"I symbolically address, through the ship crew Fasan, my wish for the upcoming festivities to all the women and men of the armed forces, with particular reference to those who are engaged in operations, both abroad and on the national territory. "Thus the Chief of Defense General, General Claudio Graziano, who today spent, together with the Minister of Defense Roberta Pinotti, a few hours aboard the naval unit that exercises the command of "Mare Sicuro", an operation in progress since March 2015 in the southern Mediterranean to protect national interests through the presence and maritime surveillance as well as with the activity of contrasting criminal organizations involved in illegal trafficking.
General Graziano thanked Minister Pinotti for his presence on board, "a tangible sign of the government's and the country's closeness to the armed forces" and underlined that "we are experiencing an extraordinarily demanding period for international crisis scenarios and, above all, for the subtle terrorist threat and this will force many of you, women and men of the armed forces, to spend the holidays in operations, away from your homes and your family affections ".
"These days of celebration - continued the Chief of Staff of the Defense - will be for you characterized by the true spirit of service to the community: to watch over to allow others to clear up and live these moments in peace". "The country, I am sure, addresses you with gratitude and gratitude for the sacrifice and commitment you are facing," concluded General Graziano.
On board of Fasan ship also the Chief of the Navy, team admiral Valter Girardelli, the inter-chief operating commander, team admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, the commander in chief of the naval squad, team admiral Donato Marzano, and the commander of the operation "Safe Sea", rear-admiral Enrico Pacioni.
