On the night between 10 and 11 February 1918, aboard the MAS 94, 95 and 96, the Navy officers Luigi Rizzo, Gabriele D'Annunzio and Costanzo Ciano led a daring raid into the Bay of Buccari, overcoming the enemy defences after having travelled approximately 25 miles between the islands, without being discovered.
Once they reached the designated area, the MAS launched some torpedoes which, however, did not hit the targets due to the protective nets placed to defend the enemy ships.
Despite the absence of material damage, the action had a strong symbolic impact: before retreating, the raiders released into the sea three bottles containing a mocking message written by D'Annunzio himself and addressed to the enemy, with the famous phrase:
“Always ready to dare the undaunted."
The Buccari enterprise increased the myth of Luigi Rizzo, already known for the sinking of the battleship Vienna, and it proved to be an operation with a strong psychological impact, forcing the opposing Navy to strengthen its port defences and review its operational strategies in the Adriatic.
Today, 107 years after that historic feat, the crew of Nave Luigi Rizzo, currently engaged in operational activities, the maritime company recalled.
On the sidelines of the commemoration, the ceremony for the awarding of new ranks to the recently promoted frigate's military personnel took place, in addition to the awarding of honors to those who participated in operational missions or distinguished themselves for meritorious actions in service.
The event, celebrated on board the ship Rizzo, underlines the indissoluble bond between the enterprises of the past and the daily dedication of the men and women of the Navy, who continue to serve the country with the same spirit of audacity and determination.
Ship Luigi Rizzo, a modern European multi-mission frigate, carries on the legacy of those who, with courage, have written pages of our naval history.
