Undersecretary Alfano, speaking on behalf of the Minister of Defense, Roberta Pinotti, retraced the stages of the creation of the Italian Air Force, stressing that this year the 25 anniversary of the participation of theBlue Weapon to the international "Desert Storm" operation for the liberation of Kuwait, in which Italy intervened with 10 aircraft Tornado.
"Aircraft considered too expensive at the time" said the undersecretary who then added that 40 years later it was able to guarantee efficiency and effectiveness in all contexts of use, from the skies of the Balkans, to the Middle East and North Africa.
"Four aircraft of this class - he added - are currently engaged in the fight against ISIS, carrying out an activity, that of intelligence".
In conclusion, the undersecretary addressed the women and men of the Italian Air Force: "Be proud to belong to the Blue Army and continue to work together for the good of the country, which is so honorably represented. Italians trust in you, in your determination to pursue the collective good and in your loyalty to constitutional values ".
Subsequently, the president of the republic awarded various honors to the personnel of the armed force who have distinguished themselves in the course of national and international operations, in emergency situations and in support of populations in difficulty.
The silver medals for aeronautical value were also awarded to the 9 ° Stormo of Grazzanise, to the 17 ° Stormo Incursori of Furbara, to the 16 ° Stormo of Martina Franca, to the 14 ° Stormo of Pratica di Mare, to the 15 ° Stormo of Cervia , to the 46 ^ Air Brigade of Pisa.
The leaders of the armed forces, civil, military and religious authorities took part in the ceremony.
