Francesco Del Prete

Viareggio, 1918-1995

World War II: Torpedo Bombers

After obtaining his pilot’s licence on a Caproni Ca.100 (1936), he then obtains his military licence on a Breda BR.25. As a sergeant, he is assigned to the 45th Aerial Observation Squadrilla (5th group) stationed in Venaria Reale. In June 1937 he transfers to the IMAM Ro.1 Squadrilla in eastern Africa, where he remains until October 1938. Repatriated, he flies IMAM Ro.37 bis, Caproni Ca.111 and Ca.133 aircraft. In 1940 he is promoted to second lieutenant for war deeds and takes part in combat at the Greco-Albanian front and in northern Africa. In 1943 he is assigned to the 278th Torpedo Bombers Squadrilla and participates in the raid on Gibraltar. One Silver Medal of Military Valor.