Two Sisters, One Mission

CAMP DARBY, ITALY — Hailing from a small town in Tuscany, Italy, two sisters have made a lifelong profession in support of the United States Army. For decades, Rita and Chiara Maccanti have been a driving force at Camp Darby, ensuring the 839th Transportation Battalion, 598th Transportation Brigade, United States Army Transportation Command, remains ready for any mission.

Rita Maccanti, a general supply specialist (S4), has served the U.S. Army for the past 30 years, dedicating the last 24 years specifically to the 839th.

“Logistics is very important for mission support. Equipment distribution, safety gear purchases, and property accountability are the focus of logistics.” said Rita. “I am honored to work for the 839th because I feel a great sense of family. It’s my home away from home.”

Drawn to the fast-paced problem solving of logistics, Rita set her sights on ensuring the battalion's Soldiers and equipment are always mission ready.

Choosing a different route, her sister Chiara Maccanti, an administrative support assistant (S1), has served the U.S. Army for the past five years supporting our people. She has spent the past two years with the 839th.

“I love to take care of people inside and outside of work so that our employees can focus on the mission,” said Chiara. “I am grateful I get to work in the 839th with my sister as well because we are a great team and both want the best for the battalion.”

Between the two sisters, they represent the core of the support required for the battalion to properly function. Chiara takes care of the personnel, while Rita takes care of the equipment. Despite walking different career paths, they share a singular goal: to serve with pride and continue building a foundation of discipline, resilience, and shared purpose. Their service highlights the significant contributions of the local national workforce within the 839th, serving throughout Italy, Greece, and Turkey.

Beyond their daily S1 and S4 duties, the sisters provide something arguably more important: vital continuity. As local national employees, they act as cultural ambassadors, bridging the gap between the Americans and the local Italian community.

“Rita and Chiara are dedicated experts in their trade and are essential to keeping our personnel and equipment ready for our core mission. Their contributions to the 839th, both personally and professionally, are immense and they make an impact every day,” said Lt. Col. Aaron Hiatt, commander, 839th Transportation Battalion. “From their respective roles in supply and administration, Rita and Chiara willingly provide us with much-needed advice and guidance on navigating the complexities of life in Italy along with cultural perspectives and advice we would otherwise miss. I’m so grateful the Maccanti sisters are a part of our 839th Family!”

Whether they are outfitting a newly arrived Soldier with supplies or helping them navigate a complex administrative process in a foreign country, the Maccanti sisters prove that family and mission are one and the same at the 839th Transportation Battalion.