For me it was (1986-1988)Communication Site Chief, 54th Signal Company, 509th Signal Battalion, attached to 34th U.S. Army Air Defense (Nike Hercules) assigned to :
1ª Brigata Aerea , 16° Stormo , 57° Gruppo Intercettori, Aeronautica Militare, Ceggia
(1st Air Brigade, 16th Wing, 57th Interceptor Group, Italian Air Force (Ceggia Missle Base)).
Two of the best years of my life.
Our security was provided by the Carabinieri Detachment. But met many Alpini while I was there. I have a good friend here in Washington DC who took Alpini training... and has the hat to prove it!