Uniforms The most distinctive feature of Bersaglieri uniforms is the presence of the Capercallie feather -- a tradition that emerged from the earliest days of the unit. In order to prove their marksmanship, recruits once had to bring down a Capercallie bird with their rifle. Once they put the feather of their kill in the band of their helmet, it was proof that they were a true soldier.
While the tradition has long since faded away, the spirit still remains and recruits are only awarded the black feather when they pass the weapons qualification at basic training. Originally chosen because it was visible and suited to the Terracielian sunshine, the color white is an integral part of the Bersaglieri uniform, especially the dress uniform.
Despite its high visibility, white is still worn even in combat zones, as a homage to the heroes and ancestors that came before.
Field UniformsBersaglieri combat uniforms (shown above at right) are simple -- depending on the theatre, khaki or olive-drab fatigues are worn. Insignia is minimal, usually only collar stars and epaulette rank slides. A web belt/harness and fiberglass flak jacket are worn with white steel helmet. "India"-Pattern boots, with built-in gaiters, are worn with the trouser leg tucked in. Soldiers and officers carry a pistol holster attached to the web-belt; the lanyard cord is worn around the neck.
Dress UniformsThe dress uniform (shown above at left) consists of a white shirt and trousers, white gloves, leather belt and sun helmet. A red undershirt, epualettes and aiguillette are worn in addition to unit insignia (worn on upper sleeve) and Bersaglieri insignia (worn on collar tabs). Polished dress shoes are worn.
RanksGeneral
Lieutenant General
Divisional General
Brigadier General
Colonel
Lieutenant Colonel
Major
First Captain
Captain
First Lieutenant
Lieutenant
Chief Sergeant-Major
Sergeant-Major
First Sergeant
Sergeant
Chief Corporal-Major
Corporal-Major
First Corporal
Corporal
Private
DecorationsThe highest honor available to soldiers of the Principality is the
Gold Medal of Valor. It is awarded only for the "most exceptional acts of bravery, endurance, sacrifice and honor on the field of battle."
The Merit of War Cross is awarded to soldiers who have been greviously wounded or have fallen as a direct result of enemy action.
Other decorations include:
Combat Action Citation (top left) - Awarded for directly participating in combat against the enemy.
Royal Guard Citation (top right) - Awarded after serving in the Royal Guard contingent
Lifesaving Citation (middle left) - Awarded for saving another's life
Sea Service Citation (middle right) - Awarded after serving in a unit based at sea
Patriot's Citation (bottom left) - Awarded after completion of basic training/graduation of a service academy
Long Service Citation (bottom right) - Ribbon awarded after 4 years. Gold stars awarded for every 4 years afterward.