The common thread of solidarity, capable of uniting friendships from afar with the emotion, human warmth, and spirit of brotherhood that permeates Pinzolo every year on the third Saturday of September when the Silver Plaque of the International Alpine Solidarity Award is presented, along with the gold medals in memory of those who fell while helping those in need, brings this prestigious award, now in its 55th edition, back to the Aosta Valley.
In 1990, the recipient was Dr. Pietro Bassi of Courmayeur, one of the pioneering doctors of mountain rescue services, a legendary figure who has always remained in the hearts of friends of the Award. This year, the recipient will be Adriano Favre, a mountain guide from Ayas, for having dedicated over fifty years of his life to the mountains and mountain rescue, distinguishing himself through courage, selflessness, and technical expertise, particularly in the training and use of avalanche dogs. The announcement was made by the President of the National Alpine and Speleological Rescue Corps, Maurizio Dellantonio, and unanimously chosen by the Committee. On this occasion, the Gold Medal of Honour will be awarded to the family of Luca Sinigaglia, a highly experienced mountaineer who lost his life on Pik Pobeda, Kyrgyzstan, while attempting to rescue a fellow mountaineer who was injured and stranded at over 7,000 meters. This gesture of extraordinary altruism and solidarity, accomplished in extreme conditions, embodies the most authentic mountain values of courage, generosity, and brotherhood.
The ceremony will take place in Pinzolo at the Paladolomiti on Saturday, September 19th, in the presence of religious, civil, and military authorities and all mountain people. As is tradition, the day before, the recipient will meet with several classes from the Val Rendena Comprehensive Institute, where he will present his work and answer questions from the students. An important opportunity for discussion and growth for young people, called to reflect on the values of solidarity, courage, and civic engagement.
