Washington, DC (November 8, 2023) – The celebrations of Italy’s Armed Forces and National Unity Day in the United States concluded in Washington with a reception at the Italian Embassy hosted by Ambassador Zappia. The event was attended by Kristyn E. Jones, Acting Under Secretary of the U.S. Air Force, and Defense Attaché Maj. Gen. ITAF Maurizio Cantiello.
High-ranking officials from the Pentagon, the Department of State, and other U.S. authorities, as well as representatives from the diplomatic corps and military attachés in Washington, attended the reception.
Ambassador Zappia, in recalling the message of the Italian head of state for November 4th, highlighted the historical origin and significance of the occasion. She emphasized the alliance between Italy and the United States, allies in the Great War, as a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship, as reaffirmed by Prime Minister Meloni and President Biden in July in Washington.
Against the backdrop of the ongoing war sparked by the brutal Russian invasion in Ukraine and the conflict in the Middle East following Hamas’s heinous terrorist attack against Israel, the Ambassador noted the increased relevance of the alliance between Italy and the United States. She stressed their shared responsibility to promote peace and security, particularly in areas where the need is most felt. Referencing the Prime Minister’s communications to the chambers before the last European Council, the Ambassador highlighted Italy’s strong support for Ukraine.
Emphasizing the commitment of the Italian armed forces to NATO, UN, and EU missions worldwide, Ambassador Zappia focused on the Italian contingent in UNIFIL in Lebanon and mentioned that November 12th marks the twentieth anniversary of the Nasiriyah Massacre. She also mentioned the recent U.S. invitation for Italy to join the Combined Space Operations Center (CSpOC) for space security. The Ambassador highlighted bilateral collaboration in the defense industry, noting its increasing focus on investments in emerging technologies and innovation in both directions.
Acting Under Secretary Jones highlighted that in the battle between democracies and autocracies, the United States, Italy, and their allies choose to stand for peace, freedom, and security. She praised Italy’s leadership in Europe, emphasizing shared values as the foundation of the strong partnership between Italy and the United States. Jones mentioned the joint commitment to support Ukrainian efforts against Russian aggression, acknowledging Italy’s vital role in the reconstruction of the Ukrainian economy and infrastructure destroyed by Russia. She congratulated Italy for staying true to its commitment to being a strong ally for the United States, citing Italy as a dedicated NATO ally and an example of military contingent partnership.
General Cantiello underscored that the celebrations for Armed Forces and National Unity Day provide an opportunity to celebrate the special bond between the two nations, built on common values and deep trust.
The General announced the conferment, immediately following by Ambassador Zappia, of honors to five officers distinguished for their collaboration with Italy in defense.
Admiral Michael M. Gilday was awarded the Grand Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic. Dr. Keith B. Webster received the Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic. Captain Scott Bunnay and Colonel Phillip R. Cuccia were awarded the Knight of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, and General Philippe Lavigne, Supreme Allied Commander Transformation of NATO, received a Silver Aeronautical Merit Medal.
On the same day, the Embassy hosted the traditional flag-raising ceremony, after which Ambassador Zappia laid a wreath in memory of the Unknown Soldier at the Arlington Memorial.
