UPDATE: Delaware County’s own Ralph Galati has been announced as the Grand Marshal for the 11th annual Philadelphia Veterans Day Parade, set to take place on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at noon. This highly anticipated event will commence at 21st Street and Ben Franklin Parkway, making its way past the iconic Philadelphia Art Museum to the lively Eakins Oval.
The parade will honor Galati, a dedicated veterans advocate and Vietnam War hero, who spent 14 months as a prisoner of war in Hanoi. Galati expressed his excitement, stating, “I’m honored to represent veterans, especially Vietnam Veterans, in the city that I was born and raised.”
This year’s parade will spotlight the “Hometown Heroes” segment, featuring five notable veterans: Joe Eastman, Vanessa Morbeck, Gerald Tempesta, Mary McCorvey, and Daniel Lee, all showcasing the strength and resilience of Philadelphia’s veteran community.
In the lead-up to the parade, a special screening of “The Ralph Galati Story” will take place on Friday, November 7, 2025, at 7 p.m. at The Mandeville Hall Teletorium, St. Joseph’s University. This feature-length documentary details Galati’s harrowing experience as a combat pilot and his time in captivity. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. and includes a Q&A session hosted by former U.S. Representative Patrick Murphy.
The documentary, directed by Shawn Swords, highlights Galati’s remarkable journey and the impact of his service, drawing on interviews from veterans, family members, and advocates. Galati noted, “I feel nervous… I will be equally stunned along with the rest of the attendees,” as he prepares to see the film for the first time.
American Veterans Media (AVM), the organization behind the documentary, is dedicated to preserving veterans’ stories and educating the public on military service’s realities. Donations to support their initiatives are encouraged during the screening.
As the parade approaches, anticipation builds for the festival, which will run from noon to 4 p.m. at Eakins Oval. Attendees can expect food, drinks, and family-friendly activities, making it a perfect opportunity to honor those who served.
Galati, a former flight instructor and Pentagon officer, has received numerous accolades throughout his military career, including the Silver Star and Purple Heart. His commitment to veterans continues post-retirement through his involvement with the Delaware County Veterans Memorial Association.
For those looking to participate, more information about the parade and festival can be found at http://phillyveteransparade.org, and details about the documentary are available at www.americanveteransmedia.org.
Don’t miss this chance to celebrate our veterans and witness the inspiring story of Ralph Galati!
