Speech of the Roman March
By Benito Mussolini
Officers, NCO's, Legionaries, near and far!
First of all, I want to tell you that I am proud of you.
You present yourself as a united mass with a single face.
Those who in March 1923 saw the first parade of the Legions and are fortunate enough to witness it again today, can immediately measure the enormous scale of progress that has been made.
Joined by the other Armed Forces of the State, whose fraternal camaraderie alleviates difficult struggles in times of peace, the Militia mobilizes its battalions during war to represent and pass on the heroic spirit of Fascist squadrism, which was and remains the faithful old guard of the Revolution.
During these 15 years, the Militia has written pages of blood and glory in Libya, in Ethiopia, and in Spain.
It is ready to engage in even more arduous trials. I know that you are very eager.
Legionaries!
Soon, after a few days of exercises, twelve of your battalions will parade through Via dei Trionfi with the new Roman parade march.
Some outcrop reserves are simply out of place. The parade march symbolizes the strength, the will, and the energy of the younger Fascist generations who are enthusiastic about it.
It is a march that has a difficult and tough style, which requires preparation and training. That's why we want it.
It is a march that the sedentary, pot-bellied, deficient lightweights are incapable of performing. That's why we like it.
Our opponents claim that the parade march is the most genuine expression of the authentic spirit of militarism. We are happy with this definition.
This is why we have adopted it and in a short time we will execute it to perfection. Because the Italian people can do everything when they want to.
Legionaries!
Fascist Italy is strong, has many weapons, has many well-trained men, has only one command, and has a soul tempered by four wars.
Fascist Italy respects the interests of all, but is ready to defend its own peace and its own future against anyone.
Do you understand?
(The Legionaries respond with a single cry: "Yes!").
Battalions! Salute the King!
