82nd Anniversary of the Battle of El-Alamein amidst a thousand emotions: the memory of the brave Lions, the change of Brigade Commander and the tribute to Vincenzo Aiello

Today, 23 October 2024, the Pisa Parachute Training Centre (CAPAR) è stato teatro di una celebrazione solenne e carica di emozione: l’82nd anniversary of the Battle of El-Alamein, in concomitanza con la Festa della Specialità Paracadutisti e l’avvicendamento al Comando della Brigata. La caserma Gamerra, gremita di migliaia di Paracadutisti in servizio e in congedo, è diventata per un giorno un punto di ritrovo intergenerazionale. Paracadutisti di ogni epoca e generazione si sono stretti intorno ai valori che da sempre distinguono le aviotruppe del nostro Esercito.

The celebration was not only a tribute to one of the most significant battles of World War II, but also a moment to reflect on how those values of tenacity, sacrifice and willpower are still the very essence of the Parachute Specialty today.

Schieramento dell’eccellenza militare Italia

The day saw the participation of several military units: in addition to the units of the Folgore Parachute Brigadealso those of the COMFOSE (Army Special Forces Command), the 1st Carabinieri Parachute Regiment Tuscaniaa representation of the Aere Brigade and the 132nd Armoured Brigade Ariete. The ceremony opened with the deployment of the war and institute flags of the departments and associations, followed by the parade of the participating units. Civil and military authorities were also present, underlining the importance of the event for both the Armed Forces and the Institutions.

The handover: a change in continuity

One of the central moments of the ceremony was the handover to the command of the Folgore Parachute Brigade. The Brigadier General Massimiliano Mongillo left the baton to the General Federico Bernacca. In un clima di grande rispetto e commozione, entrambi i comandanti hanno tenuto discorsi intensi, ricordando come la forza di volontà sia l’arma più importante che i Paracadutisti possiedono. Il richiamo alla battaglia di El-Alamein è stato costante, sottolineando come, anche oggi, quei valori forgiati nel deserto restino il cuore pulsante della Folgore.

The ceremony represented not only a formal change of leadership, but also a moment of reflection on the role of the Brigade in an increasingly complex military and geopolitical world. Continuity of values, internal cohesion and the ability to face new challenges were central themes in the two generals' speeches.

The authorities' speeches: pride, memory and topicality

The Capo di Stato Maggiore dell’Esercito, Generale di Corpo d’Armata Paracadutista Carmine Masiello, emphasised the strategic importance of the Folgore in contemporary international scenarios. His speech highlighted how the Brigade is, today more than ever, an essential resource for Italy and its allies in an increasingly unpredictable international context. He recalled that the ability to adapt and respond quickly is what makes the Folgore a unique unit.

La Under Secretary of Defence, Senator Isabella Rauti, ha espresso il suo ringraziamento per essere stata accolta nella “casa dei Paracadutisti” nel migliore dei modi. Nel suo intervento, ha ricordato con orgoglio: “I Paracadutisti si sono sempre distinti ovunque siano stati impiegati, portando onore al tricolore. Siate fieri del vostro spirito di corpo. La Folgore è un’eccellenza.”

The Senator then shared her personal recollection of her last visit to El-Alamein, expressing concern for the future of that sacred site, threatened by economic and tourist interests. She reiterated the commitment of the Ministry of Defence, her own, to protect the historical integrity of El-Alamein, with respect for the 'boys' who fought and gave their lives there.

Finally, Senator Rauti wished to reiterate Italy's role in international missions, such as UNIFIL, emphasising that the country will not back down, even in light of recent difficult and complex events.

Un ricordo doloroso: l’omaggio a Vincenzo Aiello

The day was not only a time of celebration, but also of moving remembrance. Mongillo, Bernacca, Masiello, and finally Senator Rauti, wished to pay tribute to the memory of the Sergente Maggiore Aiutante Vincenzo Aiello, militare del 185° Reggimento Paracadutisti Ricognizione Acquisizione Obiettivi Folgore (RRAO), tragicamente scomparso il 22 ottobre durante un’esercitazione nelle acque del lago di Bolsena. The petty officer's body was found just this night, adding a veil of sadness to the ceremony. His memory was honoured with great respect and emotion during the speeches of the three generals and the Senator.

The final launch and display of equipment

The ceremony ended with a spectacular moment: Parachutists and paratroopers from the Army Sports Centre performed a free-fall jump from a CH-47 helicopter, carrying several flags, including a 60 m² tricolour. This demonstration of great skill and professionalism sealed an emotionally charged day, once again uniting all those present under the banner of the courage and dedication that characterise the Folgore.

Afterwards, as the event continued, the Folgore units set up exhibition stands where visitors could take a closer look at the weapons and equipment used by the Paratroopers, providing a rare opportunity to better understand the work and commitment of these men and women who serve the country with a great spirit of sacrifice.