How A Retired U.S. Navy Captain Helped Bring Disney’s New Military-Inspired Merchandise Line to Life
If you have visited Walt Disney World lately, you may have spotted the new military-inspired merchandise collection in many of the resort’s shops.
The special project was designed by the Disney Parks Merchandise team to honor and celebrate those who serve our country.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
One man who was instrumental in the creation of the new line was retired U.S., Navy Captain Cappy Surette, who is now a senior manager of communications for Disney Experiences.
Cappy’s Story
Cappy joined The Walt Disney Company in 2012 following the launch of the company’s Heroes Work Here hiring initiative. As a communications leader, the former Navy Captain has been a part of unveiling New Fantasyland at the Magic Kingdom, Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Pandora at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
However, before his time at Disney, Cappy spent 22 years in the United States Navy. He served seven years on the USS Leyte Hulf cruiser before transitioning into a public affairs role. He would eventually become the U.S. Navy liaison to Hollywood, working on several TV and film projects.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
“They were quite the events and took quite an amount of teamwork to pull them off. They made such a big impact and it felt great to be a part of it all, to make it all happen and be trusted by leadership,” Cappy shared.
How The Navy Shaped Cappy’s Role at Disney
Cappy’s time in the Navy would shape his personal life and how he leads in his role at Disney.
“The biggest thing I think I’ve taken from being in the Navy is that you’ve got to take care of your team,” Cappy said. “I try to practice ‘the three T’s’ in all parts of my life. They are to train your team well, trust your team, and always be sure to thank your team for the work that they do.”
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Part of Cappy’s job at Disney is to share the stories and celebrate Disney’s Veteran cast members.
“Disney has honored those who have served our country throughout the 100-year history of The Walt Disney Company. That began with our founders, Walt and Roy O. Disney, and their own contributions to our country during the First World War,” Cappy explained.
Creating the New Military-Inspired Merchandise Line
So, when the company began working on the new merchandise line for National Veterans and Military Families Month, Cappy was part of the team that brought the idea to life.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
“It’s just a natural extension of Disney’s enduring admiration for those who serve in the U.S. military and their families. It’s another way for us to say thank you and recognize the honor and courage of those in the Armed Forces,” Cappy shared.
The collection consists of six items- two T-shirts, a fleece sweatshirt, a bandana, a canteen, and a cap. All of the items use elements of military camouflage.
Making the line even more special, however, is that Disney included hidden Mickeys blended throughout the unique camouflage. According to the company, the Disney camouflage pattern reflects Disney’s respect and admiration for U.S. military service members, veterans, and their families.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
If you want to see the new military-inspired collection for yourself, you can visit one of the seven locations. These locations include: The Emporium at Magic Kingdom, Creations at EPCOT, Mickey’s of Hollywood at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, World of Disney at Disney Springs in Florida, The Emporium at Disneyland Park, Elias & Co. at Disney California Adventure Park and World of Disney at Downtown Disney in California.
