Honoring Heroes: Commemoration of Italian Military Pioneers

In a significant tribute to Italy’s military history, monuments have been erected to honor the contributions of notable figures like Marko Kosović, Antonio Radović, and Jovan Čubranović. These individuals played critical roles in various wars, showcasing bravery and commitment to the Italian unification efforts in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Marko Kosović distinguished himself during pivotal military engagements, including the assault on Kalatafimi and the capture of Palermo. Serving as an officer in command of the 2nd Infantry Regiment, he participated in the Battle of Volturno and earned commendation from the renowned general Giuseppe Garibaldi in his work “The Thousand.” Kosović emerged from the war with the rank of lieutenant colonel, later confirmed in his position within the Italian military until his resignation in 1863. He volunteered again during the Third War of Independence in 1866, where he was appointed as a lieutenant colonel in the 9th volunteer corps.

Kosović’s leadership continued to shine as he took command of the 10th Volunteer Regiment after Colonel Francesco Corvi stepped down. His regiment primarily defended the coast against Austrian naval forces from their base in Garniano. He actively participated in the Battle of Bezzeca, supporting the 9th Regiment under Menotti Garibaldi, which was crucial in liberating the Ledro Valley from Austrian control. Following the conflict, and in the wake of Italy’s victory alongside Prussia, Venecia was finally integrated into Italy’s borders, marking a significant territorial change that would remain until the end of the First World War.

Kosović was awarded the Officer’s Cross of the Military Order of Savoy on June 12, 1861, for his “heroic distinction in every endeavor,” particularly noted for his bravery during the Bezzeca campaign. In 1930, a commemorative plaque was erected in Venice to honor his legacy as a patriot and participant in “The Thousand.” He is interred at San Michele Cemetery.

Antonio Radović: A Symbol of Resilience

Another prominent figure, Antonio Radović, was born on May 1, 1837, in Spresiano, Treviso, Italy. His early life was marked by hardship, including the loss of both parents at a young age. Despite these challenges, he became involved in the 1848 sabotage of the Priula wooden bridge and later joined the Piedmontese army. Radović fought bravely in significant battles during the Second War of Independence, including Solferino and San Martino.

By 1860, he served under General Sirtori during the expedition known as “The Thousand.” As a sergeant and later a second lieutenant, he participated in the successful campaign against the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. Radović was wounded while defending his position in Palermo, earning commendations and a pension for his service. His military career continued despite a brief political fallout, ultimately serving as an aide-de-camp to Prince Amedeo of Savoy during the Third War of Independence in 1866.

In 1910, Radović was granted honorary citizenship of Marsala. During World War I, he opened a field hospital in Dolo for wounded soldiers, earning a gold medal from the Red Cross for his valor.

Jovan Čubranović: From Soldier to Journalist

Jovan Čubranović, born in 1885 in Rovca, Montenegro, represents a unique link between military service and journalism. He participated in the Balkan Wars and later joined the Italian army during World War I. His experiences on the front lines included service in the Montenegrin army’s main inspectorate. After Montenegro’s defeat in January 1916, Čubranović engaged in operations on the Salonika front as a scout.

Later, he joined the Italian navy, where he served under Vice Admiral Enrico Milo in a special command aimed at liberating the Bay of Kotor and assisting Montenegro against Austro-Hungarian forces. For his contributions, he was decorated with the War Merit Cross and sustained injuries twice during the war.

Following the conflict, Čubranović remained in Italy and became an active voice for Montenegrin independence. As a journalist, he published widely across Europe and the Americas, advocating for Montenegrin issues. His most notable work, published in 1934 in Mexico, titled “The Greatest Crime in History,” brought attention to the plight of Montenegro on an international scale.

Throughout the 1930s, he continued to work tirelessly for Montenegrin independence, collaborating with various committees and influential figures to promote awareness of his homeland’s struggles.

These stories of Marko Kosović, Antonio Radović, and Jovan Čubranović illustrate not only their military valor but also their enduring legacies as champions of Italy’s unification and Montenegrin independence. Their contributions span not only military achievements but also significant cultural and political impacts in the shaping of modern Italy and the broader region.