At 101 years young, Staff Sergeant Jake Larson, lovingly known as “Papa Jake,” walked through the gates of Disneyland for the first time, and in that moment, history met hope! This WWII veteran got the “Hero’s Treatment” on his first Disneyland visit. Experiencing Disney at any age is truly magical, but can you imagine? Just picture it—a century of memories behind you, stepping into a place where wonder and imagination come alive.

“You don’t have to be a child to enjoy Disneyland. You could be any age, even my age,” he said. This World War II veteran who courageously stormed the beaches of Normandy, Papa Jake, had spent a lifetime exemplifying strength and sacrifice. Yet, even after facing the darkest chapters of history, he found himself surrounded by the light, laughter, and love of his family during this magical visit. This magical moment included meeting Mickey Mouse, experiencing the ride ‘It’s A Small World,’ and was given celebrity treatment for the moments he served his country. 

The moment I loved the most as I watched Papa Jake enjoy Disneyland was how he joked that Mickey Mouse was “stealing the show” from him as he shook hands with the Disney character. He added, “It is magic. It couldn’t have been any better.” 

But that wasn’t all the fun he had. The legendary Anaheim Ducks even made a jersey for the soldier with the lucky number two, and Papa Jake added to the orange shirt with the team's signatures. What I loved the most was how the crowd went wild when he was introduced at the game. The announcer added, “Staff Sergeant, Papa Jake Larson, you sir, are a true American hero.”

Papa Jake’s story calls to mind the words of Psalm 71:18 “Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come.” His life is a reminder of God’s faithfulness, from the battlefields of Europe to the magical streets of Disneyland.

As we honor veterans like Papa Jake, let’s embrace the wisdom of Papa Jake, that God’s wonders are never too late to experience. No matter your age or your past, there is always a new blessing to be discovered and a story of hope to share.

Psalm 71:18 “Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come.