With the start of National Military Appreciation Month, Disney’s EPCOT said Wednesday that it will open a new display of military veteran portraits painted by former President George W. Bush.
The George W. Bush Institute will lend the exhibit, “Portraits of Courage: A Commander in Chief’s Tribute to America’s Warriors.” The exhibit will be accessible to the public on June 9 at the American Adventure Pavilion at Walt Disney World in Orlando.
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“Celebrating those who give so much to our country has been part of The Walt Disney Company’s fabric throughout its 100-year history,” said Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences. “We’re grateful to the Bush Institute for allowing us to feature this special collection and share it with our guests.”
The 60 oil paintings depict US service members and veterans who served following 9/11. Bush, who has come to know the veterans intimately, accompanies each artwork with a biography. The accounts describe the veterans’ battlefield experience, recuperation from injuries, and post-military contributions.
After leaving office in 2009, the nation’s 43rd president began painting as a pastime. Eight years later, he published a book with photographs of veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan. The proceeds from the book have helped the George W. Bush Presidential Center’s Military Service Initiative, which assists veterans in overcoming the physical and emotional scars of war when they return to civilian life.
As the paintings depict post-9/11 soldiers, Disney announced Wednesday that the exhibit will contain information on how to support those who have served and their families. One resource, Check-In, connects veterans to free, high-quality mental and brain health care.
In 1999, the United States military established National Military Appreciation Month, which runs from May 1 to May 31.
“We are thrilled that 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.”
