7th CSC takes part in Italian liberation ceremony

CAVARZERE, Italy — Soldiers from the 7th Civil Support Command, the Italian army and local civilians of Cavarzere, Italy, took part in a ceremony April 25 to pay tribute and honor those who lost their lives during World War II and helped change Italy forever.

In 1945, Allied forces and resistance partisans fought for the liberation of Italy, ultimately helping to secure a free democratic Italian society.

After almost two years of fighting up the spine of the Italian peninsula taking heavy casualties, the hostilities were ended, and Italy was finally liberated.

Col. Friedbert Humphrey, the commander of the 361st Civil Affairs Brigade, 7th CSC, was invited to speak at ceremony in Cavarzere, which marked the 65th anniversary of the liberation of Italy. 

“Today we have an enemy not representing an entire nation but representing only evil,” Colonel Humphrey said. “Instead of trying to occupy land mass or displace our military forces, the enemy wishes to destroy the very existence of liberty and of civilized nations, cultures and religions.”

Colonel Humphrey told the crowd that we must support our allies who are defending freedom in places like Iraq and Afghanistan, just as was done in Italy during World War II. 

 “Our troops are putting their lives on the line to protect our freedom and liberate people from oppressive regimes just as they did here and elsewhere 65 years ago,” Colonel Humphrey said.

Colonel Humphrey told the audience their support for Soldiers is one of the most powerful weapons in the war against terrorism.

Pier L. Parisotto, the mayor of Cavareze, thanked the Italian Reserve Association, the 7th CSC and citizens of Cavareze for making the commemoration a success.
Mr. Parisotto presented Colonel Humphrey the town crest as a symbol of appreciation for his part in supporting the celebration of the 65th anniversary of liberation of Italy.

Colonel Humphrey said the 7th CSC has a very active engagement program throughout Europe, including Italy.

“This ceremony marked yet another event in which we displayed the flag, and we showed our interest, not only in what U.S. forces do here in Europe but also in what our allies do in their communities here in Europe,” Colonel Humphrey said.