In Livorno, at the historic Villa Ruspoli, a solemn ceremony was held for the handover of the NCO of the Folgore Parachute Brigade. In the presence of the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Federico Bernacca, the 1st Lieutenant Alessandro Pellegrino handed over to the 1st Lieutenant Quirino D'Amico, a new Corps NCO, after more than four years of service in this important function.

This event not only celebrates the handover, but is also a moment to reflect on the importance of the NCO's role within the Brigade, which is crucial for maintaining discipline and staff cohesion.

The Corps NCO is a point of reference for all military personnel and his or her role is essential to support the commander's leadership. In a military context, where operations may require quick and critical decisions, the Corps NCO must be able to ensure that every man and woman in the unit feels supported and motivated.

The role of the non-commissioned officer

1st Lieutenant Quirino D'Amico, the new Corps NCO of the Folgore, brings with him vast experience and expertise. His long career is a testament to his dedication and commitment to the service and he has demonstrated, during his military career, excellent leadership skills that will be fundamental in meeting the Brigade's future challenges.

This figure is chosen directly by the Commanders for their character, human and professional qualities.

The corps SU plays a crucial role in maintaining corps spirit, ensuring the well-being and morale of personnel and overseeing the disciplinary aspects of the unit.

Within the departments, he facilitates the integration of newly assigned personnel, strengthens ties with those who have been transferred and supports the families of the fallen and wounded, as well as actively intervening in the management of any traumatic events that might affect their unit. His task also extends to planning and organising activities that promote the psychological well-being of military personnel, such as sports and cultural events, which are crucial for group cohesion.

The profile of the new Corps NCO: 1st Lieutenant Quirino D'Amico

Born on 5 July 1973 in Bari, Italy, 1st Lieutenant Quirino D'Amico began his military career on 2 March 1992, attending the 72nd A.S. Course at the Viterbo Petty Officer Cadet School. After completing his specialisation course at the Cesano Infantry School in Rome in 1993, he was assigned to the 187th Parachute Regiment Folgore in 1994, holding a wide range of command and operational assignments:

• Parachute rifle squad and platoon commander;
• Second-in-command adjutant;
• Assistant and attaché in the Training Office;
• Company marshal;
• Liaison officer in Afghanistan;
• Chief clerk in Iraq.

Operational missions

1st Lgt. D'Amico has participated in numerous international missions, including:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina (1996-1997, 1999-2000);
• Albania (1997);
• Kosovo (2001, 2002, 2004);
• Afghanistan (2003, 2007-2008);
• Iraq (2005, 2017-2018);
• Lebanon (2023).

He also took part in the national 'Strade Sicure' operations in Florence (2016-2017) and Rome (2020-2021).

Courses and specialisations

His professional profile is enriched by a long series of courses and specialisations, including:

• Italian, German, American and Japanese military parachuting patents;
• Daring course;
• Military shooting instructor and marksman;
• Free-fall aviation;
• Expert Infantryman Course ;
• Launch director with automatic opening;
• Intelligence Orientation Course;
• Urban combat and parachuting instructor.

Honours and Awards

The career of 1st Lgt. D'Amico has been recognised with numerous decorations, including:

• NATO medals for missions in the Balkans and Kosovo;
• Commemorative crosses for missions in Iraq, Afghanistan and Lebanon;
• Silver medal for military parachuting (15 years);
• Gold Cross with star for 40 years of service;
• Mauritian medal for 50 years of service;
• Meritorious Service Medal (USA).

The honours and awards received by 1st Lgt. D'Amico are recognition of his commitment and skills. Personal achievements that contribute to the prestige of the Folgore Brigade and inspire other soldiers to pursue excellence.

We wish 1st Lieutenant Quirino D'Amico all the best on his prestigious achievement! Thunderbolt!

Source Italian Army