In the heart of Italy, 428 young people have sworn allegiance to the Republic, embracing the values of the Armed Forces and taking on the solemn commitment to serve the country with honor and dedication. In the evocative setting of Viterbo, the Army Non-Commissioned Officers School hosted the Joint Oath Ceremony of the Army and Air Force Cadet Marshals. A day full of emotion, symbols, and words destined to leave a mark on the human and professional journey of the protagonists. Present were the highest institutional and military authorities, including the Minister of Defense, Hon. Guido Crosetto.
A Single “I Swear” for Two Armed Forces
At the historic Army Non-Commissioned Officers School in Viterbo, the Joint Oath Ceremony of the Cadet Marshals of the 27th “Volontà” Course of the Italian Army and the “Izar II” Course of the Air Force took place. A solemn and significant setting welcomed 132 Army cadets and 296 Air Force cadets, ready to publicly confirm their commitment to the Italian Republic and its Institutions.
The ceremony, presided over by the Minister of Defense Guido Crosetto, saw the participation of the Chief of Staff of the Army, General of the Army Corps Carmine Masiello, the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, Air Squadron General Luca Goretti, and the leaders of the training of the two Armed Forces: General of the Army Corps Carlo Lamanna and Air Squadron General Silvano Frigerio. Also present were civil, religious authorities, and associative representatives, including the Prefect of Viterbo Gennaro Capo and the President of the Province Alessandro Romoli.
The event began with the entrance of the Banner of the city and Province of Viterbo, followed by the Standards of the Combat and Weapon Associations and the War Flags of the Schools. After the performance of musical honors by an interforce band, Major General Maurizio Taffuri, Commander of the Army Non-Commissioned Officers School, and Colonel Gianluca Spina, Commander of the Air Force Marshals School, pronounced the oath formula. The “I swear” shouted in unison resonated strongly, sealing the moral commitment of those present. To crown the moment, the flyover of a mixed formation of TH-500 and HH-139 helicopters and a choreographic tricolor artillery salute.
The Words of the Authorities: “To You We Entrust the Future of Italy”
The Minister of Defense Guido Crosetto spoke directly to the young cadets, with words that touched the hearts of the families and the oath-takers themselves:
"I am here for you, to honor your choice. In front of your parents, who today feel immense pride, but also a hint of melancholy. It is natural when seeing a child grow up. But today they have one more reason to be proud: your sons and daughters have sworn to protect us all."
In a particularly significant passage, Crosetto added:
"In a time when everything seems uncertain, you have chosen to be a constant, faithful to values that do not change over time."
His speech concluded with a heartfelt thank you:
"I am not here just to review you, but to thank you on behalf of the Institutions and to welcome you into the great family of Defense. To you, we entrust the future of the country."
Major General Taffuri also delivered a strong message to the young future Army marshals:
"You will become platoon commanders. Always have the courage to make decisions, be proactive, be an example for your men. Training, discipline, humanity: all this makes a soldier a true leader."
"I am sure you will rise to the occasion, even at the cost of your life."
Colonel Gianluca Spina urged the Air Force cadets to believe in their choice:
"This is just the beginning. Love and respect the institutions, be ready to defend them with honor."
"Shout with deep conviction the pride for the life you have chosen. Face challenges with determination, because wearing this uniform is a privilege, but also a responsibility."
Symbols, Tradition, and Passing the Torch
During the ceremony, the Baptism of the “Izar II” Course of the Air Force was also celebrated, which officially assumed its distinctive name. A moment full of significance was represented by the blessing of the Course Pennant, passed from the hands of the Chief President of the Non-Commissioned Officers, Graduates, and Troop Soldiers of the Air Force, 1st Warrant Officer Mario Bonaventura, to the Godfather of the “Izar I” Course and finally to the Head of the “Izar II” Course. A symbolic passage that represents the continuity of values, the sense of belonging, and the transmission of the spirit of corps from one generation to the next.
The solemn Oath represents the first true milestone of a military career, a moment that remains etched in the memory of every non-commissioned officer. In Viterbo, in an institutional setting full of national pride, the cry of the 428 cadets reminded everyone that commitment to the Homeland is an act of will, courage, and love. A commitment that continues, every day, in training, in service, and in defending what makes Italy a free and secure nation.
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