“Combining rigour and balance every day, the members of the state police are the interpreters of the constitutional values of solidarity and social cohesion, such as the contribution offered during recent emergency events and the complex activity in the field of immigration and services for the integration of foreigners,” Mattarella said in a message to Prefect Lamberto Giannini, Chief of Police and Director General of Public Safety and Security.
“The dedication to the common good that characterises the action of the Corps, at the risk of one’s life in the fulfillment of one’s duty, represents a heritage and a precious example,” he said.
On Twitter, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni joined the chorus of the many paying tribute to the selflessness of those who serve their community with such distinction.
“Best wishes to the State Police. For 171 years at the side of Italians with courage, humanity and dedication,” she tweeted.
The anniversary is also an opportunity to honour the memory of the more than 2500 policemen who have sacrificed their lives over the years in defence of the law.
To their names, remembered in the Memorial of the fallen of the Rome Police, this year was added that of the assistant chief coordinator, Domenico Zorzino, 49, who, a month ago, lost his life attempting to save a man who was in his own car when it ploughed into the Gorzone canal in Padua.
Zorzino died after diving in to the icy stretch of water and trying to extract Valerio Buoso, 75, from the vehicle. Buoso also sadly lost his life in the tragedy.
“He did not hesitate to sacrifice his life, his affections, everything he had built, to help a citizen in difficulty, putting the other before himself,” Giannini said in reference to Zorzino.
ANSA
