A former POW will address Kent County veterans on Vietnam Veterans Day Saturday.
Ralph Galati and his pilot were shot down over North Vietnam in 1972. He spent the next 14 months as a prisoner of war in Hanoi.
He says it’s an honor to speak to Vietnam vets whenever he gets a chance.
“In 1973 when I got back from Vietnam, I was welcomed home...as were 600 or so of my colleagues. But three million Vietnam Vets were not," said Galati. "So any chance I can get to welcome them home and thank them for their service is always great. And I know the Memorial Park in Dover that we’re going to have the event at is really nicely placed and a great memorial for veterans of all eras.”
Galati says there are fewer Vietnam POW’s like himself around now, so he wants to tell his story and how it speaks to faith and resiliency. He also wants to thank all military service members and their families.
"It’s important to thank everyone for their service and also for military spouses and family members - to make sure we remember them for their sacrifices as well," said Galati. "And a lot of it is just relating some stories because people are curious, but also talk about how important the role of faith was and resiliency and reliance on your fellow man.”
Galati says he works on behalf of veterans everyday and the main issue they face is getting all the benefits they’re owed.
Saturday’s event starts at 2 p.m. at the Kent County Veterans Memorial Park on S. Little Creek Road in Dover. Social distancing and masks will be required.
