Italian Air Force awards blue berets to 15 riflemen in Martina Franca

On 30 July 2026, the 16th Stormo “Protezione delle Forze” held a ceremony in the Piazza d’Armi of Martina Franca, Italy, to present the blue berets to fifteen newly qualified Fucilieri dell’Aria of the 25th course. The air‑riflemen completed a 21‑week training programme that began on 9 March, learning to protect personnel, infrastructure and aircraft in both national and overseas operations.

The event was presided over by General Alessandro De Lorenzo, Commander of the Forces for Mobility and Support, and attended by civil, religious and military authorities. Colonel Cito addressed the graduates, emphasizing the historic bond between the local community, the 16th Stormo and the Italian Air Force. The newly inducted riflemen will join the force‑protection units that safeguard air operations and major events.