PISA, Italy – The Darby Military Community celebrated the 250th birthday of the U.S. Army with the help of Italian historians and reenactors who shared Army stories from World War II.
For one noncommissioned officer, Sgt. Eric Troxler of the 529th Military Police Company, the Army’s birthday offered a chance to learn about the Army’s military police history and more, he said.
“It’s great to talk about history and learn about the lineage,” Troxler said. “It’s a nice experience to understand what we represent.”
Founded in 1775, one year before America’s formation, the U.S. Army has stepped into action time and time again, from the Revolutionary War to today’s modern missions. Throughout their long history, Army soldiers have overcome challenges and exhibited the army spirit of resilience in defending and building our nation.
U.S. Army Garrison Italy’s senior enlisted leader, Command Sgt. Maj. Ricardo Moreno , spoke about the significance of the U.S. Army flag, which stood nearby, adorned by 190 streamers each representing a different military campaign.
“These streamers tell the story that we are celebrating here today,” Moreno said.
During the June 11 event, Ben Appleby, a history teacher and documentary producer from Torbole, Italy spoke about Col. William O. Darby, the WWII officer who Camp Darby is named for. Darby, who created the U.S. Army Rangers, was killed 80 years ago on April 30, 1945 in Torbole, along the shores of Lake Garda.
U.S. Consul General of Florence, Daniela Ballard attended the event and her presence served as a powerful reminder of the deep respect owed to those who serve, the enduring connection with the Camp Darby Military Community, and the critical importance of fostering strong international relations.
Local historians and representatives of the Pistoia Gothic Line Association and the 34th Infantry Division Association – Italian Chapter displayed a wide variety of fascinating historical items from WWII at the event. They also dressed in authentic WWII U.S. military and Carabinieri uniforms. This remarkable contribution was a striking reminder of the depth of Army history in the Tuscany region.
The U.S. Army celebrates its 250th Birthday on June 14 under the theme “This We’ll Defend.” Camp Darby’s event was capped off with a traditional cutting of the Army cake, done by the oldest and the youngest Army Soldiers in attendance. Respectively JAG Officer Maj. Tulsi Rogers, and Spc. Charles Steele with the 529th MP Company.
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