At the military complex “Ten. M.O.V.M. Dario Vitali” in San Piero a Grado (Pisa), the ceremony for the change of command at the Army Special Forces Command (COMFOSE) took place in recent days. A moment of solemnity and reflection that saw the handover between Brigadier General Marco Manzone and his peer Brigadier General Carmine Vizzuso, in the presence of numerous civil and military authorities, both Italian and foreign. Presiding over the ceremony was Corps General Salvatore Cuoci, Deputy Commander and Operational Commander of the Land Operational Forces Command (COMFOTER).

COMFOSE represents a strategic hub within the Italian Army, with its role in coordinating and developing the operational and training capabilities of the Special Forces sector. It ensures coherence in training programs, preparation, and innovation of procedures, providing essential support to units operating in the most complex and confidential missions.
The farewell of Brigadier General Marco Manzone: values, dedication, and results
In his farewell speech, Brigadier General Marco Manzone paid tribute to the personnel of the sector who lost their lives in service, remembering their sacrifice as a moral guide for all Special Forces operators. “Those who have gone ahead — he said — show us the right path and inspire us every day in the most authentic values of our being military.”

Brigadier General Marco Manzone then recalled the words spoken at the beginning of his mandate, focused on the concepts of “doing”, “knowing how to do”, and “wanting to do”. He proudly emphasized how these principles have been internalized by all the Command personnel, transforming into concrete results in terms of efficiency, training, and operational readiness. He warmly thanked the men and women of the sector, highlighting the level of cohesion and dedication that characterizes COMFOSE.
In conclusion, he extended a sincere wish to Brig. Gen. Carmine Vizzuso for his future in command: “A prestigious assignment, in a highly dynamic and professional environment, looking confidently towards a future rich in opportunities and responsibilities.”
The challenges of the future: the words of Gen. Vizzuso and Gen. Cuoci
The new Commander, Brig. Gen. Carmine Vizzuso, then took the floor, thanking those present and his predecessor for the commitment shown. In his speech, he emphasized the crucial role that the Special Forces sector plays today within the new international scenario, increasingly complex and interconnected.

“Technologies advance, scenarios change, but the human element remains central — declared Vizzuso —. Constant training, adaptability, and determination remain decisive factors in the success of our missions.”
The ceremony concluded with the speech of Gen. C.A. Salvatore Cuoci, who expressed gratitude towards all the operators of the sector, remembering the fallen and wounded who, with courage and dedication, have served the Homeland. A special thought was also directed to Gen. Nicola Zanelli, the first Commander of COMFOSE, who recently passed away.
In his final farewell, Gen. C.A. Cuoci wished the best to both the outgoing and the new commander, emphasizing how the value of the Special Forces lies not only in their operational capabilities but also in the profound humanity and spirit of service that distinguish them.
Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!