In the Etna town of Paternò, a recognition was presented to Sergeant Major Giuseppe Celestini of the 85th CSAR Center of the 15th Wing and one in memory of Major Pilot Gabriele Orlandi on Saturday, November 24th. On November 24th, the Aeronautica Militare took part in Paternò (CT) in the 10th edition of the Idria national award, a manifestation that rewards everyday heroes, examples united by solidarity towards others, for their altruism and courage; ordinary people who are also ready to sacrifice themselves to fulfill their duty and help their neighbor.
The cultural and social event, conducted by journalist Salvo Fallica and organized by the Pro Loco of Paternò, led by president Salvina Sambataro, in collaboration with national, regional and local institutions, cultural and volunteer associations, took place inside the church of Santa Barbara in the presence of religious, civil and military authorities, including Mayor Nino Naso, many local citizens and students.
AM was present with a representation of personnel, including Colonel Gianluca Chiriatti, Commander of the 41st Anti-Submarine Squadron and of the Sigonella Airport, and Colonel Diego Sismondini, Commander of the 15th Squadron in Cervia.
A video that condensed the soul and history of the Idria award gave way to the presentation of 17 plaques in recognition of the ethical value in daily actions for solidarity, the spirit of humanity and civility, to as many representatives of the Armed Forces, the Fire Brigade, the Guardia di Finanza and ordinary citizens.
The awards that affected the AM were the one awarded to Major Sergeant Giuseppe Celestini, of the 85th CSAR Center (Combat Search and Rescue) of the 15th Stormo, and the one in memory of Major Pilot Gabriele Orlandi, who died in the tragic accident during the air show in Terracina on September 24, 2017.
Moments of strong and heartfelt emotion, with the entire audience standing, in memory of those who sacrificed their lives to fulfill their duty. It was the parents, Monica and Riccardo Orlandi, who presented the award to Gabriele.
The same sentiments were also expressed during the presentation of the Memorial Award to the Firefighters, Giorgio Grammatico and Dario Ambiamonte, who passed away following an explosion in Catania last March while carrying out their duties. To conclude this very emotional phase, the “silence” was played by the “Bersaglieri Fanfara” of Belpasso from Etna.
The event concluded with the laying of laurel wreaths at the feet of the Monument to the City's Fallen Soldiers.
SMC Giuseppe Celestini’s Idria award motivation: “On January 12, 2016, at approximately 12:00, the attention of the SMC Celestini, on board his car, was drawn by a passerby in a state of apparent agitation. The Sub-Lieutenant, approaching the car, quickly got out and noticed a man intent on freeing a small dog from the grip of a large dog, presumably a “pitbull terrier”. The situation was immediately potentially dangerous as the man was losing blood from his head, face and hands and, tied to the leash of his small dog, he was unable to defend himself freely. Given the scene, the Sub-Lieutenant immediately took action, attempting to push the large dog away, hoping that it would let go, but without succeeding in his attempt. After seeing the man fall several times as his leash twisted around his legs, he gathered a stick and tried to dissuade the pitbull. Realizing that this attempt also proved unsuccessful, he reluctantly decided to stand between the unfortunate man and the molosser and to strike him until he let go of his grip. At that point, when it seemed that the situation had returned to normal, and despite the Sub-Lieutenant having ordered the man to return to his property and close the gate, the large dog again attacked the unfortunate man from behind. Upon seeing this, Celestini took the stick back and struck the dog again until he relented. Taking control of the situation, Major Sergeant Celestini asked one of the present to alert 118 and the Carabinieri, while simultaneously providing first aid to the injured man. At that moment, the dog again attacked those present, catching the Sub-Lieutenant by surprise; however, reacting instinctively, he hit the animal and managed to drive it away for good. Meanwhile, an ambulance and a patrol of the Carabinieri arrived at the scene. In the evening, SMC Celestini checked the man’s health condition; he had suffered injuries to his head, cheek, hands, and a broken rib, while the small dog had died as a result of the bites it received.”
Award motivation Idria of Maj. Pil. Gabriele Orlandi: “Young Pilot of the Air Force, Major Gabriele Orlandi, passed away in a plane crash on September 24, 2017, during a flight training exercise. He was in love with his job and the Air Force and dedicated his entire life to his passion for flying. After joining the Air Force Academy in Pozzuoli in 2007, he realized his dream of seeing the golden eagle emblazoned on his uniform, which distinguishes every military pilot. He served with the X fighter squadron of the 36th Flight of Gioia del Colle, where, aboard the Eurofighter jets, he was ready to defend the air space by taking off in flight if necessary to intercept a potential threat in the Italian skies.” Appointed to the 311th Flight Group of the Experimental Flight Department in Pratica di Mare, he was responsible for the flight and ground tests of all the aircraft and flight equipment the Air Force possesses or must acquire. An experienced and prepared pilot. First in his class at the Air Academy. First in his class at the flight school and first among the testers as well. Not only a brave aviator, an authentic interpreter of the principles of the Italian Flag, but also a young man who throughout his life distinguished himself for altruism and generosity towards those in need. A young life cut short in the fulfillment of his duty to the Community and the Fatherland. An example of professionalism, a spirit of sacrifice and a deep respect for the dignity and cultures of every free country. His flight tragically ended in the sea off Terracina during a demonstration when he was aboard the Eurofighter aircraft he was piloting.”
