More than 200 Active Duty and Veteran Military Participate in Walt Disney World’s Warrior Games

Athletes from all over the United States returned to Walt Disney World Resort to compete in the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games this past month.

Over 200 heroes representing each branch of the US military engaged in various adaptive sporting events at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Australian military wounded warriors also represented their country during the games.

Wounded, ill, and injured service men and women displayed physical and mental toughness while competing in events such as wheelchair basketball, cycling, indoor rowing, and seated volleyball. This is only the second time the event has been hosted at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Disney previously hosted the event for the first time in 2022.

On Friday, June 21, a “heroes welcome” for athletes and their families took place at Magic Kingdom Park, including red, white, and blue fireworks over Cinderella Castle. ABC News correspondent Stephanie Ramos, a major in the U.S. Army Reserve, hosted the official kick-off event on Saturday, June 22, at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. The celebration included a parade of athletes, a musical performance from American Sirens, and a spoken word piece written and performed by Disney cast members.

The Walt Disney Company has a long history of commitment to U.S. military veterans and their families. Both Walt and his brother Roy served in the military during World War I. The Walt Disney Company continues to show its commitment to servicemen and women by offering special military discounts on tickets, hotel stays, daily flag retreat ceremonies, and more.

Disney's “Heroes Work Here” initiative also helps hundreds of companies in the U.S. create and maintain veteran-hiring programs.

👉 LEARN MORE about the attraction honoring veterans at Epcot

Plan Your Walt Disney World Visit Today

We’re here to help you take the dress out of planning your Walt Disney World vacation. Subscribe to our FREE deals newsletter for helpful information, exclusive Disney deals, and the lowest prices on Disney tickets anywhere.