Aquila: 165th Anniversary of the Italian Army

L’Aquila will host, from May 1st to 5th, the events for the 165th anniversary of the Italian Army, in a program that will unite institutions and citizens in the spirit of memory, national identity, and service.

The central moment of the celebrations revolves around May 4th, a date of profound significance for the Italian Army. It is indeed the day that marks its official birth: on May 4th, 1861, following the Unification of Italy, the Sardinian Army assumed the name Italian Army, marking the beginning of the history of the national Armed Force. For this reason, May 4th represents a highly symbolic anniversary, linked to the roots of the institution, its founding values, and the service rendered to the Nation over more than a century and a half.

L’Aquila, a symbolic city for the celebrations

In this context, the choice of L’Aquila assumes a particularly strong significance. A city of history, identity, and rebirth, the capital of Abruzzo has been chosen as the venue for the national celebrations of the 165th anniversary, becoming for five days the heart of an event that aims to bring the Army closer to the citizens and enhance the deep relationship between the Armed Forces and the territory.

The Chief of Staff of the Army, General of the Army Corps Carmine Masiello, meeting with the mayor of L’Aquila Pierluigi Biondi, highlighted this very bond, emphasizing the human and institutional value of the event. L’Aquila, he recalled, is a city that has managed to rise again, preserving the memory of the past but looking with determination to the future. An example that closely recalls the principles that inspire the Army: discipline, sacrifice, sense of duty, love for the Homeland, responsibility, and dedication to the national community.

Events from May 1st to 5th and the connection with the city

From May 1st to 5th, the program includes a series of events designed to involve the population. Among these, the opening of the “Army Village” will offer citizens the opportunity to get to know up close the men and women in uniform, their daily work, the experiences gained in the field, and the human dimension that accompanies their daily operations in service of the Country.

The celebrations will culminate on May 5th, in Piazza Duomo, with the concluding military ceremony dedicated to the 165 years of history of the Italian Army. But the deeper meaning of the entire event remains tied precisely to May 4th, the founding date that represents the historical and symbolic heart of the anniversary.

The mayor Pierluigi Biondi spoke of a great honor for the city, recalling the special relationship between L’Aquila and the military presence, particularly with the 9th Alpini Regiment, part of the Alpine Brigade “Taurinense”. A concrete bond, which is renewed also through the training activities carried out at the “Pasquali” barracks, where every year young people from all over Italy come to embark on their path in the Armed Forces.

The national Army celebration in L’Aquila thus presents itself not only as an institutional celebration but also as an opportunity to strengthen the bond between the community and the military, enhancing the daily contribution of the Armed Forces in the fields of security, health, rescue, and logistical support.