"The important contribution provided to deal with the health emergency has not removed the Arma Azzurra from the duty to fulfill the commitments entrusted to it by the government and Parliament at national and international level and to look at the broader challenges of technology and evolution of the aircraft ".
This was written by the President of the Republic
Sergio Mattarella in a message to the Chief of Staff of the Air Force
, general of the air squad Alberto Rosso, on the occasion of the
98th anniversary of the establishment of the Blue Army
.
Mattarella recalls that "with men and means the Air Force has been employed in supporting Italy's participation in the international peacekeeping missions of the European Union, the United Nations and NATO: from Afghanistan to Lebanon, from Iraq to Kosovo , the Horn of Africa to sub-Saharan Africa, as well as helping to ensure air defense even in Iceland, the Baltic countries, Romania, Albania, Montenegro and Slovenia.
very important contribution to the Atlantic Alliance and the International community, which underlines the solidarity of our country to the indivisible cause of security and peace
".
"Alongside the protection of national airspace, the Air Force has offered, in a particularly difficult scenario due to the prolongation of the pandemic, a very precious contribution through all its articulations From air transport to the return of compatriots and in high bio-containment for the transport of infected people, the transport of medical supplies, vaccines for more distant locations and the islands, the establishment of the reception, storage and sorting center for the same vaccines in Pratica di Mare ".
"The Engineering Department - recalls the Head of State - has created field structures useful to support hospitals and the Experimental Department has distinguished itself with the design, certification and production, with the most modern 3D reproduction systems, of breathing valves from apply to protective masks ".
The Head of State therefore remembers "with affection the tricolor embrace of the national acrobatic team with the engaging overflight of the regional capitals during last year's lockdown" and addresses in his message "a special greeting to the Frecce Tricolori in the year of their 60th anniversary ".
"On this day, the wishes and gratitude of the whole country reach the women and men of all ranks of the Air Force and civilian personnel, employed both in Italy and in operational theaters, and to their families. the Air Force, long live the Armed Forces, long live the Republic! ", he concludes.
"Best wishes to the Italian Air Force which for almost a century has watched over the safety of our skies and guarantees relief and support. Thanks to the women and men of this body which, even in an emergency, serves the country with courage and dedication", affirms the President of the Senate
Elisabetta Alberti Casellati
.
"My heartfelt thanks go to the Air Force, its men and women every day at the service of the country. Your commitment, even in these particularly difficult months for our community, is always precious", said the President of the Chamber.
Roberto Fico
.