Local authorities, members of World War II Resistance Fighters' retiree association, and representatives from the Italian and U.S. militaries took part in a memorial service July 24 here on Pistoia Mountain for those who fought and lost their lives during the war.
The little village of Pian di Novello is located on what was the extreme defensive line of the German Gothic Line and the National Liberation Army-Military Zone XI area of operations, which was joined by the "Patriots" of the U.S. Army's 5th Armored Division.
Because of the proximity of Camp Darby to the battle site, there has always been a close relationship between the mountain community and the military installation. As a sign of respect and thankfulness for fighting as allies and helping to liberate Italy during WWII, the mountain communities of Abetone and Pian di Novello have, for many years, donated the annual Christmas tree that adorns Camp Darby. In addition, a memorial stone at the ceremony's site shows the Italian and American flags framing the image of "Pippo," commander of the Patriots.
Cutigliano Mayor Tommaso Braccesi underlined the importance of maintaining the memory of past battles and to learn from experience.
"It is our responsibility to keep the memory alive so that the younger generation will always know about and (learn to) respect their ancestors' battles for freedom," said Braccesi.
David Leinberger, deputy garrison manager, represented Darby Military Community at the ceremony, along with Staff Sgt. Ira Thompson, DMC senior enlisted adviser, who led the U.S. Army color guard at the ceremony. Italian Base Commander Col. Renato Vaira also took part in the ceremony and highlighted the relationship between Italy and the United States.
"It is an honor to be here remembering those who lost their lives for the freedom we enjoy today and to confirm the long-lasting friendship between our nations," said Vaira.
After the ceremony, special guests were invited to a lunch in a local restaurant to share in food traditions of the area.
"This food we are sharing today comes straight from our mountains and is prepared locally. It is our pleasure to share food and traditions with our American friends," said Tommaso Giani, vice mayor of Cutigliano and event organizer.
Giani also presented the guests with an old map of the area and its battlefields, and a booklet with the history and traditions of the mountain towns as a memento.
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