Military Appreciation Month at EPCOT: Portraits of Courage
The beginning of May marks the start of National Military Appreciation Month, and soon EPCOT will be unveiling an exciting addition to The American Adventure Pavilion. On June 9, the grand opening of "Portraits of Courage: A Commander in Chief's Tribute to America's Warriors," a special exhibit from the George W. Bush Institute, will take place. This new exhibit is part of Disney’s ongoing support for the U.S. Armed Forces and veterans.
The exhibit is a result of President Bush’s personal commitment and the ongoing work of the Bush Institute’s Veterans and Military Families program. It features over 60 vibrant oil paintings by President Bush of service members and veterans who have served in the military with honor since 9/11 and whom the President has personally come to know since leaving office.
Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, expressed gratitude to the Bush Institute for allowing the special collection to be featured and shared with Disney's guests, stating that celebrating those who contribute to the country has been an integral part of The Walt Disney Company throughout its 100-year history.
Each painting is accompanied by the inspiring story of the veteran depicted, allowing guests to learn more about these military heroes’ journeys. These stories include accounts of valiant service on the battlefield, resilience in recovering from injury, and continued leadership and contributions in their post-military careers. Furthermore, each story was personally written by President Bush himself.
Ken Hersh, President and CEO of the George W. Bush Presidential Center, expressed excitement that "Portraits of Courage" will be on display for EPCOT visitors to experience. He also mentioned his hope that those who have the opportunity to see this special exhibit will remember the leadership, service, and sacrifice behind each of the heroes painted and the unique challenges faced by servicemembers and their families during the transition out of the military.
In addition to this exhibit, there will be additional events to celebrate National Military Appreciation Month, leading up to the Department of Defense Warrior Games returning to Disney World from June 21 to 30.
Recent Posts
Disney Cruise Line Charts a Big Fall 2027 and Spring 2028 Adventure
Disney Cruise Line is plotting a particularly busy course for Fall 2027 and Spring 2028, and the itinerary map is getting deliciously crowded. The Disney Wish is heading to New York City, the Disney Magic is crossing the Panama Canal, and ships will sail from ports spanning San Juan to Singapore. Early booking opens August…
Downtown Disney District: The Disneyland Resort Stop Worth Exploring
Downtown Disney District has always been the Disneyland Resort’s handy little in-between: close to the parks, close to the hotels and very good at convincing a casual stroll to become dinner, dessert and a new souvenir bag. This outdoor promenade is continuing its evolution, particularly on the west end, where a new entrance, fresh shops…
Magic Kingdom’s Villains Land Reveals Its Wickedly Detailed Story
The fairest land of them all is taking a delightfully darker turn. Disney has revealed fresh details about Villains Land, the upcoming Magic Kingdom expansion where poisoned wishes, towering villain lairs and a little delicious trouble await beyond the safe side of the forest. Inspired by classic Walt Disney Animation Studios characters, Villains Land will…
Magic Kingdom Puts Two Piston Peak Rides in Gear
Start those engines: Piston Peak National Park is bringing two Cars-inspired attractions to Magic Kingdom, and this particular national park has a geyser field, a snowcapped summit and one very large school bus with demolition-derby energy. New details revealed at D23 put the pedal down on the expanding land’s ride lineup. Guests can expect an…
Disney Believe Takes Shape—and Three New Disney Cruise Ships Are on the Horizon
Disney Cruise Line is putting a little more wind in its sails. The Disney Believe, due to set sail in late 2027, has revealed its first big design details-right down to the characters hitching a crayon-powered ride on the stern. That is not the only fleet news making waves. Disney Cruise Line also shared an…
Let's Start the Magic!
Crazy Imagination Travel Advisors are experts at the art of vacationing Disney and beyond. No two families are alike and no two vacations are alike. Each vacation is carefully planned and customized to our guest. From the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida to world-wide adventures in Australia, our Travel Advisors are ready to help guests plan their dream vacation. Go ahead. Put our service to the test!
