Honoring Italian Military Heroes: The Legacy of Marko Kosović and Others

In a recent ceremony in Venice, the legacy of notable figures from Italy’s military history was honored, particularly focusing on the heroism of Marko Kosović. His contributions during key battles in the 19th century, including the assault on Kalatafimi and the capture of Palermo, have cemented his status as a celebrated military leader.

Marko Kosović served with distinction in the Italian Army, where he reached the rank of lieutenant colonel. His military career included notable participation in the Battle of Volturno, where he commanded the 2nd regiment. His efforts were recognized by the famous general Giuseppe Garibaldi in his work “The Thousand,” underscoring Kosović’s significance in the Risorgimento movement that sought to unify Italy.

Military Achievements and Recognition

After emerging from the conflict as a lieutenant colonel, Kosović continued his service until 1863, when he resigned. He later volunteered in the Third War of Independence in 1866, joining Garibaldi’s forces once again. He was appointed as a lieutenant colonel in the 9th regiment of the Italian volunteer corps.

When Colonel Francesco Corvi resigned in August following the war, Kosović took command of the 10th Volunteer Regiment. His unit played a crucial role in defending the coast against Austrian naval attacks, particularly during the Battle of Bezzeca, which contributed to the liberation of the Ledro Valley from Austrian forces.

Italy’s alignment with Prussia during the Austro-Prussian War in 1866 ultimately led to the acquisition of Venice, a significant territorial change that would not be altered until the end of World War I. Kosović was awarded the Officer’s Cross of the Military Order of Savoy on June 12, 1861, for his heroic actions throughout various military engagements, particularly noting his bravery at Bezzeca.

A memorial plaque was erected in 1930 in Venice to honor him as a patriot and participant in “The Thousand.” He was laid to rest at San Michele Cemetery, where his contributions to Italy’s military legacy continue to be remembered.

The Remarkable Journey of Antonio Radović

Antonio Radović, another notable figure, was born on May 1, 1837, in Spresiano, Treviso, Italy. He was a devoted protégé of Garibaldi and a strong supporter of the “Capelino Rosso” movement. Radović faced significant personal hardships early in life, losing both parents by the age of 11, yet he demonstrated resilience and commitment to Italy’s unification.

Radović participated in the 1848 sabotage of the Priula wooden bridge and was eventually conscripted into the Ulans before escaping to join the Piedmontese Army. His participation in the pivotal battles of Solferino and San Martino during the Second War of Independence showcased his dedication to the Risorgimento cause.

He later joined Garibaldi’s expedition, serving as a sergeant and later as a second lieutenant. Radović was injured during the battle in Palermo, where he heroically defended against enemy fire. His contributions earned him memorial medals and a pension for his service in “The Thousand.”

After a brief return to ordinary military service, he participated as an aide-de-camp for Prince Amedeo of Savoy during the Third War of Independence in 1866. His later life included a controversial incident in 1869 when he requested the national flag be raised in honor of Garibaldi, which resulted in disciplinary proceedings against him.

Despite setbacks, including the loss of his military rank and pension, Radović’s contributions were eventually recognized, and he participated in the Franco-Prussian War, where he was promoted to major.

Jovan Čubranović’s Contributions in World War I

Jovan Čubranović, born in 1885 in Rovca, Montenegro, also made significant contributions during World War I. He participated in the Balkan Wars and subsequently worked within the Montenegrin Army’s Inspectorate. Following the fall of Montenegro in January 1916, he joined the Italian military, where he served as a naval officer.

As part of the Special Command in Valona, commanded by Vice Admiral Enrico Milo, Čubranović played a crucial role in efforts to liberate Montenegro from Austro-Hungarian control. His bravery earned him the War Merit Cross, and he was wounded twice during the conflict.

After the war, he settled in Italy and became a journalist, advocating for Montenegrin independence. His writings reached a broad audience across Europe and Latin America. His influential work, published in Spanish in 1934 under the title “El crimen más grande de la historia,” drew attention to the plight of Montenegro and its struggle for autonomy.

Throughout his life, Čubranović maintained connections with various independence movements, working closely with prominent figures like Eamon de Valera and Antonio Baldacchi. He remained active in promoting the Montenegrin cause until the early 1930s.

These accounts of Marko Kosović, Antonio Radović, and Jovan Čubranović reflect the enduring legacy of individuals who shaped Italy’s military history and fought for national unity. Their sacrifices and contributions remain a testament to the spirit of resilience and patriotism that characterized Italy’s journey through tumultuous times.