In the heart of Disneyland, a 92-year-old man strolls along Main Street, U.S.A., his eyes twinkling with the same enthusiasm he had when he first started as a Jungle Cruise skipper in 1958. This man is Henry Ameen, affectionately known as Hank, a Disney legend whose dedication and passion have left an indelible mark on the company’s history.
The Beginning of a Lifelong Love Affair
Hank’s love for Disney began long before he became a cast member. In 1955, just one month after Disneyland opened its gates, Hank and his wife visited the park on their honeymoon. Armed with his new Kodak Brownie camera, Hank captured the magic of the park on eight-millimeter film, footage he cherishes to this day. Little did he know that this visit would be the start of a remarkable journey that would span over six decades.
From Air Force Veteran to Jungle Cruise Skipper
Three years after his honeymoon visit, Hank officially joined the Disney family as a cast member. Fresh from serving in the United States Air Force, he was hired as a Jungle Cruise skipper, a role that perfectly suited his outgoing personality and quick wit. Hank’s previous experience as a bartender had prepared him well for entertaining guests, and he quickly mastered the art of delivering humorous spiels. “I picked it up, and then lo and behold, people were clapping, and they liked my spiel,” Hank recalls with a chuckle. “I felt pretty good about that.”
A Call to Serve: Balancing Firefighting and Disney Magic
After a few summer seasons at Disneyland, Hank felt the call to serve his community in a different capacity. As an active individual with a passion for helping others, he joined the Garden Grove Fire Department, embarking on a fulfilling 35-year career as a city fireman. However, his love for Disney never wavered. On his days off, Hank returned to the park, this time as a Disneyland Resort firefighter, ensuring the safety of guests and cast members during the nightly firework spectaculars. “I have a passion for what I do because I feel like we are protecting the magic,” Hank explains, his voice filled with pride.
A Legendary Legacy: 62 Years and Counting
As of October 8, 2024, Hank celebrates his 62nd service anniversary, solidifying his status as the current longest-standing employee of The Walt Disney Company. Over the course of his remarkable career, he has witnessed the park’s evolution, from the construction of iconic attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean to the ever-changing landscape of the resort. He has also had the privilege of creating unforgettable memories, such as having lunch with Walt Disney himself. “He started walking towards my table, but I never thought that he would sit with me,” Hank shares, his eyes gleaming with wonder. “He pulled up a chair and he asked me questions like, ‘How do you like working here? How do you like the food? What can I do?’ It was maybe a 10-minute conversation. That was a wonderful memory.”
Embracing Life’s Opportunities
Hank’s journey at Disney has been filled with once-in-a-lifetime experiences. From hosting Olympians at Disneyland in 1964 to enjoying cast picnics with Walt Disney and his family, he has embraced every opportunity with open arms. Hank’s adventurous spirit also led him to participate in the Disneyland 10k Marathons, where he won bronze, silver, and gold medals, a testament to his determination and zest for life.
The Power of Community and Camaraderie
While Hank cherishes the incredible experiences he has had at Disney, his favorite memories revolve around the community he has built as a cast member, particularly among his fellow Disneyland Resort firefighters. “I have great pride in the people I work with. I learn from them and hopefully they learn from me,” Hank shares, his voice filled with humility and appreciation. This admiration is reciprocated by his colleagues, who recently honored Hank by winning the cast member Canoe Races, ending the decades-long reign of the Davy Crockett team. The firefighters had vowed to win for Hank, and when they finally achieved this goal, they celebrated by inviting him to join their triumphant victory lap, amidst the resounding cheers of the cast.
The Secret to a Vibrant Life
When asked about the secret to his vitality, Hank’s answer is simple: keep moving and maintain a positive outlook. He starts his days by walking around the resort in the early morning hours before the parks open, taking in the serene beauty of the surroundings. When he’s not at the park, Hank can be found swimming or at the gym, staying active and engaged. “You have to have a good outlook on life. Make the best of it. Live in the moment,” he advises, his words carrying the wisdom of a life well-lived.
As for the future, Hank shows no signs of slowing down. When the topic of retirement arises, he pauses for a moment, a twinkle in his eye, and says, “As long as I can smile and laugh, I’m going to be here.” For Hank, Disney is not just a job; it’s a way of life, a source of joy and fulfillment that he eagerly embraces each day.
A Shining Example of Dedication and Passion
Henry Ameen’s 62-year journey at Disney is a testament to the power of dedication, passion, and the magic that can happen when one truly loves what they do. His commitment to serving others, ensuring safety, and preserving the enchantment of Disneyland Resort has left an indelible mark on the company’s history. But for those who have had the privilege of meeting Hank or working alongside him, it is clear that he is more than just a long-standing employee; he is the embodiment of the Disney spirit, a shining example of the magic that can happen when one dedicates their life to bringing joy to others.
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