100-Year-Old Iwo Jima Veteran Honored at Disneyland Decades Later

Charles Cram witnessed the iconic flag raising and was recognized at the park's daily Flag Retreat ceremony.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 11:34pm

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Charles Cram, a 100-year-old World War II Navy medic who witnessed the famous Iwo Jima flag raising, was honored decades later during Disneyland's daily Flag Retreat ceremony on Main Street, U.S.A. Cram, who turned 100 in March, was presented with a flag flown over the park as a crowd of visitors and his own family members looked on. The emotional ceremony was part of Disneyland's long-standing tradition of honoring U.S. service members and veterans.

Why it matters

The Iwo Jima flag raising is one of the most iconic images of World War II, and Cram's firsthand account of witnessing that historic moment provides a rare personal connection to that pivotal battle. Disneyland's Flag Retreat ceremony is a daily tradition that pays tribute to the service and sacrifice of American veterans, making Cram's recognition at the park especially meaningful.

The details

Cram, who served as a Pharmacist's Mate Second Class in the U.S. Navy and was attached to the 5th Marine Division, was among those who fought at Iwo Jima. He said he could see the American flag rising "500 to 700 feet up" over Mount Suribachi, a moment that would become one of the most recognizable images in American history. During the Disneyland ceremony, Cram was presented with a framed American flag that had been flown over the park, and he was also treated as a special guest, attending a VIP parade viewing and meeting the character Donald Duck.

  • Cram turned 100 years old on March 15, 2026.
  • The Disneyland Flag Retreat ceremony honoring Cram took place on April 1, 2026.

The players

Charles Cram

A 100-year-old World War II Navy medic who witnessed the iconic Iwo Jima flag raising and was honored decades later at Disneyland's Flag Retreat ceremony.

Disneyland

The iconic theme park in Anaheim, California, that has held daily Flag Retreat ceremonies to honor U.S. service members and veterans since the park opened in 1955.

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What they’re saying

“I didn't know what I was witnessing at that moment. But I was in the middle of history.”

— Charles Cram, World War II Veteran

“When we told Daddy he was coming to Disneyland, he thought he was just going on rides. He had no idea any of this was really happening.”

— Cram's Family Member

“This is a flag that was flown over Disneyland Park. Thank you for everything that you've done.”

— Disneyland Presenter

What’s next

Cram's family plans to continue celebrating his 100th birthday with additional events and gatherings in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

Cram's recognition at Disneyland serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by World War II veterans and the enduring importance of honoring their service, even decades later. The ceremony highlights how iconic moments from history can take on new meaning when experienced through the eyes of those who lived them.