Born in Livorno in 1972, CDR Casapieri attended the Naval Academy in Livorno where he graduated in 1994 with a degree in Maritime and Naval Sciences. After qualifying as surface warfare officer in 1995, he embarked on board ITS Libeccio and soon afterwards, in 1996, was selected for flight training in Naval Air Station Pensacola (Florida - USA), awarding his Naval Aviator wings in 1999. CDR Casapieri served in the Italian Fleet Air Arm as Amphibious Support helicopter pilot and in the Naval Aviation Department of the Italian Navy General Staff. His most significant assignments include: − Sharp Guard Operation on board ITS

Libeccio (1996-1997) − Joint Guardian, Enduring Freedom and Antica Babilonia operations (1999-2004) − Commanding officer of ITS Libra, OPV of the Cassiopea Class (2004-2005) − Project Officer of the Joint Strike Fighter program (2005-2008) − Commanding officer of 4th and 5th Naval Academy Classes (2008-2009) − Chief of the Naval Test and Evaluation Center in Luni (2012-2013) − Commanding Officer of ITS Carlo Bergamini, frigate of the FREMM class (2014) Since September 2014 he is working at the Naval Aviation Department (Italian Navy General Staff) and currently he is responsible of the Aviation Programmes Office. During his career he received the following qualifications and awards: − Nato Medal for Kosovo − Memorial Cross for International Assistant Activity In Iraq − Memorial Cross for Security and Reconciliation International Operations in

Afghanistan − Silver Cross (16 years of service) − Memorial Cross for Kosovo Peace Mission (ONU Resolution 1244/99) − Military Aeronautical Bronze Cross (10 years’ service in Air Navigation) CDR Casapieri is married and has two children.

COMMANDER Marco CASAPIERI