Doc Church donates MIA/POW chair

Taken from the Summer 2017 edition of  Keystone Leatherneck: On April 28, 2017, Valley Forge Military Academy and College held a wonderful dedication ceremony for a Chair of Honor for Prisoners of War-Missing in Action in Wayne, Pa. Commander Paul Galanti USN (Ret), a seven-year POW during the Vietnam War, accepted the chair from Colonel John C. “Doc” Church, Jr.,USMCR (Ret.), president of VFMAC. This chair symbolizes there will always be a place at Valley Forge Military Academy & College awaiting the return of those service members. Paul is a graduate of VFMAC. He spoke about his POW experience and commented upon his special relationship with Colonel John Ripley,USMC (Ret.). Doc noted that his youngest daughter, Claire Ripley, is named after the Marine Corps legend. Paul told the gathering which included his VFMAC classmates that he “never had a bad day as a POW.” All were humbled and honored to be in his presence. The chair was graciously donated by the Consentino Family, left of chair. Also pictured is Commander Galanti and President Church.