Philadelphia will honor its veterans on November 9, 2023, as the 11th annual Veterans Day Parade and Festival takes place. This year, Ralph Galati, a lifelong advocate for veterans, has been named the grand marshal of the parade. The event will commence at noon at 21st Street and Ben Franklin Parkway, proceeding past the iconic Philadelphia Art Museum to Eakins Oval.
The festival will run from noon to 4 p.m. at Eakins Oval, featuring food, beverages, and activities suitable for families. Among the honorees joining Galati in the parade’s Hometown Heroes segment are Joe Eastman, Vanessa Morbeck, Gerald Tempesta, Mary McCorvey, and Daniel Lee. They embody the resilience and spirit of Philadelphia’s veteran community.
Documentary Premiere Highlights Galati’s Journey
In conjunction with the parade, a feature-length documentary titled The Ralph Galati Story will be screened on November 7 at 7 p.m. at The Mandeville Hall Teletorium, Saint Joseph’s University. Directed by Shawn Swords, the film chronicles Galati’s experiences as a Vietnam combat pilot and his harrowing 14-month captivity in the “Hanoi Hilton.”
The film, produced by Swords along with James Kirlin, Paul Russo, and Mark Kulkowitz, aims to provide a comprehensive look at Galati’s life, illustrating not just his military service but his continued advocacy for veterans. A question-and-answer session will follow the screening, hosted by former U.S. Representative and Army Undersecretary Patrick Murphy. While admission is free, donations to support American Veterans Media’s projects are welcomed.
Galati’s Legacy and Continued Advocacy
Ralph Galati’s military career began after he graduated from St. Joseph’s University in 1970 and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Air Force. He served as a weapon systems officer and was shot down over North Vietnam on February 16, 1972. Following his release on March 28, 1973, Galati dedicated himself to advocating for fellow veterans. His awards include the Silver Star, Bronze Star with Valor, and the Purple Heart.
After retiring from a 28-year career at IBM in 2007, Galati has remained active in veterans’ affairs. He has served as a veterans liaison for Delaware County and founded the Office of Veterans Services at his alma mater, focusing on entrepreneurship training for veterans. He continues to influence veterans’ issues through roles with the Delaware County Veterans Memorial Association and the American Red Cross.
In a recent statement, Galati expressed his excitement to represent veterans in the city where he was born. “I am honored and excited to be representing veterans, especially Vietnam Veterans,” he said. He will walk alongside his fellow veterans during the parade, marking only the second time he has participated in such an event.
The Philadelphia Veterans Day Parade is a significant occasion for the city, honoring the sacrifices of its veterans. For more information about the parade and festival, visit http://phillyveteransparade.org. Additionally, American Veterans Media will offer The Ralph Galati Story as a pay-per-view streaming option after Thanksgiving, with more details available at http://americanveteransmedia.org.
