As Italians marked Republic Day Tuesday with festive aeronautic displays, speeches, and remembrances, military marine Massimiliano Latorre sent his colleague a virtual hug as the pair continued their third year in detention in India.
Even Internet search engine Google entered the holiday with a special tricolour 'Google Doodle' on its search page in remembrance of June 2, 1946 when Italians voted to move from a monarchy to a republic.
During speeches and military parades on Rome's Via dei Fori Imperiali, crowds applauded a reference to the two marines - Latorre and Salvore Girone - who have been detained in India since early 2012.
They have been detained in connection with the deaths of two Indian fishermen while the marines were on anti-piracy patrol.
Latorre, who is currently receiving medical care in his home town of Taranto, sent a virtual hug in a Facebook message to his colleague Girone in India.
Latorre is scheduled to return to India on July 15.
Meanwhile, Senate Speaker Pietro Grasso used Republic Day to urge young people to remember the cost of their freedom and the high value of human rights and democracy.
"I hope there is more and more attention, from the legislature and the institutions, on the issue human rights that are the basis of all other rights," said Grasso.
Defense Minister Roberta Pinotti praised the military for its professionalism, which she said was also recognized by "the affection and closeness expressed by the population" on Republic Day.
Pesident Sergio Mattarella also praised the Italian military, which he said is bringing "hope for a better world" through its work helping in conflict zones.
"Today, in countries crossed by conflict and devastation, it is in bringing aid to suffering civilians that the Italian Armed Forces can help us regain confidence in the future and hope for a better world," Mattarella said in a message to the military on Italy's 69th Republic Day.
Meanwhile, Mattarella said that the sacrifice of the military "constitutes....a valuable asset...in this period when we see injustice and barbarity we thought was definitely outdated".
"All of Italy expresses esteem and gratitude to all of you who continue to keep alive the military traditions of dedication and commitment, to fortify the values of the Republic," he added.
The Italian military has been involved a range of missions, many involving direct help to civilians including assisting in Mediterranean search and rescue operations of tens of thousands of migrants.
Mattarella said Italians at home appreciate the military work, as do international partners.
"You also have the respect of friends and countries in the international community which have learned to appreciate the high value and effectiveness in the field", he said.
He added that the military must continue to cope with "emerging challenges...through a radical and innovative review of the military".
Mattarella and Premier Matteo Renzi joined other Italian politicians at the Altar of the Fatherland memorial for a flag-raising ceremony at the shrine of the Unknown Soldier.
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