Retired U.S. Army Colonel William “Bill” A. Connelly, at the remarkable age of 100 years, was recently recognized in a heartwarming flag retreat ceremony held at the iconic Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom in Orlando, Florida. The event took place on a Friday evening and gathered Connelly’s family and friends, making it a truly special occasion. As part of the ceremony, the American flag, which had originally been raised to half-staff in memory of the late former President Jimmy Carter, was ceremoniously lowered and folded before being presented to Connelly, who saluted with pride and dignity.
Following this moving moment, Connelly received a warm welcome from the Disney cast members, who lined up to extend their appreciation by shaking his hand. This gesture of gratitude was complemented by the enthusiastic participation of park visitors who also queued up to express their thanks for his service—a remarkable instance that demonstrates the deep respect and admiration for veterans. Connelly, reflecting on the experience, indicated he felt “great” after the ceremony, adding a personal touch to his moment of recognition. A self-proclaimed Disney fan, he has created cherished memories at the parks and has even enjoyed a Disney cruise. Noteworthy is the fact that his son-in-law is a Disney cast member, further intertwining his family’s fond connections to the beloved theme park.
When asked about his secret to a fulfilling and long life, Connelly shared a poignant observation: “Having happy people around you.” This simple yet profound statement underscores the importance of relationships and community in shaping a long and meaningful existence. Born in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, he was drafted into the U.S. Army at the young age of 18, embarking on a significant military journey that would see him serve with the 115th Regiment of the 29th Infantry Division during World War II.
Connelly bravely participated in the historic D-Day invasion at Omaha Beach in Normandy, where courage and resilience were paramount. His military service allowed him to complete his high school education and attend college, where he was involved in the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps. After earning a Bachelor of Arts degree, he re-enlisted as an officer, ultimately dedicating 27 years to a distinguished career within the U.S. Army. Throughout the war, he played a vital role in both the European and Pacific theaters, culminating in recognition through the awarding of the Bronze Star for Meritorious Service in a Combat Zone.
A significant portion of his military career was spent with the Counterintelligence Corps, where his cunning and resolve were put to good use. On a personal level, Connelly is also an exemplary family man; he is the proud father of three daughters, a grandfather to six grandchildren, and a great-grandfather to another six. Notably, he recently celebrated his centennial milestone, turning 100 on a recent Saturday. His journey has not been without its hardships; his wife, Jean, to whom he was married for 63 years, passed away in 2016, leaving a lasting impact on his life.
During a candid conversation with Fox News Digital, Connelly exhibited a delightful sense of humor while showcasing his humility, describing his military service as “nothing special.” This modest appraisal embodies the spirit of many veterans who often downplay their extraordinary contributions.
Disney World’s tradition of the daily flag retreat ceremony, which dates back to the park’s opening on October 1, 1971, includes the recitation of the pledge of allegiance, the singing of the national anthem, and a rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” As noted on Disney World’s website, the ceremony serves as a heartfelt tribute—a time to express gratitude to veterans for their unwavering service, sacrifice, and dedication to safeguarding the nation’s values. In this regard, the ceremony was not only an honor for Colonel Connelly but also a touchpoint for broader appreciation towards veterans and their legacy.
