Rome, 10 May (LaPresse) – "The 97th national gathering of the Alpini, held in the historic city of Genoa, will renew the unbreakable bond that unites the Black Feathers with the nation. Guardians of a noble tradition of loyalty and courage that inspires the units on active service – outstanding members of the Army engaged in international missions to ensure stability and in crisis areas – the retired Alpini, united within the ANA, embody the values of solidarity that characterise them through numerous voluntary and Civil Protection activities. “May the Association receive the Republic’s appreciation for its dedicated efforts, a precious resource and a contribution to the life of the entire community.” So said the President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, in the message sent to the President of the National Alpine Association, Sebastiano Favero. “On this day of celebration, our thoughts go out to those among the Alpini who ‘have gone on ahead’,” continued the Head of State. The Association’s Labaro, a testament to the courage of those who fell in the line of duty, sacrificing their lives for the ideals of love of country, represents them all.” “To all those gathered here, I extend my best wishes for the complete success of the event, as a testament to the sentiments of honour and sense of duty that are their own,” concludes Mattarella.