News Summary
Anaheim resident Hank Ameen, 92, celebrates receiving the Walt Disney Legacy Award for being Disneyland’s longest-serving employee with over 62 years of dedication. Ameen’s journey began as a Jungle Cruise skipper shortly after Disneyland opened. He later balanced his career as a firefighter while maintaining his role at the park, demonstrating unwavering commitment to the Disney spirit. Ameen’s personal connection to Disneyland includes cherished memories and an inspiring legacy that highlights the magic of community service.
Anaheim
Anaheim resident Hank Ameen, at the age of 92, celebrated an impressive milestone as he received the Walt Disney Legacy Award after more than 62 years of dedicated service at Disneyland, making him the longest-serving employee in the park’s history. The award honors individuals who exemplify the core values of dreaming, creating, and inspiring, as envisioned by Walt Disney himself.
Ameen began his journey with Disneyland shortly after it opened, joining the team in 1958 as a Jungle Cruise skipper. His unique background as a bartender provided him with the skills needed for his role in one of the park’s most beloved attractions. After serving in the United States Air Force, he became an official cast member and quickly made his mark within the Disneyland community.
Career Highlights and Responsibilities
Throughout his extensive career, Ameen transitioned from entertaining guests as a Jungle Cruise skipper to wearing the hat of a Disneyland Resort firefighter. His firefighting career spanned 35 years with the Garden Grove Fire Department, during which he balanced his responsibilities at Disneyland, often working as a firefighter on his days off. His role extended to monitoring pyrotechnic safety during the park’s dazzling firework shows, ensuring a safe and magical experience for all visitors.
A Personal Connection to Disneyland
The connection Ameen has with Disneyland goes beyond his career. He and his wife visited Disneyland on their honeymoon in 1955, creating cherished memories that would last a lifetime. Over the years, he has accumulated numerous memorable experiences, including a rare opportunity to have lunch with Walt Disney himself, during which they spent time discussing Ameen’s experiences in the park.
The Spirit of a Cast Member
Despite being in his nineties, Ameen shows no intention of retiring from his beloved position at Disneyland. He remains committed to bringing joy to guests and cast members alike. His enduring passion for his work speaks volumes about his dedication to the Disney culture and his love for the park.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Hank Ameen’s story serves as an inspiring testament to the magic and longevity of the Disneyland experience. His journey is mentioned in detail on the Disney Parks Blog, celebrating not only his decades of service but also the profound impact he has had on the Disneyland community.
The Walt Disney Legacy Award he received illustrates more than just his years of service; it underscores the essence of what it means to be part of the Disney family. As he continues to brighten the days of park visitors, Ameen remains a living embodiment of the spirit that Walt Disney instilled in his parks—a spirit characterized by creativity, imagination, and a commitment to happiness.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Anaheim Set to Host Employee Experience Conference at Disneyland Resort
Additional Resources
- ABC7: Hank Ameen Receives Walt Disney Legacy Award
- Wikipedia: Disneyland
- ABC7: Meet Hank Ameen
- Google Search: Walt Disney Legacy Award
- OC Register: Disneyland Firefighter
- Google Scholar: Disney employees
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Walt Disney Company
- Google News: Disneyland news
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
