"In the sky of Ustica 44 years ago, a massive massacre occurred. All 81 people on the DC9 flight from Bologna to Palermo were killed. That tragedy had a profound impact on the Republic, and it continues to be an open wound because a full truth is still lacking, which contrasts with the need for justice that sustains democratic life". This is the opening statement of the President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, on the anniversary of the tragedy, which was issued yesterday. "First and foremost, I'd like to express my deep solidarity with the victims' families, who never gave up in the face of opacity, obstacles, and distortions, and who always sought, even in the midst of human suffering, to shed light on the circumstances and responsibilities of the tragedy. Their efforts, combined with those of state men who performed their duties with skill and dedication, helped to clear the fog and reconstruct the scene of that tragic event. Significant steps have been taken towards reconstructing the truth. The Museum for the Memory of Ustica, which opened in Bologna, bears witness to this. The Republic will never tire of seeking and requesting collaboration, including from friendly countries, in order to fully reconstruct what occurred on June 27, 1980. At the same time, remembrance transmits to the next generation the values of civil commitment that maintain a community's dignity and strength and enable it to face the most painful and difficult circumstances". (Photo by Quirinale.it)
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