On Monday, December 15, as is tradition near the anniversary of Our Lady of Loreto, the evocative Sala della Madonna di Loreto hosted the ceremony for the awarding of the study prizes of the’ONFA (National Opera for the Children of Aviators). An event that this year has taken on even greater significance thanks to the elevation of the merit criteria, making the recognition a true seal of excellence.
I am 56 boys Throughout the national territory, students who have distinguished themselves for exceptional results in secondary, higher and university studies have been selected. Representing all the award winners from Italy — who will receive their awards at their respective territorial command — were the 12 students residing in Lazio who were the protagonists of the Capitolian ceremony.
The event, chaired by Chief of Staff of the Air Force, Gen. S.A. Antonio Conserva, was conducted by the journalist Claudia Conte and accompanied by the solemn notes of the Italian Air Force Band.
The President of ONFA, General Chief Inspector Basilio Di Martino, He recalled the Opera’s historical roots, citing the intuition of Italo Balbo: “ONFA is the expression of the innate chivalry of the people of the air, united in a single family.”
A bond that today translates into concrete solidarity: the 70 percent of the staff on duty He voluntarily contributes every month to the support of the Foundation. Addressing the young people, General Di Martino encouraged them with a quote from Mark Twain: “Twenty years from now you won’t regret what you did, but what you didn’t do. Leave the docks behind, explore, dream”.
Moments of deep emotion were experienced during the interviews with two of the young awardees. Proud of their identity, the boys expressed their desire to honor the memory of their fathers by donning the “starlets” one day, to serve the homeland with the same dedication.
A chiusura dell’evento, il General S.A. Antonio Conserva he addressed a message of confidence to the new generations: «You are a pride not only for the Air Force and ONFA, but for all of Italy. Wherever you go, you will carry our values with you, contributing to the growth of the country. Stay connected to our Flag; we trust in your strength and your will.».
The National Organization for the Children of Aviators is a public institution that has the mission of supporting the moral, cultural, and physical growth of the orphans of the Air Force personnel. Without state contributions, ONFA lives and operates thanks to the generosity and spirit of the Armed Forces, ensuring that no economic obstacle hinders the talent and future of its beneficiaries.
