The Chief of Army Staff between Modena and Verona: General Masiello meets Officer Cadets and Volunteers in training

The Chief of Staff of the Italian Army, Lieutenant General Carmine Masiello, met on October 2 with Officer Cadets of the 208° Corso “Fedeltà” at the Accademia Militare di Modena.

The visit then continued at the “Giovanni Duca” barracks in Montorio Veronese, home of the 85° RAV “Verona”, where Masiello met with Volunteers from the 2° blocco 2026.

The meeting with the 208° Corso

At the Accademia Militare di Modena, the Chief of SME paid tribute to the Institute Flag. It is decorated with the Bronze Medal for Army Valor and the Gold Cross for Merit of the Arma dei Carabinieri.

In the Great Hall of the military institute, Masiello then met the new cadets of the 208° Corso “Fedeltà”. Their academic program officially began on October 1, following one month of training as Aspirant Officer Cadets.

The cadets will now undertake a three-year training program designed to prepare them to lead an increasingly complex and technologically advanced organization. While remaining rooted in the Academy’s historical origins, the program is updated over time.

Addressing the cadets, Masiello recalled the meaning of service and the responsibility of command. He identified discipline, honor, patriotism, authority, leading by example, courage, duty and consistency as guiding principles for their future decisions.

The general also stressed that the choice they have made entails challenges, hardship and sacrifice. Training at the Academy, he added, must equip them to face the difficulties of life in the Italian Army and the Arma dei Carabinieri.

Discussion with the VFI

In Montorio Veronese, the Chief of SME was welcomed by the Regimental Commander, Colonel Emanuele Patalano. After receiving honors, he saluted the Regiment’s War Flag.

Masiello then met with the VFI and the training personnel from the chain of command responsible for instruction. The visit provided an opportunity for direct discussion with young people who recently chose a professional career in the Italian Army.

In his remarks, the general highlighted the role of young Volunteers and the value of initial training. According to Masiello, this provides the foundation for developing preparedness, professionalism and awareness in military life.

The Chief of SME recalled the importance of duty, courage, loyalty and patriotism, also focusing on discipline. This, he explained, is not limited to simply carrying out orders, but requires understanding and consciously embracing them.

Training beyond the first three months

Masiello ultimately described training as the fighter’s only true «insurance policy.» He specified that it does not end with the three months of initial training, but accompanies service members throughout their professional lives.

From this journey, the general concluded, arises the mutual trust among the members of a unit. A bond that helps keep it united and clear-headed even in the most difficult situations.