Portraits of Courage Exhibit at EPCOT

New Portraits of Courage Exhibit at EPCOT – A Touching Showcase from George W. Bush Institute

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Walt Disney World continues to roll out new experiences, especially at EPCOT. With so many exciting new Disney rides and shows, it’s nice to have something to enjoy that harkens to Disney’s commitment to military families. “Portraits of Courage: A Commander’s Tribute to America’s Warriors,” a special exhibit from the George W. Bush Institute, opened June 9, 2024 for a 12-month exhibition inside The American Adventure pavilion in EPCOT.

The exhibit brings together more than 60 full-color portraits painted by President Bush of service members and veterans. Each painting is accompanied by the inspiring story of the veteran depicted, written by the President. During an invited media event, our team explored this incredible gallery together.

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Portraits of Courage Exhibit

The exhibit grows out of President Bush’s commitment and the ongoing work of the Bush Institute’s Veterans and Military Families program. This extraordinary art exhibit brings together vibrant oil paintings by President Bush of service members and veterans who have served in military uniform with honor since 9/11, and whom the President has come to know personally since leaving office.

Walking among these portraits felt special, knowing that a former president of the United States painted them himself.

Two people looking at paintings from the Portraits of Courage Exhibit at EPCOT
Portraits of Courage Exhibit – Image by Dani Meyering

Each painting is accompanied by the inspiring story of the veteran depicted and guests visiting the exhibit will learn more about these military heroes’ journey. 

These include tales of valiant service on the battlefield, resilience in recovering from injury to the continued leadership and contributions they make in their post-military careers. Even better is that each story was personally written by President Bush himself. 

“We are thrilled 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.”

Three paintings from the Portraits of Courage Exhibit at EPCOT
Portraits of Courage Exhibit – Image by Dani Meyering

The exhibit also includes “Letters to the President”, a display featuring personal letters from veterans who served as the inspiration for some of the paintings.

Offering Resources for Post 9/11 Veterans

Additionally, the exhibit included information and resources created to support post-9/11 veterans and their families. One of those resources, called Check-In, is a tool for veterans and their families to easily connect to no-cost, high-quality, mental and brain health care.

To learn more about Check-In, visit Veterancheckin.org.