in a remarkable display of camaraderie and resilience, veterans from across the globe converged in the picturesque mountains of Brisighella, Italy, to construct an Afghan mud village and a military Forward Operating Base (FOB) named Angelo. The initiative, spearheaded by Anthony Stephen Malone, Winner of the prestigious English Veterans Awards Inspiration of the Year and a Lifetime Achievement award, has not only resulted in a unique film set but has also laid the foundation for an International Veteran Retreat – the first of its kind in Europe for families and veterans’ children.
The project brought together veterans from various countries, including the United States (CIA, The Real Jack Ryan), Australia, Britain, Ireland, France, Germany, and Italy, including the renowned Italian military mountaineers, The Alpini. The diverse group faced unprecedented challenges, including relentless rain and copious amounts of mud, as they worked tirelessly to complete the construction in just five days.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by Massimiliano Fiorentini, Director General of the International Bodyguard Association, Mayor Massimiliano Pederzoli of Brisighella, and Anthony Stephen Malone, marked the official opening of the village. Despite the initial adverse weather conditions, the sun illuminated the event, creating a symbolic representation of the triumph over challenges.
The Forward Operating Base Angelo, a part of the film locations, was showcased during a special forces demonstration of a potential film hostage rescue scene. The event saw the attendance of esteemed guests, including Generals, Colonels, a Hollywood Director and Producer, actors, extras in Middle Eastern attire, international media, and the Mayor of Brisighella, Mr. Massimiliano Pederzoli, whose unwavering support played a crucial role in the project’s success.
Support for the Veterans Build project came from various quarters, with up-cycled materials donated by Crossroads Foundation Hong Kong | Global Hand, and transportation arranged by Splash Projects. Humanihuts, a veteran-owned Australian/UK company, provided essential accommodations and facilities for the participants. Local farmers contributed food throughout the build week, highlighting the strong bond formed between the veterans and the local community.
Gillian Dunne, the Italian liaison officer, played a pivotal role in coordinating the project locally. The entire event, including the construction process and official opening, was meticulously captured by UAV Drones based in the U.K., providing a comprehensive record of this remarkable undertaking.
The project, titled ‘Honour Bound,’ aims to portray the extraordinary life of Anthony Stephen Malone, an ex-paratrooper and CIA agent who survived three years in a notorious Afghan prison. Malone’s story involves infiltrating terrorist networks, acquiring critical information, and saving countless lives by thwarting planned bombings.
The success of the Veterans Build project is a testament to the positive mindset and collaborative spirit of the participating veterans. The facility, in addition to serving as a film set, will be utilized as an International Veteran Retreat – a haven for families and veteran children.
The organizers express heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors and supporters, including Stirling Timepieces, Triangle Fragrance New York, Forces Cars Direct, GHQ Spirits, Mountain Warehouse, Crawl4help, Patriot, Rolex LLC, UAV Drones, Fisacon, KJB Kitchens, Clarity & Success, Veterans Pens, La Bottaga di San Martino, Bar Nughini, Popolano, CP Shipping Ltd, Lord Kitchener Guest House, and BRADLEY CDG (HRD), among others, for their unwavering support in making this ambitious project a reality.
