Disney Cruise Line Surprises a Deserving Veteran at Disneyland Park 

David and his family jump in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Park

In honor of National Veterans and Military Families Appreciation Month, Disney Cruise Line recently recognized a brave hero and U.S. Marine Corps Veteran with the surprise of a lifetime while he enjoyed a day at the Disneyland Resort with his family: an upcoming vacation sailing on the new Disney Treasure!  

Southern California veteran David Negreros was nominated to receive a trip to the Disneyland Resort by Goodwill of Orange County’s Tierney Center for Veteran Services, in recognition of his dedication and selflessness while serving in the Marine Corps at Camp Pendleton and in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. 

David and his family are surprised by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse with a sailing on the Disney Treasure

While visiting Disneyland park, David and his family enjoyed a ride on Haunted Mansion (which is currently decked out as the Haunted Mansion Holiday inspired by “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas”!) where they were then surprised with the news they would soon be sailing onboard the highly anticipated Disney Treasure, Disney Cruise Line’s new ship setting sail this December! 

Disney Cruise Line Surprises Veteran David and his family with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse with a sailing on the Disney Treasure

David and his family are sure to feel right at home onboard the ship, as the Disney Treasure brings stories from Disney Parks to life at sea for the first time. They will be among the first to experience venues inspired by the beloved attractions they visited at Disneyland Resort, such as the all-new Haunted Mansion Parlor!  

Concept art of the Haunted Mansion Parlor onboard the Disney Treasure

The Haunted Mansion Parlor will have nostalgic tributes to Haunted Mansion attractions around the world and introduce guests to the next chapter of the Haunted Mansion saga. The Disney Treasure, where the spirit of adventure meets the daring tales of classic Disney films and Disney Parks attractions, begins inaugural sailings in December 2024. 

Rendering of the exterior of the Disney Treasure

David also participated in a commemorative flag retreat on Main Street, U.S.A., during his visit to the park. This ceremony is a valued tradition in our parks, honoring U.S. veterans for their bravery and courage. Disney has a strong legacy of supporting military service members and their families, dating all the way back to our founders Walt and Roy Disney’s own contributions to country during World War I. 

David Negreros with his family at Disneyland Park

Following his military service, he now devotes his work to helping other veterans as they transition out of the military through various veteran vocational programs and resource centers. We are so proud to celebrate David and his family and thank him for his service. We can’t wait for them to set sail soon!