November 9, 1971 marks a tragic chapter in the history of the 187th Parachute Regiment “Folgore”. A British military aircraft Hercules C-130, with 46 paratroopers and 6 crew members of the Royal Air Force on board, crashed in the sea area of Secche della Meloria, near Livorno. The aircraft had taken off from the San Giusto airport in Pisa, bound for Sardinia for an airdrop operation as part of the international exercise “Cold Stream”.
The commemoration was attended by the victims' families, along with representatives of the city’s civil and military authorities. The event began at the Cigna cemetery with the laying of a laurel wreath at the monument dedicated to the Fallen of the “Gesso 4” flight. Subsequently, a Holy Mass was celebrated at the Cathedral of Livorno.
The ceremony concluded with the laying of a laurel wreath at the War Memorial of Meloria in Banditella and a further tribute at sea, at the exact spot where the plane sank.
During the event, Brigadier General Federico Bernacca, Commander of the “Folgore” Brigade, expressed heartfelt thanks to the families of the fallen. He emphasized how the memory of these men continues to represent an element of unity for the paratroopers. Colonel Vincenzo Pinto, Commander of the 187th Regiment, also wanted to thank those present, including the relatives of the British victims. He highlighted that the sacrifice of the paratroopers remains a source of inspiration for the values of the regiment. This commemoration not only celebrates the courage and sacrifice of the fallen, but also serves as a reminder to future generations. Historical memory plays a fundamental role in keeping alive the awareness of the duty and value of military service.
Trump’s Tariff Plans: A Day-One Agenda Against Drug and Human Trafficking In a bold move to combat drug and human smuggling, President-elect Donald Trump has announced plans to impose significant tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China immediately after his inauguration on January 20.
Government Unveils “Get Britain Working” Initiative to Combat Unemployment In a bid to rejuvenate the UK job market, the government has introduced its ambitious “Get Britain Working” initiative, promising extensive reforms aimed at reducing the benefits bill and increasing employment.