As POW/MIA Recognition Day approaches on Friday, preparations continue for The Philadelphia Veterans Parade & Festival. Ralph Galati, a U.S. Air Force veteran and former POW, will be the grand marshal. The 11th annual event will take place on Sunday, Nov. 9, beginning at noon, with the parade route heading down Benjamin Franklin Parkway, culminating at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, with the Veterans Festival taking place in Eakins Oval until 4 p.m.
As a Forward Air Controller in Southeast Asia, Galati’s mission was cut short when he was shot down and captured, spending 14 months as a prisoner of war in North Vietnam. He was later awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Star with Valor, Purple Heart and Prisoner of War Medal.
After his military career, Galati transitioned into a 30-year tenure in corporate America and went on to serve as the founder/director of the Office of Veterans Services at his alma mater, St. Joseph’s University, instituting a new Veterans Entrepreneurship Program.
“Ralph Galati’s story is one of bravery, endurance and purpose,” said Anthony Murphy, president of the Philadelphia Veterans Parade & Festival. “As a veteran, a leader and an advocate for those who’ve served, Ralph embodies the spirit of the Philadelphia Veterans Parade & Festival. We’re honored to have him as the 2025 grand marshal.”
“I’m humbled and appreciative to be named grand marshal of the 2025 Philadelphia Veterans Parade,” Galati said. “This event is not only a celebration of service, but also an opportunity to raise continued awareness of the challenges many veterans still face. I’m honored to represent all who have served, and to help ensure their stories are heard and their needs addressed.”
Founded in 2014, the Philadelphia Veterans Parade & Festival features more than 150 organizations and attracts over 7,000 participants annually. The organization is run by a volunteer Board of Directors, members and organizing committee. For more information, to register to participate or to become a sponsor, visit www.phillyveteransparade.org. ••
