World Warfare II veteran Charles Cram, who witnessed the enduring flag elevating at Iwo Jima, is acknowledged at Disneyland’s Flag Retreat as household seems on. (Disney Experiences)
A 100-year-old World Warfare II veteran who witnessed the Iwo Jima flag-raising mentioned he thought the battle was “going to be over” as cheers erupted throughout the battlefield, a second honored a long time later at Disneyland in an emotional ceremony.
Charles Cram, a Navy medic connected to the fifth Marine Division, was acknowledged Tuesday throughout Disneyland’s day by day Flag Retreat ceremony on Foremost Road, U.S.A., the place friends gathered and applauded as he was introduced with a flag flown over the park.
“I didn’t know what I used to be witnessing at that second,” Cram informed FOX Enterprise. “However I used to be in the course of historical past.”
Cram mentioned he may see the American flag rising “500 to 700 toes up” over Mount Suribachi, a second that might grow to be probably the most recognizable pictures in American historical past.
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World Warfare II veteran Charles Cram, 100, poses in entrance of Sleeping Magnificence Fort at Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif., throughout a go to honoring his service. (Courtesy of Disney Experiences / Unknown)
The ceremony unfolded earlier than a crowd of park guests, with Cram’s household — together with kinfolk who traveled from throughout the nation — standing close by as he was honored for his service.
“After we informed Daddy he was coming to Disneyland, he thought he was simply happening rides,” a member of the family mentioned. “He had no concept any of this was actually occurring.”
Cram, who turned 100 March 15, was additionally handled as a particular visitor on the park, attending a VIP viewing of a parade and assembly Donald Duck, a personality that helped enhance morale amongst U.S. troops throughout World Warfare II.
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World Warfare II veteran Charles Cram, 100, receives a folded American flag throughout Disneyland’s Flag Retreat ceremony in Anaheim, Calif., as household and park friends watch. (Courtesy of Disney Experiences / Unknown)
Through the ceremony, he obtained a framed American flag.
“It is a flag that was flown over Disneyland Park,” a presenter mentioned in the course of the tribute. “Thanks for all the things that you just’ve finished.”
The ceremony is a part of a long-standing custom at Disneyland by which day by day flag ceremonies have been held for the reason that park opened in 1955 to honor U.S. service members and veterans.
A Los Angeles native, Cram served as a pharmacist’s mate second class within the U.S. Navy and was connected to the fifth Marine Division throughout World Warfare II. He was amongst those that fought at Iwo Jima, probably the most pivotal battles of the Pacific marketing campaign.
World Warfare II veteran Charles Cram, 100, is acknowledged throughout Disneyland’s Flag Retreat ceremony on Foremost Road, U.S.A., in Anaheim, Calif., as attendees applaud. (Courtesy of Disney Experiences / Unknown)
Reflecting on that day, Cram mentioned the expertise formed how he views life.
“It made me notice how valuable and fragile life is,” he informed FOX Enterprise. “And blissful to nonetheless be alive.”
He mentioned being honored at 100 years outdated is a reminder of how lucky he has been.
“It jogs my memory how fortunate I’m to be alive,” Cram mentioned.
When requested what message he would share with youthful Individuals, Cram pointed to service as an enduring supply of satisfaction.
“It’s a privilege to have the ability to serve your nation,” he mentioned. “It’s an honor you’ll always remember.”
