VICENZA, Italy – Patrizia Brandolese, an Italian employee who works at Caserma Ederle, recently received Knight of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic for her dedication to humanitarian efforts, historical preservations and helping people both on and off post.
During a June 2 ceremony in Padova’s Piazza dei Signori, that coincided with the 79th anniversary of the Republic of Italy, Brandolese received the knighthood – known as Cavaliere Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana. The award celebrates remarkable contributions to Italian society and the global community for humanitarian, cultural, and artistic achievements. It’s similar a presidential medal of freedom in the United States.
Brandolese, an information technology specialist with the 509th Signal Battalion, earned the recognition for a range of contributions to the community. She supports the Order of Malta, a worldwide relief agency that provides rescue and humanitarian services. She also has worked to protect and preserve the World War I monument for casualties at Monte Grappa. At Caserma Ederle, she volunteers time a translator, liaison at ceremonies and to help Soldiers outside work hours.
Passionate about her efforts, Brandolese is humble when talking about her activities and this accomplishment.
“I think it’s the love of the stuff you do for others; this is the unique ingredient, this is the stuff that you use to do your job every day,” said Brandolese. “I’m really grateful to the Army that has always supported me and taught me to hold these values.”
Lt. Col. Jae Marquis, Commander of the 509th Signal Battalion, attended the knighting ceremony, along with Brandolese’s family. He said it’s an honor to have an employee like her.
“We have employees like Patrizia, that are 100 percent dedicated to her duties, that really care for the people she works for and the people that she serves,” Marquis said.
