The traditional flag-raising ceremony and the laying of the laurel wreath at the War Memorial took place this morning in Piazza Unione Europea in front of Palazzo Zanca, on the occasion of National Unity and Armed Forces Day. The wreath was laid by the Prefect of Messina, Cosima Di Stani, accompanied by the Interregional Carabinieri Commander “Culqualber”, Army Corps General Claudio Domizi, and by the Mayor of Messina, Federico Basile.
The ceremony was attended by the Police Commissioner, the Deputy Mayor with responsibility for relations with the Armed Forces Salvatore Mondello, the highest civil, military and religious authorities, representatives of the Armed Forces, the State Armed Corps, the combat and arms associations and the Italian Red Cross. Also present were the Banner of the City of Messina, decorated with three Gold Medals for Military Valour, that of the Metropolitan City, the Medal of the Blue Ribbon, Banners and Banners of the combat and arms associations and a representation of students.
Mayor Basile’s message: “Today we pay homage to all the women and men who fought and sacrificed their lives to defend the freedom, unity and independence of Italy. Their example constitutes a precious heritage of our collective memory and our national identity. At the same time, our thoughts go to those who, still today, wear the uniform with dedication and courage, working daily to guarantee safety, legality and protection of republican values. Our most sincere gratitude goes to them. Happy Holidays of National Unity and the Armed Forces to all”.
Previously, the offensive writings that appeared in recent hours on the War Memorial, created by unknown persons, were promptly removed.