Disney and the NFL Create Happiness for Families of Fallen Military Heroes
Hi everyone!
Yesterday, Disney and the NFL created happiness for families of fallen military heroes with a special event in EPCOT. Families made new family memories and shared memories of their lost loved ones.
The families traveled to Walt Disney World from across the country (along with the family of a fallen British service member) as part of an NFL Pro Bowl experienced organized by the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). Disney says that TAPS “is focused on providing compassionate care and comprehensive resources to the loved ones of fallen military heroes”.
This is the third year that Walt Disney World is hosting the group, alongside the NFL.
At the event, family members enjoyed a morning prior to EPCOT opening meeting Star-Lord and enjoying Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind before they spent the day exploring the Disney parks.
Disney has more than 100-year tradition of saluting service members, veterans and military families. Disney says that this legacy started with their founders, Walt and Roy O. Disney, who served their country during World War I.
Walt Disney World Ambassadors Serena Arvizu and Shannon Smith-Conrad were also on hand at the event. Shannon said about this (as quoted from the Disney Parks Blog), “Serena and I both come from military families. We understand the kind of impact these moments have for families as they create new, happy memories together. It’s so important for us to recognize and thank the men and women serving our country, as well as their families, for the sacrifices they make every day.”
Diana Roday Hosford, TAPS vice president, Sports & Entertainment added, “Today was magical, fun, and filled with surprises for the families of the fallen. These incredible Walt Disney World welcomes have become a tradition for TAPS and being so personal and meaningful, the Disney SALUTE team makes us feel like family. We are so grateful we are able to come to Orlando with the NFL for the Pro Bowl and to bring some of the magic of Disney into this very special weekend.”
As the daughter of blinded veteran who dedicated his life to helping other veterans, I appreciate so much the way Disney honors those who have served in uniform.