I Am the American Legion - Paul E. Galanti

Paul E. Galanti

“The Legion is the last of the patriotic groups. Period. Our Legionnaires go into schools and speak about their experience, and the youngsters are stunned because it’s not taught to them. The only way to get the word out is from Legionnaires showing up in a public forum and speaking.”

Branch of Service: Navy

Years: 1958-1982

MOS: Naval Aviator

Rank at Discharge: Commander

Decorations:
- Silver Star
- Legion of Merit with “V” (2)
- Bronze Star with “V”
- Air Medal (2)
- Meritorious Service Medal
- Navy Commendation Medal
- Navy Achievement Medal
- Purple Heart (2)

American Legion Post: Post 84, Westhampton, Va.

Number of Years in the Legion: 20

Galanti speaks on behalf of many veterans service organizations, including The American Legion, sharing the story of the 97 combat missions he flew in an A-4 Skyhawk before he was shot down and captured near Vinh, North Vietnam, on June 17, 1966. He was a prisoner at the infamous “Hanoi Hilton” for nearly seven years and was released on Feb. 12, 1973.