World War II veteran Charles Cram, who witnessed the raising of the iconic flag at Iwo Jima, is recognized during Disneyland’s Flag Retreat as his family looks on. (Disney experiences)
A 100-year-old World War II veteran who witnessed the Iwo Jima flag-raising said he thought the war “would be over” as cheers erupted across the battlefield, a moment honored with an emotional ceremony decades later at Disneyland.
Charles Cram, a Navy medic attached to the 5th Marine Division, was recognized Tuesday at Disneyland’s daily Flag Retreat ceremony on Main Street, USA, where guests gathered and applauded as he was presented with a flag flying over the park.
Cram 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.
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Charles Cram, 100-year-old World War II veteran, poses in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland in Anaheim, California, during a visit to honor his service. (Courtesy of Disney Experiences / Unknown)
The ceremony took place in front of a crowd of park visitors, with Cram’s family – including relatives traveling from across the country – standing nearby as he was honored for his service.
“When we told Dad he was coming to Disneyland, he thought he was just going for a ride,” said a family member. “He had no idea this was actually happening.”
Cram, who turned 100 on March 15, was also treated as a special guest at the park, where he attended a VIP viewing of a parade and met Donald Duck, a character who boosted morale among U.S. troops during World War II.
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Charles Cram, 100-year-old World War II veteran, receives a folded American flag during Disneyland’s Flag Retreat ceremony in Anaheim, California, as family and park guests look on. (Courtesy of Disney Experiences / Unknown)
During the ceremony he received a framed American flag.
“This is a flag that flew over Disneyland Park,” an announcer said during the tribute. “Thank you for everything you’ve done.”
The ceremony is part of a long tradition at Disneyland, where flag ceremonies honoring U.S. service members and veterans have been held daily since the park opened in 1955.
A native of Los Angeles, Cram served as a second class pharmacist’s mate in the U.S. Navy and was attached to the 5th Marine Division during World War II. He was among those who fought at Iwo Jima, one of the most crucial battles of the Pacific campaign.
Charles Cram, 100 years old, World War II veteran, is recognized during Disneyland’s Flag Retreat ceremony on Main Street, USA, in Anaheim, California, as attendees applaud. (Courtesy of Disney Experiences / Unknown)
Looking back on that day, Cram said the experience shaped how he views life.
He said being honored at age 100 is a reminder of how lucky he has been.
“It reminds me how lucky I am to be alive,” Cram said.
When asked what message he would share with younger Americans, Cram cited service as an enduring source of pride.
“It is a privilege to serve your country,” he said. “It’s an honor you’ll never forget.”
