Wednesday 1st June marked the anniversary of the unit's establishment in Cervia, in the presence of Gen.S.A. Barale, Commander of 1st R.A.
“This is our story, which far from the limelight, has been built with acts of daily heroism, on the sea at night or on snow-capped peaks, where and when no one else dared, content upon our return with the sole satisfaction of having brought someone back to their loved ones.” With these words, the Wing Commander, Colonel Ludovico Chianese, concluded the solemn flag-raising ceremony in the presence of the unit's dean, Air Squadron General Nello Barale, Commander of the 1st Air Region of Milan.
The day continued as planned, where guests and attending authorities were able to witness, as part of the normal training activities, a demonstration of the operational capabilities of the equipment and crews. It was possible to appreciate a demonstration of search and rescue activities, with the AB-212 and HH-3F helicopters, conducted in favour of people in mortal danger, as well as the recovery of aircrew personnel lost in hostile territory (Combat Search and Rescue).
The 15th Wing guarantees, with its Maritime Practice Centres/Groups (Rome, Brindisi, Trapani and Cervia), 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the search and rescue of aircrews in distress, also contributing to public utility activities such as the search for missing persons at sea or in the mountains, the urgent medical transport of patients in life-threatening conditions, and the rescue of seriously injured individuals. It also carries out security support missions (Slow Movers Interception) during major events. With its Crew Training Centre (CAE), it trains air and cabin crew personnel of other Armed Forces and State Bodies as well. Since its establishment to the present day, the crews of the 15th Wing have saved approximately 7,000 people in life-threatening situations. ‘Romagna NOI’ - Celebration for the ‘Guardians of the Sky’
