Sep 3 2024

NHQSa Commander Commemorates the fallen of the "Lyra 34"

NHQSa Commander, BG Matthew A. Valas attended today's ceremony in honour and remembrance of the crew of “LYRA34” who lost their lives on September 3, 1992.

NHQSa Commander, BG Matthew A. Valas saluting during the Commemoration of the fallen of the "Lyra 34".
Photo: NATO Headquarters Sarajevo

Italian Air Force pilot Major Marco Betti, Flight Lieutenant Marco Rigliaco, Warrant Officer Giuseppe Buttaglieri, and Warrant Officer Giuliano Velardi were shot down while serving the UN humanitarian relief operation, delivering aid to besieged Sarajevo.

With their dedication to service and unconditional commitment to bringing peace and security to crisis areas, the crew members were later awarded the Gold Medal of Military Valour.