One hundred and sixty-five voices, a single "I swear!" This was the most moving moment of the ceremony yesterday morning, held in Piazzale Avegno at the Navy Petty Officers' School, marking a milestone in the journey of the young initial-term volunteers of the 14th course, the second induction for 2026. The collective oath followed the reading of the formula by the commander of the Petty Officers' School and the military garrison, Captain Francesco Maffiola. Hundreds of family members from various regions of Italy shared in this important event: parents, girlfriends, boyfriends, brothers, and sisters, all key figures in a day marked by the emotion and solemnity of the military rite. Of the 165 students, 40 are women. One hundred and two are assigned to the Port Authorities-Coast Guard, while 63 belong to the Maritime Military Crew Corps. The course, which began on August 31, will continue with specialized training for the various categories.
The ceremony was attended by Admiral Stefano Barbieri, commander of the Navy Schools; Admiral Enrico Pacioni, commander of the Western autonomous maritime division; Andrea Vaiardi, maritime director of Northern Sardinia; and Carla Di Quattro, prefect of Sassari. Also in attendance were Fabio Lai, mayor of La Maddalena; Gianna Masu, mayor of Tempio; Dario Campesi, representative of the Municipality of Palau; and civil, military, and religious authorities.
The Livorno Naval Academy band accompanied the ceremony, after performing a concert the previous evening in the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, followed by a retreat to the barracks. Yesterday's swearing-in ceremony was the penultimate one of the year at the Livorno Petty Officers' School. The next one is scheduled for December.
