The bodies of the four soldiers who died in Bosnia have been returned to Italy. Mattarella pays tribute

The bodies of Sergeants Simone Ruggia and Claudio Marchesi, and of members of the Red Cross Military Corps, Lieutenant Franco Adriano Zecchillo and Sergeant Laura Procacci, who died last Thursday in the crash of an Italian helicopter in Bosnia during a training flight, have arrived at Ciampino Airport. The coffins were received by the President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella; the Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni; the Minister of Defence, Guido Crosetto; and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Antonio Tajani.

“Today, Simone, Claudio, Franco Adriano and Laura have returned to Italy. With them, in spirit, is an entire nation united in grief and gratitude towards four public servants who gave their lives for us all,” wrote Crosetto on social media. “No words can fill the void they leave behind in their families and amongst their loved ones. We bow our heads in honour of their sacrifice, with respect, emotion and gratitude.”

The coffins of the four soldiers who died in Bosnia were laid out in the large forecourt of Ciampino Airport, where they were accorded military honours. Following the religious blessing, the President of the Republic reviewed the coffins and paused for a few moments in silent reflection before each one.

Now, following a sombre farewell from their families, the bodies of the four soldiers will be transported in four hearses to the Celio Military Hospital, where a lying-in-state has been arranged. The solemn state funeral will take place tomorrow at 9 am in the Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli in Piazza della Repubblica, Rome. Among those attending will be the President of the Senate, Ignazio La Russa.