World War II veteran Charles Cram, who witnessed the iconic flag raising at Iwo Jima, is recognized as family at Disneyland’s Flag Retreat. (disney experience)
A 100-year-old World War II veteran who witnessed the iconic Iwo Jima flag raising said he thought the war was “about to be over” as cheers echoed across the battlefield — the moment honored in an emotional ceremony at Disneyland decades later.
Charles Cram, a Navy vet attached to the 5th Marine Division, was honored Tuesday during Disneyland’s daily flag retreat ceremony on Main Street, USA, where guests gathered and applauded as he was presented with the flag hoisted over the park.
“I didn’t know what I was looking at at that moment,” Cram told Fox Business. “But I was in the middle of history.”
Cram said he could see the American flag waving “500 to 700 feet above” on Mount Suribachi – a moment that would become one of the most recognized images in American history.
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World War II veteran Charles Cram, 100, poses in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland in Anaheim, California during a visit honoring his service. (Courtesy of Disney Experience/Unknown)
The ceremony was held 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.
A family member said, “When we told Daddy he was coming to Disneyland, he thought he was just going on the rides.” “He had no idea this was really happening.”
Cram, who turned 100 on March 15, was also treated as a special guest at the park, taking part in a VIP view of a parade and meeting Donald Duck, a character who helped boost morale among American troops during World War II.
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World War II veteran Charles Cram, 100, receives a folded American flag during Disneyland’s Flag Retreat ceremony in Anaheim, California, as family and park guests look on. (Courtesy of Disney Experience/Unknown)
During the ceremony, he received a framed American flag that had flown over Disneyland.
A presenter during the tribute said, “This is a flag that was flown over Disneyland Park.” “Thank you for everything you’ve done.”
The ceremony is part of a long-standing tradition at Disneyland, where daily flag ceremonies have been held to honor U.S. service members and veterans since the park opened in 1955.
A native of Los Angeles, Cram served in the U.S. Navy as a Pharmacist’s Mate Second Class 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 important battles of the Pacific campaign.
World War II veteran Charles Cram, 100, is recognized by cheering attendees during Disneyland’s flag retreat ceremony on Main Street in Anaheim, California, USA. (Courtesy of Disney Experience/Unknown)
Recalling that day, Cram said that experience shaped his outlook on life.
“It made me realize how precious and fragile life is,” he told Fox Business. “And happy to still be alive.”
He said being honored at the age of 100 is a reminder of how fortunate he has been.
“It reminds me how lucky I am to be alive,” Cram said.
When asked what message he would share with young Americans, Cram described service as an enduring source of pride.
“It’s a privilege to be able to serve your country,” he said. “This is an honor you will never forget.”
