Independence Day in Milan

Celebrating the 240th Anniversary of America’s Independence at the Castello Sforzesco in Milan

Milan, July 1, 2016

2Friday evening, July 1, the Consul General and Mrs. Reeker, welcomed 900+ guests to a special event celebrating the 240th anniversary of the U.S. Independence. The event was held at the historic Castello Sforzesco and the new Deputy Mayor of Milan, Anna Scavuzzo, and her husband joined the Reekers on stage. (Mayor Beppe Sala was out of town.)

Amb. Reeker congratulated Milano (and both candidates) on the, “recent election campaigns that were focused on what is important for the citizens and the city. They maintained a positive tone of grace and civility —in contrast to so many other elections around the world these days.” He underscored ConGen Milan’s engagement throughout the eight regions of northern Italy, as part of Ambassador Phillips’ Mission Italy team; highlighted accomplishments of President Obama; and acknowledged the difficulties that we all faced this past year with the violence in Paris, Brussels, Istanbul, Orlando and elsewhere. “We cannot live in fear—and people here understand that. And we have long stuck together as close allies,” said Amb. Reeker.

The Italian and American anthems were played by the Italian Air force marching band, accompanied by Soprano Madelyn Renee.