In Livorno, at the historic Villa Ruspoli, the solemn handover ceremony of the Non-Commissioned Officer of the Folgore Paratroopers Brigade took place. In the presence of the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Federico Bernacca, 1st Warrant Officer Alessandro Pellegrino handed over the position to 1st Warrant Officer Quirino D'Amico, the new Non-Commissioned Officer, after more than four years of service in this significant role.
This event not only celebrates the handover but also represents a moment of reflection on the importance of the role of the Non-Commissioned Officer within the Brigade, which is fundamental for maintaining discipline and cohesion among the personnel.
The Non-Commissioned Officer is a point of reference for all military personnel, and their role is essential to support the leadership of the Commander. In a military context, where operations may require quick and critical decisions, the NCO must ensure that every man and woman in the unit feels supported and motivated.
The Role of the Non-Commissioned Officer
1st Warrant Officer Quirino D'Amico, the new Non-Commissioned Officer of the Folgore, brings with him extensive experience and expertise. His long career is a testament to dedication and commitment to service, and he has demonstrated, throughout his military career, excellent leadership skills that will be crucial in facing the future challenges of the Brigade.
This figure is chosen directly by the Commanders for their character, human, and professional qualities.
The NCO plays a crucial role in keeping the esprit de corps alive, ensuring the well-being and morale of the personnel, and overseeing the disciplinary aspects of the unit.
Within the units, they facilitate the integration of newly assigned personnel, strengthen ties with those who have been transferred, and support the families of the fallen and wounded, as well as actively intervene in managing any traumatic events that may affect the organization. Their duties also extend to planning and organizing activities that promote the psychological well-being of the military, such as sports and cultural events, which are fundamental for group cohesion.
The Profile of the New Non-Commissioned Officer: 1st Warrant Officer Quirino D'Amico
Born on July 5, 1973, in Bari, 1st Warrant Officer Quirino D'Amico embarked on a military career on March 2, 1992, attending the 72nd A.S. Course at the Non-Commissioned Officers School of Viterbo. After completing the specialization course at the Infantry School of Cesano di Roma in 1993, he was assigned to the 187th Folgore Paratroopers Regiment in 1994, holding a wide range of command and operational positions:
- Team and platoon commander of paratrooper riflemen;
- Deputy adjutant major;
- Assistant and officer in the Training Office;
- Company sergeant major;
- Liaison officer in Afghanistan;
- Chief clerk in Iraq.
Operational Missions
1st Warrant Officer 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 operations "Strade Sicure" in Florence (2016-2017) and in Rome (2020-2021).
Courses and Specializations
His professional profile is enriched by a long series of courses and specializations, including:
- Military parachuting licenses from Italy, Germany, the USA, and Japan;
- Ardimento course;
- Military shooting instructor and sniper;
- Freefall parachuting;
- Expert Infantryman Course;
- Automatic opening jumpmaster;
- Intelligence Orientation Course;
- Urban combat and parachuting instructor.
Honors and Awards
1st Warrant Officer D'Amico's career has been recognized 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 honors and awards received by 1st Warrant Officer D'Amico are a recognition of his commitment and skills. Personal achievements that contribute to the prestige of the Folgore Brigade and inspire other military personnel to pursue excellence.
We extend our best wishes to 1st Warrant Officer Quirino D'Amico for this prestigious achievement! Folgore!
Source: Italian Army
Comments (1)