Disney Experiences honored fallen U.S. military heroes this Memorial Day with Missing Hero tables. They also invited sailors and marines to visit Disneyland Resort.
Memorial Day Missing Hero Tables
Disney set up Missing Hero tables at backstage locations of Walt Disney World Resort and on stage at Tiana’s Palace and Blue Bayou Restaurant in Disneyland.
Missing Hero tables are a military tradition beyond Disney. They include these symbolic elements;
- A slice of lemon on the bread plate reminds us of the bitter fate of those who will never return.
- A pinch of salt symbolizes the tears endured by those who have sacrificed all.
- An inverted glass is symbolic of those who cannot toast with us at this time.
- The chair is empty, representing the seat that remains unclaimed at the table.
“Today and every day, it is important to remember and honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Jenn O’Rourke, Disney Institute business transformation manager, co-chair of the SALUTE employee resource group in Florida, and Major in the U.S. Air Force Reserve.
Growing up as the daughter of a 20+ year retired Navy veteran and serving in the Air Force myself, I think we all know families who have lost someone to military-connected service. We honor those families’ dedication to our nation as well. That support means the world to me as a service member, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.
Jenn O’Rourke
Sailors and Marines Visit Disneyland
Disneyland Resort surprised 100 sailors and marines in port for Los Angeles Fleet Week with a trip to Disneyland Resort. They marched down Main Street, U.S.A. and participated in a special Flag Retreat ceremony before enjoying the park on their own.
Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May every year. Did you celebrate the day at the Disney Parks? Sound off in the comments and on social media.
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