by EH
In a series of solemn and celebratory events, Friuli Venezia Giulia honored the Guardia di Finanza on Tuesday, marking the 250th anniversary of Italy’s esteemed financial police force. The commemorations, spanning multiple cities, underscored the profound impact and enduring legacy of the Guardia di Finanza in safeguarding legality and fostering regional development.
The central ceremony took place on the historic hill of San Giusto in Trieste, where Governor Massimiliano Fedriga led the proceedings. Addressing a gathering of dignitaries, officers, and citizens, Mr. Fedriga expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Guardia di Finanza for their pivotal role in maintaining economic and social justice in the region.
“It is a great honor, on this important occasion, to express our deepest gratitude to the women and men of the Guardia di Finanza,” Mr. Fedriga stated. “Their constant fight against tax evasion, smuggling, money laundering, financial fraud, and other forms of illegality is indispensable for the growth of our community and the nation as a whole.”
The governor highlighted the critical partnership between the regional government and the Guardia di Finanza, which has been instrumental in attracting investments and creating new opportunities for development and employment. “The presence of the Guardia di Finanza ensures that public resources are used for the common good, promoting equity and transparency,” Mr. Fedriga noted.
A poignant moment of the ceremony was the tribute to the 97 finance officers who were victims of the foibe massacres in May 1945, and to Giulio Alberto Pacchione and Lorenzo Paroni, who died during a training exercise on Mount Mangart last year. “We must never forget those who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty,” Mr. Fedriga said. “These fallen heroes should be honored, and we extend our gratitude to their families and loved ones.”
Celebrations extended across the region, with a significant event in Pordenone attended by Infrastructure Assessor Cristina Amirante. “This force continues to achieve brilliant results in the Pordenone area,” Ms. Amirante remarked. “The fruits of this intense and productive activity are the logical consequence of a strong synergy with other law enforcement agencies and various civil institutions.”
In Gorizia, the festivities took place at the Command headquarters on Via Diaz, where Regional Heritage Assessor Sebastiano Callari conveyed the Regional Council’s greetings. “With the D’Annunzio motto ‘Nec recisa recedit,’ adopted by the Guardia di Finanza, I extend sincere best wishes and thanks to the women and men of the Guardia di Finanza for their daily service to citizens and institutions,” Mr. Callari said. He emphasized the force’s role in ensuring community safety and upholding worker safety and legality, particularly in combating economic and financial crimes.
The day’s events concluded in Trieste with the conferral of honorary citizenship by the Municipality, attended by Regional Assessor for Local Autonomies Pierpaolo Roberti. “The honorary citizenship strengthens the already strong bond between Trieste and the Guardia di Finanza,” Mr. Roberti noted. “It expresses our gratitude for the daily work of the women and men who, with commitment and competence, contribute to making this region a safe territory despite the geographical risks it faces.”
As the day of celebration drew to a close, the ceremonies in Friuli Venezia Giulia stood as a testament to the enduring commitment of the Guardia di Finanza. The events highlighted the force’s crucial role in upholding the rule of law and fostering regional prosperity, honoring their 250 years of service with respect and gratitude.
