Celebrated at the Salento Detachment, the 92nd Anniversary of the proclamation of the Blessed Virgin of Loreto as Patron Saint of the “men and women in blue”. The celebration, which began with the solemn Flag-raising ceremony, continued with the reading of the congratulatory message from the Chief of Staff of the Italian Air Force and the presentation of the diplomas conferring the Cross for Length of Service, the Commemorative Cross for participation in military peace missions in Kosovo, and the Certificates of Public Recognition awarded by the Department of Civil Protection for the support provided during the “Campania Waste 2008” and “Abruzzo Earthquake 2009” events. Subsequently, Colonel Andrea Aiello, Commander of the Detachment, laid a floral tribute at the monument dedicated to the Blessed Virgin of Loreto. This was followed by the solemn Eucharistic liturgy officiated by His Excellency the Archbishop of Brindisi-Ostuni, Monsignor Rocco Talucci, assisted by the Military Chaplain of the Navy's Amphibious Forces, Don Marcello Calefati, and by Don Gaetano Barbera, which, in addition to the men and women in blue, was attended by the Prefect of Brindisi, Dr Nicola Prete, the highest city authorities and, with their standards, a representation of the Brindisi Section of the ’MOVM Lieutenant Leonardo Ferrulli“ Air Force Association.
Furthermore, a representation of retired personnel was present, as tangible proof of the special bond that unites the Virgin of Loreto with the men and women who, yesterday as today, have worn the uniform of the Italian Air Force.
