The ceremony, presided over by the wing commander, Col. Garettini, was attended by a large representation of local religious and civilian authorities. Colonel Pilot Enrico Garettini, Commander of the 51st Wing and the Treviso Air Force Garrison, presided over the event, which was attended by the city's Prefect, Dr. Aldo Adinolfi, the Deputy Mayor Dr. Giancarlo Gentilini, the Mayor of Istrana (TV), Ing. Enzo Fiorin, and other religious, political, and military authorities from the Treviso area. The day began with the solemn flag-raising ceremony, immediately followed by the laying of a laurel wreath in memory of the fallen of all wars. Subsequently, in the square in front of the Force Protection Group, a “marker” depicting the effigy of the Blessed Virgin of Loreto was inaugurated, entirely made by personnel of the 51st Wing and the 3rd R.M.V., and received the solemn blessing from H.E. Most Reverend Mons. Paolo Magnani, Bishop Emeritus of the city of Treviso. The key event of the day was the celebration of Holy Mass officiated by H.E. Most Rev. Mons. Paolo Magnani in the hangar of the Aircraft Efficiency Group. The high prelate, during his homily, consistently pointed to the figure of the Blessed Virgin Lauretana as a true “a reference point for those within our Armed Forces who work to safeguard free institutions and support peacekeeping operations”At the ceremony, two scholarships were awarded by the ONFA to two particularly deserving students, children of personnel who died in service, and several commendations were given to officers and non-commissioned officers who distinguished themselves during Operation ISAF.
