Pride and emotion for the Sassari Brigade. Two Sassari citizens were awarded, today in Bari during the celebration of the 164th anniversary of the Army's constitution, with the Army Bronze Cross of Merit. An award received for what the Brigade accomplished in the recent mission in Lebanon during Operation Leonte XXXVI.

The two soldiers who received the commendation are Massimo Pireddu, a 50-year-old ordinary marshal, native of Macomer, and the 35-year-old selected graduate Enrico Cugusi, originally from Ghilarza .

The first, commander of the explosive ordnance disposal team, was awarded for what he did on November 15, 2024 in Shama after the impact of an artillery shell, when he secured the entire area. "He coordinated the operations of his team - the reasons for the medal explain - managing to remove the explosive device and proceed with its detonation, avoiding further risks for the personnel present at the base".

Cugusi, instead, the team commander employed in the advanced base on the border, intervened following the attack with portable weapons that should have neutralized the communications equipment . “He reacted promptly and effectively - it is recalled - giving timely orders and adopting the necessary actions to preserve the safety of the personnel under his command ”.

Both Sassari citizens are praised as examples of "self-denial and resolute determination" , who have "contributed to bringing further and significant prestige to the Armed Forces and the Italian contingent in the multinational context". Present at the ceremony, in addition to the decorated soldiers and the Undersecretary of Defense Isabella Rauti, were the Chief of Staff of the Defense, General Luciano Portolano, the Chief of Staff of the Army, General of the Army Corps Carmine Masiello, the commander of the "Sassari" Brigade, Major General Stefano Messina, the commander of the 151st Infantry Regiment, Colonel Alessio Argese, and the commander of the 5th Engineer Regiment, Colonel Vito Marra.