Disney Cruise Line Surprises Marine Corps Veteran with Disney Treasure Sailing
Disney Cruise Line honored U.S. Marine Corps Veteran David Negreros during National Veterans and Military Families Appreciation Month, surprising him and his family at Disneyland park with a sailing aboard the new Disney Treasure. Negreros, nominated by Goodwill of Orange County's Tierney Center for Veteran Services, served at Camp Pendleton and in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. The family's voyage will include a visit to the Haunted Mansion Parlor, one of the ship's signature venues inspired by the classic attraction.
Disney Cruise Line honored a Southern California veteran during National Veterans and Military Families Appreciation Month, delivering a life-changing surprise to U.S. Marine Corps Veteran David Negreros and his family during a visit to Disneyland park. The family learned they would be among the inaugural guests to sail aboard the new Disney Treasure, set to debut in December 2024. The surprise was coordinated in partnership with Goodwill of Orange County's Tierney Center for Veteran Services.
Key Details
- Honoree: David Negreros, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran (Camp Pendleton, Operation Enduring Freedom)
- Nominating Organization: Goodwill of Orange County's Tierney Center for Veteran Services
- Prize: Sailing aboard the Disney Treasure during its inaugural season
- Ship Debut: December 2024
- Surprise Location: Haunted Mansion attraction at Disneyland park
- Source: https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/ships/treasure/
A Day at Disneyland Becomes a Once-in-a-Lifetime Moment
While enjoying Haunted Mansion Holiday — the seasonal overlay inspired by Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas — David Negreros and his family received the news that they would be sailing aboard Disney Cruise Line's newest ship. The surprise came courtesy of the Tierney Center, which nominated Negreros in recognition of his dedication and selflessness during his time in the Marine Corps.
Negreros served at Camp Pendleton and deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Since leaving the military, he has dedicated his civilian career to supporting other veterans through vocational programs and resource centers that ease the transition back to civilian life.
What Awaits the Negreros Family Aboard the Disney Treasure
The Disney Treasure is designed to bring the stories of Disney Parks to life at sea for the first time. Among its marquee venues is the all-new Haunted Mansion Parlor, a fitting connection for a family whose surprise was delivered inside Disneyland's own Haunted Mansion. The Parlor pays nostalgic tribute to Haunted Mansion attractions across the globe while introducing guests to the next chapter of the saga.
The ship's theme centers on adventure and the daring tales of classic Disney films and Disney Parks attractions, with inaugural sailings beginning in December 2024.
A Tradition of Honoring Service
During his visit, Negreros also participated in a commemorative flag retreat on Main Street, U.S.A., one of Disneyland's enduring traditions honoring U.S. veterans for their bravery and courage. Disney's connection to military service extends to the company's origins — founders Walt Disney and Roy Disney both contributed to the country during World War I.
What This Means for Veterans and Disney Fans
This gesture underscores Disney Cruise Line's long-standing commitment to recognizing military service members and their families. The Disney Treasure launches a new chapter for the fleet, and the Negreros family's inaugural voyage is a meaningful way to mark that milestone. Families interested in sailing the Disney Treasure can browse itineraries at DisneyCruise.com.