Mayor Federico Basile this morning delivered a certificate of Solemn Commendation to the young man from Messina, corporal of the Completion Forces, Emanuele Castrianni, for having distinguished himself as a witness of international solidarity and profound respect for human dignity, thanks to his humanitarian mission in Ukraine. First lieutenant Antonio Villani also took part in the ceremony, representing the Military Department of Forensic Medicine of Messina, who accompanied Castrianni on this significant occasion.
During the cordial meeting at Palazzo Zanca, Mayor Basile had the opportunity to dialogue with Castrianni and listen to his direct testimonies on the experience lived in the territories affected by the conflict. During the ceremony, the mayor read the certificate, bearing the official mention: “With great honor and profound gratitude, the Municipality of Messina confers this Solemn Commendation to fellow citizen Corporal Emanuele Castrianni for the exceptional spirit of solidarity and profound sense of humanity demonstrated in providing concrete help to the Ukrainian population. Through repeated volunteer missions, he brought medicines and basic necessities in a context of extreme difficulty, offering support and hope to those in conditions of great suffering. His example of altruism and dedication represents a source of pride for the entire community of Messina and embodies the highest values of fraternity and civil commitment. With esteem and gratitude, on behalf of the municipal administration and all citizens, I express my most sincere appreciation for his noble work”.
During the ceremony, Mayor Basile defined Castrianni as an exemplary citizen and shining interpreter of the highest ideals of the Republic, whose life and conduct embody the values of solidarity, courage, altruism and civic commitment. With unparalleled determination and a spirit of self-sacrifice, the young corporal chose to work, together with the Orthodox Community of Messina, tirelessly for the good of others, going to Ukraine, a land tormented by war, to bring humanitarian aid to the affected populations. In conditions of grave danger, it offered comfort, essential goods and hope, rescuing over forty people and demonstrating a profound sense of international solidarity. His commitment, however, is not limited to the international context: even in Messina, Castrianni has for years been engaged in volunteering activities with numerous local associations, dedicating time, energy and resources to supporting the most fragile and marginalized people. His action, discreet but constant, represents a concrete example of humanity, empathy and brotherhood, and makes him a model of active citizenship and a point of reference for those who believe in the value of the common good and in the construction of a more just and supportive community. For these reasons, the Municipality of Messina wanted to pay homage to his work, awarding a Solemn Commendation which recognizes his nobility of soul, extraordinary dedication to others and the high moral value of his actions.