«On the Day of Remembrance of the Military and Civilian Fallen in International Peace Missions, the Government pays a dutiful and grateful homage to all compatriots who sacrificed their lives in the operational theaters where Italy is committed to defending freedom, peace and security. November 12, 2003 is a day that will remain engraved forever in the national memory."
Thus the Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, on the twentieth anniversary of the Nasiriyah attack. Among the victims also Silvio Olla, non-commissioned officer from Sant'Antioco of the 151st Regiment of the Sassari Brigade. He was 32 years old.
«The Italian people», underlines Meloni, «will never forget what happened in Nasiriyah twenty years ago, the most serious terrorist attack suffered by Italy in international peacekeeping missions in crisis areas. The images of that dramatic day and the profound emotion that the attack aroused throughout the nation are still vivid in our minds, which did not fail to give the heroes of Nasiriyah a very strong feeling of affection and gratitude."
«The memory of the fallen - adds the Prime Minister - is a duty especially towards the younger generations, so that through memory they can know and admire the example of those who gave their lives to build peace. Today's anniversary is an opportunity to express, once again, the pride that the Government feels towards the men and women, the Armed Forces and civilian personnel, engaged in peacekeeping missions and who with their commitment , their dedication and professionalism honor the Tricolore every day."
Meloni also looks to the present day: « The Government pays particular attention to its compatriots who serve in the most complex theaters and who, in light of recent events on the international level, have to face extremely critical situations which involve the hiring of large risks and responsibilities", he concludes.
(Unioneonline)
