The “El Alamein” Square of the Gamerra Barracks in Pisa has once again become the beating heart of Italian military parachuting. In a solemn and emotional setting, the closing ceremony of the 85th Combat Techniques Course for Airborne Troops (CTCA) took place, marking the official entry of 116 young soldiers into the prestigious family of the Paratroopers Brigade “Folgore”.
In the presence of the Brigade Commander, General Dario Paduano, and numerous civil and military authorities, the Initial Service Volunteers (VFI) and the Fixed-Term Volunteers for 4 years (VFP4) were finally able to wear the iconic amaranto beret. A moment made even more significant by the participation of Chief Graduate Stefano La Mattina, Gold Medal for Army Valor, who guided the young soldiers as the course's Patron, embodying the values of courage and dedication inherent to the specialty.
Focus: The Combat Techniques Course for Airborne Troops (CTCA)
The CTCA represents one of the most intense and selective training challenges of the Italian Army. For the students of the 85th course, the path lasted a full fourteen weeks at the CAPAR (Parachuting Training Center), in addition to the twelve weeks of basic training already completed at the Volunteer Training Regiments. During this period, candidates are forged through a rigorous program focused on the specific technical-tactical procedures of airborne troops. The core of the course is acquiring the ability to operate in high-risk contexts, culminating in obtaining the qualification for parachute jumping with the automatic opening technique. It is not just about technique, but a test of psychophysical endurance coordinated by the Training Battalion "Poggio Rusco", aimed at testing the operational readiness of those called to intervene wherever required by the Country.
The "Flame" of Courage and Family Support
During his speech, Colonel Andrea Fiorentini, Commander of CAPAR, emphasized that training is not just a matter of muscles and tactics, but of spirit. He extended a special thanks to the families of the course participants, defining them as the primary source of the inner "flame" that drives these young people to surpass their limits.
"If it is true that the mission of CAPAR is to fuel the flame that is in each of them, it is also true that this flame exists initially, ignited by the sacrifice and example of family affections."
Towards the Operational Future
With the conclusion of the 85th CTCA, a crucial phase now opens for the 116 new paratroopers. They will indeed be transferred to the various Units of the Brigade "Folgore" located throughout the national territory. Here, their training will not stop but will continue with operational refinement and integration into elite units, ready to honor the beret just earned in both national and international contexts.
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