Vietnam War Hero: The Veterans Day Parade Grand Master
- Mary McCorvey
- Oct 28, 2025
- 2 min read
Originally published on Mary McCorvey's Substack.
When I think of courage, I don’t just think of the moment a jet goes down or a mission begins. I think of what happens after—the quiet decision to keep serving, to keep showing up, to turn experience into impact.
In this episode of Experience Over Expectation, I sit down with Ralph Galati, a Philadelphia-born Vietnam War veteran whose F-4 Phantom was shot down over North Vietnam in 1972. He survived fourteen months as a prisoner of war in the infamous “Hanoi Hilton,” was repatriated in 1973, and has spent the past five decades helping other veterans rebuild their lives.
This year, Ralph will serve as Grand Master of the Philadelphia Veterans Day Parade. We talk about what that honor means to him—and what Veterans Day should truly stand for.
“Memorial Day is for the fallen,” Ralph says. “Veterans Day should be a celebration for those who are still here—one veteran, one family, one day at a time.”
Our conversation moves from the fire of combat to the grace of service—through risk, recovery, and renewal. Ralph shares how he built a second life after captivity, how he found purpose in helping others find theirs, and why he believes measured risk is one of life’s greatest teachers.
In this episode:
The day Ralph’s F-4 Phantom was shot down
14 months inside the Hanoi Hilton
What Veterans Day should truly mean
Lessons learned from risk, leadership, and captivity
Creating programs that help veterans thrive after service
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Reflection
Ralph reminded me that service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. It’s something you carry forward—into mentorship, community, and the everyday moments where courage has no audience.
If you know a veteran, reach out this week. Ask about their story. Sometimes, that’s the parade they need most.
Experience Over Expectation Hosted by Mary McCorvey Let go of the plan. Live on your terms.
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