Disney Honors WWII Veteran Herb Maneloveg’s 101st Birthday at Magic Kingdom Flag Retreat

A deeply moving moment at Magic Kingdom: On January 25, Walt Disney World Resort celebrated World War II veteran Herb Maneloveg’s 101st birthday with a special honor – he served as the “U.S. Armed Forces Representative of the Day” during the park’s daily Flag Retreat ceremony. The former Private in the U.S. Army’s 106th Infantry Division, wounded during the Battle of the Bulge and awarded the Purple Heart, experienced a day filled with magic and gratitude.

The celebration began with a classic journey down Main Street, U.S.A. – that iconic view that never fails to inspire – and the sight of Cinderella Castle alongside his family. They then enjoyed a prime viewing spot for the legendary Festival of Fantasy Parade, waving to beloved Disney characters including Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. “It’s a wish that is better than any wish I’ve ever had,” Herb said emotionally afterward. “To me, the important thing is family and they are here. It’s all I could ask for.”

Daughter Susan shared: “My father is a great guy, he was a serviceman, but he was also a great father, husband, and grandfather. Thanks to Disney and how they honored him. The parade was great, he got attention from everybody, which was so sweet.”

The daily Flag Retreat ceremony at Magic Kingdom, honoring U.S. veterans and service members since the park’s opening in 1971 (and since 1955 at Disneyland), took on extra meaning with Herb at the center. Each evening, one guest is selected as the day’s representative – on this day, it was the 101-year-old hero. The ceremony continues the legacy of Walt and Roy O. Disney, both of whom served in World War I.

As America approaches its 250th anniversary, Disney reaffirms its commitment to sharing the remarkable stories of service members, veterans, and their families. Herb Maneloveg was saluted with respect and warmth – a day that was not just a ceremony, but living history.