CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (KABC) — Nearly 500 military children and families at Camp Pendleton were surprised and delighted by Disney just ahead of America’s 250th anniversary.<\/p>\n
Disney teamed up with Blue Star Families Tuesday to host a memorable afternoon on base, including a special movie screening of “Toy Story 5.”<\/p>\n
Mickey Mouse, Woody and Buzz Lightyear popped up to greet attendees as part of the event, focused on recognizing military families for their service to our country.<\/p>\n
As part of the event, Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro also surprised attendees with free Disneyland tickets to help these families create more memories together.<\/p>\n
Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro shared about Disney’s 15-year commitment to military families at Camp Pendleton, in partnership with Blue Star Families.<\/p>\n
“For decades, Disney has honored U.S. military service members, veterans, and their families,” D’Amaro said. “We’re proud to continue that legacy with Blue Star Families by creating moments that bring military families together, help them make lasting memories, and show the appreciation they so deeply deserve.”<\/p>\n
As part of its “Disney Celebrates America” initiative, the company committed $2.5 million to Blue Star Families to promote well-being and create opportunities for military families to thrive.<\/p>\n
Blue Star Families CEO and co-founder Kathy Roth-Douquet said the organization’s 15-year partnership with Disney has helped the loved ones of service members feel connected, supported and empowered.<\/p>\n
“Military families serve our nation every day, often behind the scenes and without recognition,” Roth-Douquet said.<\/p>\n
“We are grateful to Disney for its continued commitment to creating meaningful experiences that bring military families together. Events like this provide more than just entertainment-they foster connection, strengthen community, and remind military families that their service and sacrifices are seen and valued.”<\/p>\n
Tuesday’s event followed a series of major Disney and Blue Star Families activations throughout 2026, including the 25th and largest Blue Star Books event ever at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n
Other activations included a reading with Second Lady Usha Vance at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa. Fla., an appearance on American Idol, a private screening of “The Mandalorian & Grogu” at Lucasfilm in San Francisco, volunteer service projects at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort with Disney VoluntEARS, and other military family events across the country.<\/p>\n
Disney is the parent company of ABC7 Los Angeles.<\/p>\n
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