National Parachutists Association of Italy (A.N.P.I.)

The Associazione Nazionale Paracadutisti d'Italia (A.N.P.d'I.) stands out as the reference body for Italian parachuting, recognised for its official nature since 1956 and identified by 2010 legislation as the only association body dedicated to parachutists in the country. The association is among the founding bodies of the European Parachutists Union (EUP).

The A.N.P.d'I.. comprises ex-combatants, military and non-military patented parachutists.

The activities promoted range from military and sports training to commemorative events and meetings that strengthen the sense of community and belonging. The parachuting courses, open to different age groups and both sexes, are designed to impart not only technical skills but also the values of courage, discipline and camaraderie.

The association not only cares for the practice and dissemination of parachuting in Italy but also embodies a commitment to memory and respect for traditions, acting as the guardian of a historical legacy and timeless values.

The A.N.P.d'I., as stated on its website It is non-partisan, non-profit, and has the following aims:

Love and loyalty to the Fatherland
The glorification of paratroopers fallen in the performance of their duty, in war and in peace, perpetuating their memory
The exaltation of the glories of the Speciality and the celebration of specific anniversaries
Maintain the bonds of solidarity with the Armed Forces, exalting their work in the defence of the homeland and the service of peace
Establish fruitful relations of friendship and fellowship with members of sister associations
Possibly support or implement civil protection initiatives
Providing assistance in every possible form to members
Awarding scholarships at national level, to needy and deserving members
Disseminating the spirit, traditions, activities and news of Italian parachuting through the publication of the specific 'Folgore' magazine and the www.assopar.it website, the printing and distribution of historical and technical texts, and the holding of conferences
Cooperate with other organisations with common aims or programmes, including the European Parachute Union of which the Association is a founding member

The structure of the A.N.P.d'I. is divided into various organs and sections spread throughout the country, making it an essential reference point for those who belong to or aspire to enter the world of parachuting. With over 130 sections, the association provides a fundamental connective tissue between parachutists of different generations and categories, promoting the exchange of experiences and the continuity of parachuting values.

History of the A.N.P.d'I.

The origins of the Associazione Nazionale Paracadutisti d'Italia (A.N.P.d'I.) date back to the immediate post-war period, when a group of ex-combatants and young people, inspired by daring and a passion for flying, decided to set up an organisation that could represent and unite the world of parachuting in Italy.

Associazione Nazionale Paracadutisti d'Italia (A.N.P.d'I.) - brigatafolgore.net — Coat of Arms of the Associazione Nazionale Paracadutisti d'Italia (A.N.P.I.)

In 1946, the Associazione Paracadutisti Italiani (A.P.I.) was founded, a pioneer in outlining the future of national parachuting and promoting experimental lancistic activities. With the increase in its membership and the creation of territorial sections, the A.P.I. consolidated its role in the Italian associative and sporting fabric.

In 1949, the A.P.I. was transformed, giving rise to a new committee that later led to the founding of the Associazione Sport Aerei (A.S.A.) and, later, the Federazione Italiana Paracadutismo Civile Sportivo (F.I.P.C.S.), which evolved into the Federazione Italiana Paracadutismo Sportivo (F.I.P.S.), thanks to the influence of ex-combatants.

However, the term 'sporting' did not fully reflect the military identity and traditions deeply rooted among parachutists, leading to the birth of the National Parachute Association. Officially recognised in 1956, the association has embodied the continuity and evolution of military parachuting values and experience ever since.

In the 1960s, the A.N.P.d'I. intensified its activities, establishing strong links with military units and opening new sections throughout Italy. These sections honoured the war parachutists and promoted the training of new generations, in cooperation with military structures and through specific conventions.

The partnership with the Parachute Brigade Folgore the 46th Airborne Brigade and the Army Aviation, guaranteed resources and support for parachute training, distinguishing A.N.P.d'I. for the quality and authenticity of the training offered. With the opening of schools and centres with their own facilities and equipment, the association has strengthened its commitment to the evolution of parachuting, always keeping alive the memory and inspiration of the historical values and brotherhood that marked its birth and development.

The current president is Army Corps General (Aux.) Parachutist Raider Marco Bertolini. The official website is www.assopar.it.