Walt Disney World will host dozens of portraits of service members and veterans from the nation’s Painter-in-Chief. Earlier, the company announced its plans to host “Portraits of Courage: A Commander’s Tribute to America’s Warriors,” a special exhibition from the George W. Bush Institute, at The American Adventure pavilion in EPCOT, located at Walt Disney World Resort. The exhibition will commence with a grand opening on June 9 and will run for a 12-month period.
This exhibition is a result of President George W. Bush’s personal dedication and the ongoing efforts of the Bush Institute’s Veterans and Military Families program. It comprises over 60 full-color portraits painted by President Bush, featuring service members and veterans who have demonstrated honorable service to the nation since 9/11. These individuals are those whom the President has personally become acquainted with following his tenure in office.
“Celebrating those who give so much to our country has been part of the fabric of The Walt Disney Company throughout our 100-year history,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Experiences. “We’re grateful to the Bush Institute for allowing us to feature this special collection and share it with our guests.”
Each painting is accompanied by an inspiring story of the veteran depicted, written by the President. As guests walk through the exhibit, they will encounter the faces and the hearts of those who answered the nation’s call. They will learn about their bravery on the battlefield, their journey to recovery, and the continued leadership and contributions they make as civilians.
“We are thrilled Portraits of Courage will be on display for EPCOT visitors to experience this year,” said Ken Hersh, President and CEO of the George W. Bush Presidential Center. “My hope is that those who have the opportunity to see this special exhibit will also remember the leadership, service and sacrifice behind each of the heroes painted and the unique challenges our service members and their families face when transitioning out of the military.”
The exhibit showcases valuable resources dedicated to supporting veterans and their families, including a tool that facilitates access to free, high-quality mental and brain health care. To discover more about Check-In, please visit veterancheckin.org.
For over a century, The Walt Disney Company has paid tribute to U.S. military service, a tradition dating back to its founders, Walt and Roy O. Disney, who bravely served during the First World War. Since 2012, Disney has generously contributed over twenty million dollars in funding and media backing to non-profit organizations devoted to bringing happiness to veterans and military families.
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