World War II veteran Charles Cram, who witnessed the flag raising at Iwo Jima, is seen at Disneyland’s Flag Retreat as family watches. (Disney Experiences)
A 100-year-old World War II veteran who witnessed the flag-raising on Iwo Jima said he thought the war was “going to end” as cheers erupted on the battlefield, a moment that was honored decades later at Disneyland in an emotional ceremony.
Charles Cram, a Navy medic attached to the 5th Marine Division, was honored Tuesday during Disneyland’s daily Flag Retreat on Main Street, USA, where guests gathered and applauded as he was presented with a flag flown over the park.
“I didn’t know what I was witnessing at the time,” Cram told FOX Business. “But I was in the middle of history.”
Cram said he saw the American flag rise “500 to 700 feet up” over Mount Suribachi, a moment that will become one of the most iconic images in American history.
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World War II veteran Charles Cram, 100, stands in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif., during a visit to honor his service. (Courtesy of Disney Experiences / Anonymous)
The ceremony took place in front of a crowd of park visitors, with Cram’s family – including relatives from around the country – standing by as he was honored for his work.
“When we told Daddy he was coming to Disneyland, he thought he was just going to ride,” said a family member. “He didn’t know what was really going on.”
Cram, who turned 100 on March 15, was also treated as a special guest at the park, attending a VIP viewing event and meeting Donald Duck, the character who helped boost morale among US soldiers 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 in Anaheim, Calif., as family and park visitors look on. (Courtesy of Disney Experiences / Anonymous)
During the ceremony, he received a framed American flag.
“This is the flag that was flown over Disneyland Park,” the host said during the tribute. “Thank you for everything you’ve done.”
The event is part of a long-standing tradition at Disneyland where daily ceremonies have been held since the park opened in 1955 to honor US service members and veterans.
A native of Los Angeles, Cram served as a chemist second class in the US 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 important battles of the Pacific campaign.
World War II veteran Charles Cram, 100, is recognized during Disneyland’s Flag Retreat on Main Street, USA, in Anaheim, Calif., as attendees applaud. (Courtesy of Disney Experiences / Anonymous)
Reflecting on that day, Cram said his experience shaped his outlook on life.
“It made me realize how precious and fragile life is,” he told FOX Business. “And I’m glad you’re still alive.”
He said being honored at the age of 100 is a reminder of the good fortune he has had.
“It reminds me how lucky I am to be alive,” Cram said.
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When asked what message he would share with young Americans, Cram pointed to service as an eternal source of pride.
“It is an honor to be able to serve your country,” he said. “It’s an honor you’ll never forget.”
