Creating a link between community and the armed forces: Italian forces annual training day draws youth participation

By Ten. Cpl Paolo Lecci

Now in its third year, the training day – an annual technical and sporting competition, full of physical activity – has provided the optimal formula in connecting the armed forces with the younger generation. 

This year’s event was held in Mompiano, Brescia (Italy) and drew a large number of high-school students from Brescia and its provinces. First established by Mr. Roberto Viani – a member of UNUCI (the Italian reserve officers’ association) and a teacher at Bianchi Technical High School – in 2005, along the lines of similar initiatives in other NATO European countries in recent years, the training day consists of a selection of technical and cultural tests in topographics, first aid, recognition of  vehicles, the English language, humanitarian doctrine, and easy obstacle race and a 6-kilometre hill march. Participants can also try their hand at shooting with a 22-gauge shotgun and airguns, or at a mock battle.
 
 

This unique event was modelled after the French JAPD or “Journées des Lycéens” – secondary school students’ days organized in France on a large scale. The support of the Military District of Brescia has been essential as well as that of local army associations, such as UNUCI and the National Association of Alpine Troops, who provided significant and much appreciated logistical support.

This year’s event involved an increased number of armed forces staff and included participation by representatives of the local military district, soldiers of the Genio Guastatori Regiment  in Cremona (for the second consecutive year), and members of the “Monte Cervino” Italian Alpine paratroops. The Bergamo Red Cross was also on hand to provide support.

The Amateur Sports Association of the Officers of the Reserve List in Brescia includes professional officers from the Selected Reserve Officers Group, who play an important role in the army’s auxiliary forces. Their professional experience and capabilities, acquired through their civilian employment, provide an important link between communities and the country’s armed forces.

Reserve officers now play an important role in the recruitment of youth into the armed forces, an initiative of local civil and military authorities aimed at improved cooperation between active duty and reserve personnel. This integrated effort, including special events such as the annual training day, are achieving their objectives in bringing communities and members of the armed forces closer together.