With this being Memorial Day weekend, it is a good time to point out a little known gem you may have missed at the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. If you noticed the flag pole standing prominently in Town Square on Main Street USA, you may not have given it a second thought. There is a flag that has been hoisted prior to the park opening. Since the flag needs to be removed before dark, the Magic Kingdom presents a Flag Retreat ceremony every day at 5:00 pm.

If you have never witnessed this, I would suggest you add it to your plans the next time you visit Magic Kingdom. Each day the Cast Members choose a “Veteran of the Day”. The Main Street Philharmonic Marching Band assembles on the train platform and the walkway below. When the ceremony begins the band marches thru the path made by cast members. Walt Disney World security and the Veteran of the Day follow behind. The band reassembles around the flag pole.

At this time the Pledge of Allegiance is recited with the help of the Dapper Dans. The flag is lowered while the band plays The Star Spangled Banner. After the flag is folded it is presented to the Veteran of the Day.

I personally find this ceremony to be very moving. I have often walked away teary eyed after watching the Flag Retreat ceremony. This weekend especially, I would like to take the opportunity to thank those who have served to protect the freedom of our country, and to honor those who gave their lives in its defense. We can never thank you enough for your service and sacrifice!

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