On a day filled with history and memory, a delegation from the 185th Parachute Reconnaissance Objective Acquisition Regiment 'Folgore led by Colonel Marco Margutti, undertook a significant journey through the key sites of Operation 'Herring', a particularly emblematic episode in Italy's participation in the Second World War. The infiltration and sabotage action was carried out from the night of 20 April to 23 April 1945 by Allied and co-belligerent forces in northern Italy, south of the river Po, then in the territory of the Italian Social Republic.
The visit began at the Second World War museum located in Felonica, on the banks of the river Po. Here, the regiment had the opportunity to immerse themselves in history through the numerous historical artefacts recovered in the area, silent witnesses of the events that took place there.
Continuing on their path of remembrance and recognition, the paratroopers made their way to Dragoncello di Poggio Rusco, where they were welcomed by mayor Fabio Zacchi and members of the National Parachutists Association of Italy (ANPDI) of the local section. A highlight of the visit was the minute's silence observed at the war memorial in Dragoncello, in honour of the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country.
The final leg of the tour took the regiment to CÃ Bruciata, the scene of one of the most intense battles in which twelve paratroopers lost their lives.
The visit of the 185th Parachute Reconnaissance Target Acquisition Regiment 'Folgore' to the sites of Operation Herring was not only a tribute to the fallen, but also an opportunity to strengthen the link between the new generations of military personnel and the history of their country, a bridge between past and present that keeps the memory alive and teaches the values of courage, sacrifice and patriotism.
Sources and Copyright Italian Army
