On the morning of the Day of Remembrance, Chieti witnessed heartfelt attendance and engagement at the ceremony organized by the National Association of Carabinieri (ANC), led by President Mario Colantonio. The event took place at the "Monumento al Carabiniere" on Via Ricciardi, bringing together active members and honored guests.
The ceremony commenced with the participation of students from the fourth classes of the Comprehensive 3 school on Via Pescara, who had gathered with their teachers. They welcomed attendees with the first notes of the “Canto degli Italiani,” engagingly setting the tone for the event. Among those present were the provincial commander of Chieti’s carabinieri, Colonel Cosimo Damiano Di Caro, Captain Davide De Finis, the commander of the carabinieri's Nor unit, and Lieutenant Roberto Verzulli, commander of the Chieti Scalo carabinieri station.
President Colantonio addressed the crowd, providing a brief overview of the tragic events between 1943 and 1947, which involved the deaths of thousands of Italians and carabinieri during the turmoil linked to the historical territories of Venezia Giulia, Istria, and Dalmatia. The grief-filled narrative recounted not only lost lives but the suffering endured by civilians tragically affected by the acts of violence, including the infamous Foibe massacres.
Colonel Di Caro focused on the essence of remembrance, emphasizing how important it is to honor the duty-bound victims, especially at locations of significant symbolic meaning. His remarks encouraged the presence of youth, whose participation is pivotal for fostering peace and respect for values within the Italian society moving forward.
During the ceremony, Colonel Di Caro participated in laying down a wreath, accompanied by somber musical interludes from Maestro Marco Vignali, who performed “Il Silenzio,” followed by the poignant “Preghiera del Carabiniere,” recited by the ANC’s vice president, Lieutenant Giuseppe La Rovere.
Once formalities concluded, President Colantonio and the ANC members engaged with the youth present, answering numerous insightful queries from the students. This interaction highlighted the timeless commitment to keep the memory of Foibe victims alive, which stems not only from duty but from the heart and soul of the carabinieri who dedicated their lives to serve Italy.
Another ceremony was also observed at Largo Martiri delle Foibe, where local authorities gathered to echo similar sentiments of remembrance and recognition. The dual events manifested Chieti's deep respect and dedication to honoring the past and ensuring future generations understand this chapter of history.
With each passing year, these commemorations aim to instill the lessons learned from history and to celebrate the courage shown by those who protected the ideals of freedom and justice, and to embrace the hope of peace as the nation continues to heal.