With the signing of the Decree by the Minister of Defense, Hon. Guido Crosetto, a significant step is taken in recognizing the value and commitment of those who have served Italy in the armed forces. The establishment of the titles "Defense Veteran" and "International Missions Veteran", along with the official celebration of November 11 as Veterans Day, represents a historic turning point for the Italian military world.
A recognition extended to every veteran
One of the most significant innovations of the Decree is the extension of veteran status to those who, although not having suffered disabling physical or psychological traumas, have honorably served the country. This alignment with international regulations allows for the appreciation of the contribution of those who have dedicated their lives to the defense of the Nation, both at home and abroad.
In this regard, Minister Crosetto stated:
"The revision of the Veteran figure, the establishment of the Official Day, and the merit medals represent an important step to ensure proper recognition for all those who have served our country with dedication and honor. It is our duty to give the right value to this figure, which represents a fundamental resource for our Nation".
The Requirements to become a Veteran
The Decree precisely defines the criteria necessary to obtain the recognition of Defense Veteran and International Missions Veteran, establishing a clear path for the recognition of those who have served with dedication in the Armed Forces.
Defense Veteran
To obtain the title of "Defense Veteran", a military member must meet the following requirements:
- Service Seniority: Have served in the Armed Forces for a minimum period of 25 years.
- Service Evaluation: Have achieved an evaluation of no less than "excellent" in the five years preceding the recognition evaluation.
- Disciplinary Conduct: Have not received state disciplinary sanctions nor convictions for non-negligent crimes, unless subject to disciplinary review.
- Exemption for Decorated Personnel: Personnel awarded military valor decorations (such as the Military Order of Italy or the Medal for Valor or Merit of the Armed Forces) are exempt from the 25 years of service requirement.
International Missions Veteran
The title of "International Missions Veteran" is reserved exclusively for those who have already obtained the status of "Defense Veteran". In addition to the above requirements, to obtain this further recognition it is necessary:
- To have participated in at least one international mission officially recognized by the Ministry of Defense.
- To have been employed in operations outside national borders, according to the specifications established by the Chief of Defense Staff.
Only those who meet the criteria for Defense Veteran can access the higher title of International Missions Veteran, thus ensuring that the recognition is awarded to those who have gained concrete operational experience.
November 11: a symbolic date to honor Veterans
The establishment of November 11 as the Official Veterans Day fits into a tradition already established in many other countries, where Veterans Day represents a moment of reflection and gratitude towards those who have served in the military. In Italy too, this day will become an occasion to celebrate the value, courage, and dedication of the armed forces.
The Undersecretary of State for Defense, Hon. Matteo Perego di Cremnago, emphasized the importance of this recognition, highlighting the contribution of veterans to Italy's security and international prestige.
Merit Medals and the Involvement of New Generations
Another innovative element introduced by the Decree concerns the establishment of the Merit Medals for "Defense Veteran" and "International Missions Veteran", a symbol of gratitude that will be awarded to those who have served the country with honor. The design of these medals will be carried out through an idea competition aimed at school students, an initiative that aims to involve new generations in valuing the memory and values of Defense.
In this sense, Minister Crosetto reiterated:
"The example set by the Veterans, the willingness to face every challenge and start anew, must be a reason for the utmost gratitude from everyone".
A concrete commitment for the future
The measure is the result of intense work carried out by the dedicated technical table, led by Undersecretary Perego di Cremnago, with the contribution of Lt. Col. Gianfranco Paglia, Gold Medal for Military Valor, and Hero of the Battle of the Pasta Factory in Somalia. This recognition represents not only an act of justice towards those who have served the country but also a way to strengthen the sense of belonging to the military community and its values.
With this initiative, the Government confirms its attention towards the world of Defense and its protagonists, ensuring that the sacrifice and dedication of veterans are never forgotten.
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