Italy commemorates Italian Military Internees (IMI) nationwide

Across various Italian cities, ceremonies were held to observe the National Day of the Italian Military Internees (IMI). This day commemorates the approximately 600,000 Italian soldiers who, following the armistice of September 8, 1943, refused to collaborate with Nazi-fascist forces and were instead deported to concentration camps and forced labor sites.

In numerous provinces, including Nuoro, Pistoia, Milan, Frosinone, and Palermo, local authorities and prefectures presented Medals of Honor to the families of the deceased. These awards, conferred by the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, recognize the courage and dignity of those who endured imprisonment, hunger, and death in German-controlled territories.

Commemorative events included the inauguration of public spaces, such as a park in Pordenone dedicated to the IMI, and religious services. Families and descendants shared personal testimonies, letters, and diaries to ensure the historical memory of these soldiers is passed to future generations, highlighting their role as a form of non-armed resistance.