"The inauguration of the academic year of the Carabinieri Officers' School is an important and significant moment, as well as solemn, in the life of the Force. Starting from your general commander, to each of you officers down to the youngest Carabinieri, you have chosen to wear a uniform that makes you recognizable among a thousand and to wear it with dignity and pride, coherence and a spirit of sacrifice. In a world where everyone 'wants' more, you have decided to 'be' more.
You have chosen, in the wake of your great heroes of the past, whose memory is alive in each of you (including the patriotic Carabinieri of the Risorgimento, Salvo d'Acquisto, the martyrs of Fiesole, General Carlo Alberto Dalla Chiesa), to put the defense of the Fatherland, of its values, of its Constitution, the defense of citizens and the good of the community, above any personal interest, of party or faction, of profit or simple human selfishness.
You have begun, not only for the start of the academic year, but for your very life choice - an indelible choice - a path of great commitment, difficulty, sacrifice, satisfaction, responsibility and honor, within the Carabinieri. A cornerstone institution of national security, a pillar of stability and legality for the country and a safe beacon for our military abroad. A security force and at the same time an Armed Force, an inseparable pair in you. Wearing the uniform of the Benemerita is an honor and a burden for you: it represents a familiar and friendly presence in the history of Italy. A recognized symbol of protection, help and support, both at home and abroad.
Thanks on behalf of myself and the Defense to your commander general Salvatore Luongo and to the president of the council Giorgia Meloni, whose presence today once again demonstrates the attention and support of the Government to the Arma and the Armed Forces".
Thus the Minister of Defense, Guido Crosetto, for the inauguration of the Academic Year of the Carabinieri Officers School.
