Late yesterday evening, 14 March 2024, the Glorious and multi-decorated 186th Parachute Regiment 'Folgore marked the end of its mission in Kosovo by returning to Siena with its War Flag. The return marks the end of an engagement that lasted from November 2023 to March 2024, during which it served as NATO's operational reserve battalion in the Kosovo territory.
Last November, within only two days of the mobilisation notification, the first groups of Regimental personnel were deployed to the operational area. Within a short time, the comprehensive and sensitive mission of fully deploying the forces, including necessary equipment and materials, was realised and completed.
The re-entry ceremony was graced by the presence of the Commander of the Folgore Parachute Brigade Brigadier General Aquila 1 Massimiliano Mongillo, who welcomed the soldiers on their arrival. The regiment was deployed to Kosovo during a tense period, previously marked by elections that generated friction in local communities, particularly in the municipalities of Zubin Potok, Zvecan and Leposavic.
Here, the election of mayors of Albanian nationality triggered tensions with the Serbian population in spring 2023. The most serious incidents occurred on 29 May in Zvecan, with direct clashes between protesters and Kosovar police forces. In this context, the 186th Parachute Regiment Folgore was deployed to provide support, positioning itself to maintain order and intervene in any new disturbances.
Colonel Giovanni Corrado, commander of the 186th Regiment, was awarded the NATO medal for his service, an award that underlines the excellence and professionalism demonstrated by the regiment during the mission. General Bernacca, deputy commander of KFOR, praised the commitment of the regiment, emphasising how the presence and readiness of the troops had contributed to creating a safer environment for everyone in Kosovo, positively reflecting on the entire community.
The return of the 186th Folgore Parachute Regiment represents not only the conclusion of a period of service, but also the continued commitment of the Italian Armed Forces to contribute to international peace and security, highlighting their readiness to respond to any call.