Wallingford resident Ralph Galati shared his memories of Senator John McCain from the time they were both prisoners of war in Vietnam’s infamous “Hanoi Hilton,” writes Peg DeGrassa for the Daily Local News.
Galati decided to sign up for the Air Force ROTC after graduating from Saint Joseph’s University. He received his Wings in 1971, before being assigned to a base in Thailand.
In February 1972, Galati was shot down over North Vietnam. He was captured and taken to Hanoi prison camp, where he first came into contact with McCain.
“John McCain had a reputation of his own, as a dedicated soldier and strong resister and a citizen who loved America and always put country first,” said Galati.
Over the next 14 months, he spoke with McCain in the exercise yard. When McCain was released several weeks before Galati, he made sure to notify Galati’s family of his condition.
“He tracked down my family and called my wife. He tried to reassure them and allay their fears by telling them that he had talked with me,” said Galati.
Read more about Ralph Galati’s memories of John McCain in the Daily Local News by clicking here.
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