Italian Government
"Today we are here to honor the memory of those – both military and civilian – who lost their lives in service to the Fatherland or in their daily functions related to the sea. In remembrance and with gratitude, we unite all Sailors with 'the stars' who fell and went missing during wars or in modern missions, operations aimed at stability and security, alongside the Men and Women of the Sea who passed away while fulfilling their daily duties in that maritime dimension to which our country has always been so deeply and intimately linked" – declared the Undersecretary at the "Marinaio d'Italia" Monument in Brindisi.
In his speech, Perego emphasized the central role the sea plays for Italy:
"Our security, our prosperity, and our very national identity are deeply connected to the sea. For this reason, Defense is engaged in cutting-edge projects like the National Underwater Dimension Hub, as well as initiatives like the Sea Plan, fundamental tools to strengthen the country's competitiveness and safeguard strategic interests in the maritime domain in its entirety. In memory of our fallen" – he concluded – "I renew my personal thanks, and that of the Ministry of Defense, to those who, with professionalism and dedication, continue to make Italy an internationally recognized maritime community of excellence. Long live the Sailors of Italy, long live the Navy, long live Defense, and long live Italy."
