II1VPP from May 10th to May 19th, 2025

[iz1kvq]

II1VPP https://www.qrz.com/db/II1VPP Callsign and the Battle of Pertuso

A Confluence of History and Ham Radio
The amateur radio callsign II1VPP has recently been active, commemorating a significant historical event in the Ligurian region of Italy: the Battle of Pertuso.

This special callsign activation, running from May 10th to May 19th, 2025, aims to connect radio amateurs and highlight the historical importance of the Pertuso Pass.
While the callsign activation focuses on a specific historical event, it's important to note that there are actually two notable battles associated with the Pertuso area.
The callsign II1VPP specifically commemorates the Battle of Pertuso of May 10, 1625. On this date, a small force of the Republic of Genoa, supported by volunteers from the Valpolcevera valley and led by the parish priest of Montanesi, bravely defeated a much larger Franco-Savoyard army commanded by Duke Carlo Emanuele I of Savoy. This surprising victory forced the Duke to abandon his ambitions of conquering Genoa. As a sign of gratitude for the Virgin Mary's intercession, a sanctuary was erected at the site of the battle, and Genoa was consecrated to the "Madonna Regina della Vittoria." The location quickly became a pilgrimage site.
However, the name "Battle of Pertuso" is also associated with a more recent conflict during World War II. Between August 24th and 27th, 1944, the Pertuso Pass was the site of fierce fighting between German Wehrmacht troops, aided by Blackshirts from the Novi Ligure Officer Cadet School led by Siegfried Engel, and the Garibaldi partisan forces of the "Cichero" Division from the Tortona and Genoa areas. The partisans successfully defended the upper Borbera Valley in this engagement.
The current activation of the II1VPP callsign, as indicated by information on QRZ.com, specifically ties into the 1625 battle. The objective of the activation is for participating stations to contact special callsigns, section stations, and activating members to achieve the necessary points for a diploma. This event coincides with the anniversary of the 1625 battle and utilizes various amateur radio bands and modes, including SSB, CW, and digital modes like FT4 and FT8.
Therefore, the II1VPP activation serves as a unique way to remember and celebrate the historical significance of the Battle of Pertuso of 1625, connecting the traditions of amateur radio with a pivotal moment in the history of Genoa and the Ligurian region. While another significant battle occurred at the same location centuries later, the current ham radio activity specifically commemorates the earlier, surprising victory that shaped the region's destiny.

Award managerFabio IU1HGO (iu1hgo@yahoo.com)