Pope Francis has officially sanctioned the beatification of Salvo D’Acquisto, the Italian carabiniere celebrated for his bravery during World War II, who sacrificed himself to save civilians from Nazi execution. While currently recovering from pneumonia at the Gemelli Hospital, the Pope authorized the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints to issue decrees affirming the recognition of D’Acquisto’s acts of heroism.
Born on October 15, 1920, in Naples, Salvo D’Acquisto grew up as the eldest of a modest family, instilled with strong Christian values. At the young age of fifteen, he left school to work in his uncle's workshop before joining the Carabinieri at eighteen, enrolling at the Carabinieri School of Rome. His military service began at the General Commissariat for War Fabrications, leading to deployment in Libya from November 1940 until September 1942 during Italy's involvement in World War II.
Despite the turmoil around him, D’Acquisto was known for his moral integrity and devotion, often making the sign of the cross and reciting the Rosary even before his peers. After returning to Italy, he became Deputy Brigadier at the Carabinieri Station of Torrimpietra. The day after Italy’s armistice on September 8, 1943, the country faced upheaval as the Nazi army occupied Central and Northern Italy, resulting in chaos and violence.
On September 22, D’Acquisto encountered dire circumstances when some German soldiers, suspecting sabotage during their operations, arrested him after a tragic explosion at the Tower of Palidoro. The explosion was caused by the careless handling of explosives by the German soldiers themselves but led to the arrest of D’Acquisto, who was interrogated about the incident.
To prevent retaliatory execution, the Nazis took 22 local men hostage. According to reports issued by the Vatican, D’Acquisto courageously declared himself responsible for the explosion, offering his life for the release of the hostages. His selfless act of sacrifice took place on September 23, 1943, when he was executed by firing squad, allowing all 22 hostages to be freed. This remarkable act of heroism officially designated him as one of Italy's WWII martyrs.
Following his death, D’Acquisto was posthumously awarded the Gold Medal for Military Valor by the Italian military on February 15, 1945, recognizing his extraordinary courage. His story has remained deeply etched within the collective memory of Italy, symbolizing courage and dedication to duty.
The process of beatification, which is necessary to canonize individuals as saints, requires recognizing miracles attributed to them, or, if deemed martyrs, can lead to immediate beatification. D’Acquisto's enlistment for beatification is regarded as significant, as it draws attention to the virtues of self-sacrifice and moral conviction during one of history's most tumultuous periods.
Pope Francis’ decision to advance this cause, announced following his audience with Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Monsignor Edgar Peña Parra, reflects not only the Papal leadership during challenging times but also the current conditions under which the Church operates amid the pandemic and social strife. Although recovering, the Pope's ability to delegate such important matters reflects his commitment to pastoral duties.
Giorgia Meloni, the President of the Italian Council, expressed her enthusiasm for the Pope’s decision, stating, 'Salvo D’Acquisto is a hero, symbolizing courage, sacrifice, and dedication to duty. The decision by the Holy Father to authorize the process of his beatification is extraordinary recognition for one who gave his life for others, embodying the highest values of humanity and service.' Meloni's tribute emphasizes the historical and moral significance of D'Acquisto’s legacy.
With the beatification now moving forward, it serves to inspire future generations about the power of individual sacrifice and the potential for heroism amid adversity. The drive for D’Acquisto’s canonization continues as the Catholic Church evaluates any miracles attributed to his intercession. This sacred process intertwines faith and history, reviving stories of valor and piety for contemporary audiences.
Salvo D’Acquisto’s future beati-status not only honors him but also reinforces the spirit of resilience and humanity found throughout Italian—indeed, global—history, where countless individuals have stood bravely against tyranny and injustice. While awaiting the recognition of the miracles signifying his intercession, the narrative encapsulates the pursuit of faith’s enduring engagement with the present.