Nestled along Italy’s Adriatic coast, the charming city of Ravenna is known for its stunning mosaics and rich history. But recently, it became the backdrop for a deeply personal and historic moment that connected the past and present in a unique way.
Major Casey Anderson, a military intelligence officer stationed at NATO’s Allied Joint Force Command in Naples, found himself walking through Ravenna with a sense of profound connection—not just to the city’s breathtaking streets, but to the legacy of his family and country.
Ravenna was the site of a significant World War II liberation campaign, where Canadian and British forces played a vital role. In 1944, Anderson’s grandfather fought in this campaign and was wounded just before reaching the city’s heart. It was a story Major Anderson wished he’d shared during a brief encounter with King Charles, who was in Ravenna to commemorate the 80th anniversary of that liberation.
In an extraordinary moment, Anderson was presented the King’s Coronation Medal by Charles himself, a rare honor usually given in Canada, but this time bestowed amid the historic Italian setting. The medal celebrates Canadians who have made meaningful contributions to their communities, provinces, or country.
“It was surreal to receive the medal here in Italy, from the King personally,” Anderson reflected. “Being part of this ceremony in a place tied to my grandfather’s story made it even more special.”
The city’s timeless charm — its mosaic-adorned basilicas, narrow cobbled streets, and seaside breeze — served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made decades ago, while Anderson’s presence linked past heroism with present dedication.
King Charles’s visit to Ravenna also highlighted the ongoing ties between Canada, Italy, and the broader Commonwealth, emphasizing respect and remembrance in an international setting.
For travelers, Ravenna is more than an artistic treasure. It’s a place where history lives and stories, like Anderson’s, find new meaning. As you stroll through its piazzas and along its ancient walls, you might reflect on how moments of personal history and global heritage intersect in unexpected, moving ways.
And for Anderson, that fleeting exchange with the King was a humbling chapter in his own journey — one that bridged generations, continents, and the enduring spirit of service.
