Disneyland Resort recently welcomed retired U.S. Navy Capt. E. Royce Williams for a special day celebrating his military service and extraordinary role in American history. At 101 years old, Williams is the oldest living Medal of Honor recipient from the Korean War.
The visit included a rare honorary citizenship recognition at Sleeping Beauty Castle, a special flag ceremony on Main Street, U.S.A., and a ride on Soarin’ Across America at Disney California Adventure. The celebration highlighted Williams’ decades of service and his place in one of the most remarkable aerial combat stories in U.S. military history.
A Historic Dogfight During the Korean War
Williams’ military career included service during World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. He began his Navy aviation service in 1943 and went on to complete more than 220 combat missions.
One of his most notable missions took place on Nov. 18, 1952, during the Korean War. Flying from the USS Oriskany, Williams engaged seven Soviet MiG-15 fighter jets in an aerial battle that has been described as the longest dogfight in U.S. military history.
The encounter remained classified for more than 50 years, keeping the details of the engagement out of public view for decades. Williams’ actions during the mission later became a defining part of his military legacy.
Over the course of his career, Williams received several major military honors, including the Silver Star and Navy Cross. In February 2026, he received the Medal of Honor in recognition of his actions during the Korean War.
Reflecting on the demands of military service, Williams emphasized the importance of completing the mission, explaining that a service member’s primary responsibility in combat is accomplishing the objective rather than protecting themselves.
Disneyland Recognizes Williams’ Military Service
During his visit, Williams was joined by friends and fellow retired military aviation personnel. Disneyland Ambassador Michele Mary welcomed him at Sleeping Beauty Castle and named him an Honorary Citizen of Disneyland, a special recognition marking the occasion.
Williams also shared his appreciation for Walt Disney, whose creative work during World War II helped support military personnel. The connection added a personal dimension to the visit, bringing together Williams’ experiences in military aviation and Disney’s history of engaging with members of the armed forces.
The celebration continued in Town Square on Main Street, U.S.A., with a special Flag Retreat ceremony honoring Williams’ lifetime of service. The ceremony featured the Disneyland Band and the Dapper Dans, the park’s barbershop quartet, as guests gathered to recognize the decorated Navy veteran.
Paul Tanaka, a retired Navy captain and longtime friend of Williams, reflected on the significance of the recognition. With Williams receiving the Medal of Honor earlier in 2026, the Disneyland celebration offered another opportunity to recognize his contributions and create a lasting memory with friends and fellow service members.
A Flight Through American Aviation History
Williams’ visit also included a trip aboard Soarin’ Across America at Disney California Adventure. The attraction takes guests on a simulated flight across American landscapes and landmarks, offering a fitting experience for a veteran whose life was shaped by aviation.
The ride provided another opportunity to reflect on the history of American flight and the role aviation has played in the nation’s story.
Disney Continues Its Support for Military Families
Disney’s connection to military service dates back to the company’s early history, including Walt Disney’s attempted military service during World War I and Roy O. Disney’s service in the U.S. Navy during World War I.
Today, the company continues to recognize military personnel and their families through initiatives that include special flag ceremonies and promotional theme park ticket offers for eligible service members and retirees.
For 2026, Disneyland Resort has offered specially priced promotional tickets for eligible U.S. military members and their families. Availability, eligibility requirements and purchase conditions apply, and interested guests should check the official Disneyland website or authorized military ticket outlets for current details.
Williams’ visit served as a personal tribute to a veteran whose decades of service included a largely unknown chapter of military aviation history. Through the ceremony, honorary recognition and park experiences, Disneyland celebrated his legacy and the sacrifices made by members of the U.S. armed forces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Capt. E. Royce Williams?
E. Royce Williams is a retired U.S. Navy captain and Medal of Honor recipient who served during World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. At 101, he is recognized as the oldest living Medal of Honor recipient from the Korean War.
Why is Royce Williams famous?
Williams is known for a historic aerial engagement on Nov. 18, 1952, when he fought seven Soviet MiG-15 fighter jets during the Korean War. The encounter became known as the longest dogfight in U.S. military history, and details remained classified for more than 50 years.
How did Disneyland honor Royce Williams?
Disneyland named Williams an Honorary Citizen of Disneyland during a ceremony at Sleeping Beauty Castle. The resort also held a special Flag Retreat ceremony on Main Street, U.S.A., featuring the Disneyland Band and the Dapper Dans. Williams also experienced Soarin’ Across America at Disney California Adventure.
Does Disneyland offer military discounts in 2026?
Disneyland Resort has offered specially priced promotional theme park tickets for eligible U.S. military members and their families in 2026. Eligibility rules, ticket availability, and purchase requirements apply. Check Disneyland’s official website or authorized military ticket outlets for the latest information.
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