Apple Pie, Fireworks, BBQ, & Ex-Pats
I've been living here in Italy for a few years now and for the most part I think that I've adapted quite well. I've adjusted to the countless lines at the post office, the simple fact that the supermarket is NOT open on Sunday, and depending on which way the wind is blowing there might be a bus or train strike at any moment for an undisclosed amount of time, albeit never longer than a few hours and never disrupting rush hour.
There are at times though when I need a quick fix of Americana. For this, it's a simple trip to Vicenza on the 4th of July. Every year the Army base, Caserma Ederle, opens its doors to the public, both Italian and Americans alike, to celebrate America's Birthday. This year is no different.
Usually, the festivities are held on the football and baseball area of the base. However, with the new additions being built on the base, I'm not exactly sure where things will be held this year. There is everything that you could possibly expect in any "Small Town, USA". There are carnival games and rides for the kids. Giant BBQs that are preparing hot dogs, cheeseburgers, kabobs, etc... There is apple pie and Budweiser draught beer. Country music and dancing on the main stage and at the end of the evening a fireworks display that is 1000 times more entertaining and amazing than anything my hometown ever put on.
For those of you interested in stopping by, remember to bring your passport just in case because there is heightened security...as there should be. But for the most part, it's a simple check and it goes rather smoothly. I suggest driving if you have the choice; follow the signs off of the Autostrada. If you take the train, make sure you check the return schedule as the fireworks usually don't start until around 10pm.
The soldiers stationed here have been important players in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and they will undoubtedly be called upon for any future conflicts that might arise, especially those in the Middle East and Africa. The base sits just under 2 miles southeast of the town's center and since 1965 it has been the headquarters of SETF, or the Southern European Task Force. Since June of 2000 is has also been the home of the US Army's reactivated 173rd Airborne Brigade, which has been renamed the 173rd Airborne Combat Brigade Team (173rd ACBT).
If you would like to contact me directly about this, or any other event in Venice or northern Italy, visit me HERE.