The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) hosted a distinguished reception last night at the Historic Decatur House, on the occasion of the 75th NATO Summit, celebrating Italian American excellence in the military and strengthening U.S.-Italy relations. 

General Christopher Cavoli, NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe, was awarded the prestigious NIAF Fiorello LaGuardia Medal for his outstanding service and accomplishments. This award, named after the iconic three-term Mayor of New York City, honors individuals who exemplify the spirit of service and leadership demonstrated by LaGuardia himself. 

In his acceptance remarks, which he skillfully blended in both Italian and English, General Cavoli expressed his deep appreciation for his heritage and adopted nation, stating, "I am an American. I serve and have served for almost 38 years. The nation that my family adopted. I consider myself fortunate to have a country that I would die for, but that so happily allows me to blend my heritage with my citizenship, it's a beautiful thing." He concluded his speech with a heartfelt declaration in Italian, "Sappiate che questo americano batte un cuore italiano." ("Know that this American's heart beats Italian.") 

Fiorello LaGuardia, at age 35, voluntarily left his seat in Congress during World War I to serve as a Captain in Italy, running a flight training school for American pilots in Foggia, Italy. LaGuardia flew combat missions in massive Italian Caproni bombers across the Alps and used his oratorical skills to rally the Italian populace against invaders. His efforts contributed significantly to Italy's eventual victory at the Battle of Vittorio Veneto. 

NIAF President Robert Allegrini remarked, "The LaGuardia Medal draws its name and inspiration from this shining example of Italian American patriotism. General Cavoli's service continues this proud tradition of Italian Americans answering the call to serve their country." 

The event highlighted the enduring alliance between the United States and Italy, particularly in the post-World War II era and through NATO. Notable attendees included the Honorable Antonio Tajani, Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honorable Guido Crosetto, Minister of Defense of the Italian Republic and Her Excellency Mariangela Zappia, Italian Ambassador to the United States, underscoring the importance of the occasion. 

Allegrini also announced plans to participate with the City of Vicenza as a partner in the city’s first Italy USA friendship festival in 2025, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of the American military presence in Vicenza and NIAF's 50th anniversary. Vicenza, home to approximately 15,000 American servicemen and civilians out of a total population of 112,000, making it the highest per capita concentration of Americans of any city in Italy, exemplifies the strong bonds between the two nations. 

The reception not only honored individual excellence but also reinforced the enduring relationship between the United States and Italy, setting the stage for future collaborations and celebrations.