was not simply a recognition inside a Disney park. It was also a tribute that connected Williams to someone he had long admired, making the setting itself part of the story.
4. Disneyland followed the castle presentation with a Flag Retreat tribute
Later that afternoon, Disneyland held a special Flag Retreat ceremony in Williams’ honor. Cast members, the Disneyland Band and the Dapper Dans all took part in recognizing his service and legacy.
Retired U.S. Navy Capt. Paul Tanaka, identified as a friend of Williams, said the year had already been significant because Williams received the Congressional Medal of Honor in February. He also said Disney’s decision to honor him during the Flag Retreat reflected a deep respect and commitment toward service members, and that the occasion would be a lasting memory for Williams.
5. The visit ended with a very Disney version of returning to the skies
After the Flag Retreat, Williams was treated to a ride on Soarin’ at Disney California Adventure. The choice made the day come full circle, linking a celebrated naval aviator with one of Disney’s best-known flying experiences.
Williams viewed the attraction as a meaningful chance to think about the legacy of American aviation, with what was described as a touch of Disney magic. For a resort visit that began with a castle-side honor, it was a closing image that felt especially fitting.
