At the 'Pisacane' barracks in Livorno, a ceremony full of historical significance was held for the 185th Regimental Reconnaissance Unit (RRAO) 'Folgore'.. The Colonel Marco Margutti, Commander of the 185th RRAO, a department that will be part of the special forces from 2018, received the historical banner of the F' Reconnaissance Squadronsymbol of the courage and sacrifice of Italian paratroopers during the Italian campaign of 1943-1945.
The handing over of the labarum, which has been kept since the war in the Air Force Museum of the CAPAR (Parachute Training Centre) in Pisa, took place in the presence of high civil and military authorities, including the President of the Senate Ignazio La Russa and the Chief of Staff of the Army, Lieutenant General Carmine Masiello.
From past to present
F Squadron, commanded by Captain Carlo Francesco Gaydistinguished himself during the Second World War in numerous reconnaissance and combat operations, culminating in the success of theOperation 'Herring' in the Po Valley, 23 April 1945. The banner, made by the men of the Squadron, shows the locations of the main war actions and is a tribute to the paratroopers who sacrificed themselves for the freedom of Italy.
In his speech, Colonel Margutti emphasised the profound historical and emotional value of the banner:
"This banner embodies inalienable values of sacrifice, courage, loyalty, love of country and memory. It is a symbol that will continue to inspire new generations of paratroopers."
The Colonel also recalled the Sergeant Major Adjutant Vincenzo Aiellowho died in a training accident on 23 October 2024, dedicating a moment of meditation to him.
The historical value of the labarum
The F Squadron's banner is not only a symbol, but a witness to Italian military history. Among the recognitions on the banner are numerous honours awarded to the Squadron's paratroopers, such as 3 Gold Military Valour Medals, 100 Silver Military Valour Medals, 25 Bronze Military Valour Medals, 66 Military Valour Crosses and 4 Promotions for War Merits. These awards, documented in the Gay family archives, include the MOVMs awarded to the Lieutenant Eldo Capanna, at Sergeant Major Otello Boccherini and the Parachutist Amelio De Iuliis.
The ceremony: a bridge between past and future
The ceremony ended with the signing of the Roll of Honour by Senate President Ignazio La Russa, who then visited the 'Hall of Remembrance' of the 185th RRAO. The labarum that has just been received will be kept in this room together with other memorabilia bearing witness to the evolution and historical exploits of Italian paratroopers.
The 185th RRAO thus confirms itself as the natural heir of the F Squadronintegrating values and traditions. This union of past and present reaffirms the importance of historical memory as a guide for the future of Italian paratroopers and special forces.
