The 11th annual Philadelphia Veterans Day Parade will commence at noon on November 9, 2025, with Delaware County’s Ralph Galati serving as the grand marshal. Recognized for his lifelong advocacy for veterans, Galati’s leadership promises to add significance to the festivities, which will begin at 21st Street and Ben Franklin Parkway and conclude at Eakins Oval. The parade will pass iconic landmarks, including the Philadelphia Art Museum, before transitioning to a festival filled with food, drinks, and family-friendly activities from noon to 4 p.m.
Among the distinguished individuals joining Galati in the parade’s Hometown Heroes segment are Joe Eastman, Vanessa Morbeck, Gerald Tempesta, Mary McCorvey, and Daniel Lee. Each of these honorees embodies the tenacity and spirit of Philadelphia’s veteran community.
Documentary Screening: ‘The Ralph Galati Story’
The festivities will kick off early with a screening of the documentary “The Ralph Galati Story” on November 7 at 7 p.m. at The Mandeville Hall Teletorium at Saint Joseph’s University. Directed by Shawn Swords and featuring cinematography by Art Swanlund, the film chronicles Galati’s experience as a Vietnam combat pilot and his time as a prisoner of war in Hanoi.
Attendees can expect a question-and-answer session following the screening, hosted by former U.S. Representative and Army Undersecretary Patrick Murphy. While the screening is free, donations are encouraged to support American Veterans Media’s programming and documentary efforts.
The filmmakers conducted interviews with numerous veterans, family members, and friends to ensure a comprehensive portrayal of Galati’s life. The veteran himself expressed nervous anticipation about watching the documentary for the first time. “I have yet to see it, so I will be equally stunned along with the rest of the attendees,” Galati remarked.
Ralph Galati: A Life of Service
Born in Philadelphia, Ralph Galati’s journey took him from local schools to the skies as a U.S. Air Force officer. After graduating from Saint Joseph’s University in 1970, he underwent flight training and was deployed to Ubon Royal Thai Air Force Base. On February 16, 1972, he was shot down over North Vietnam and captured, spending the next 14 months as a prisoner of war.
Galati’s military accolades include the Silver Star, Bronze Star with Valor, and the Purple Heart. Following his military career, he worked with IBM and served as an adjunct professor at various institutions. He also held the position of veterans liaison for Delaware County.
His commitment to veterans’ advocacy continues through roles on the Board of Directors for the Delaware County Veterans Memorial Association and the Delaware Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross. Galati, who has received numerous awards for his service, emphasized the importance of supporting fellow veterans. “It is my comfort zone. Once I retired, I naturally migrated to a space where I felt I could make an impact,” he stated.
In a unique twist, Galati was recently honored by Evan Williams Bourbon as one of six veterans recognized as a 2025 American Made Hero. Additionally, a new ice cream treat named “Galati Gelati” debuted this summer at Cool Scoops Ice Cream Emporium.
As the Philadelphia Veterans Day Parade approaches, Galati looks forward to honoring his fellow veterans, particularly those from the Vietnam War. “I’m honored and excited to be representing veterans, especially Vietnam Veterans, in the city that I was born and raised,” he said.
For more information about the parade and festival, visit the official website at phillyveteransparade.org. American Veterans Media will also provide details regarding the documentary, which will be available for streaming following its premiere.
