Mario Rigatti

Rovereto, 1910-Treviso, 1970

World War II: Fighters

After enlisting in the Italian Royal Air Force, he achieves the rank of sergeant (1931-1932). After obtaining a diploma in accounting, he is nominated second lieutenant and fights in Spain in the 23rd Fighter Group ‘Ace of Clubs’. In June 1940 he is at the western front as commander of the 75the Squadrilla (23rd Fighter Group) equipped with Fiat CR.42 aircraft. Injured above Malta, he loses a leg. Despite this he is promoted to captain and returns to serve in northern Africa and in Tunisia (3rd Fighter Wing). After the armistice, he remains in the ranks of the Italian Co-Belligerent Air Force (4th Fighter Wing). Two Silver Medals of Military Valor, one Gold Medal of Military Valor, and one Iron Cross 2nd Class.