On Thursday 30 May morning, Brigadier General Giuseppe De Magistris, Director of the Center of Excellence for Stability Police Units (CoESPU), met 230 students in the Aula Magna of the State Professional Institute for Industry and Crafts (IPSIA) “F. Lampertico” of Vicenza, as part of the numerous activities to promote legality and civic education that the School usually carries out.
CoESPU is the Carabinieri-led operational “think tank” that contributes to expanding the capabilities of international organizations worldwide for peace support operations under the aegis of the United Nations, thanks also to the financial support of the United States, through the Department of State and the Global Peace Operations Initiative (GPOI – https://2009-2017.state.gov/t/pm/ppa/gpoi/).
In his speech, focused on the profound meaning of the Tricolor and the Mameli Anthem, the General underlined the importance of these two elements for national identity, defining them “an inseparable combination that nourishes the sense of belonging to the Nation, strengthens social cohesion and lights the flame of love for one’s country”.
The General then retraced the history of the Tricolore, born over 200 years ago, and its profound meaning: green, white and red, representing the universal values of Freedom, Equality and Fraternity. He also recalled the figure of Goffredo Mameli, Italian poet and patriot, author of the National Anthem, whose words “imbued with passion and patriotic ardour, invite fraternal union, courage in the face of adversity and unconditional dedication to the common cause.”
The General concluded his speech by inviting young students to live as aware and responsible citizens, committed to building a better future for Italy. He reminded them of the duty to “respect the institutions, democratic principles and fundamental rights”, highlighting, finally, the importance of Article 54 of the Constitution, which establishes the citizens’ duty to be faithful to the Republic and to observe the Constitution and its read, a loyalty that “is not just a passive duty, but an active commitment”.
