Senior IMCOM Leader Engages with U.S. Army Garrison in Italy

The enchanting blend of history, culture, and natural beauty of Italy often brings military leaders, diplomats, and tourists alike to its lands.

In a recent visit, Maj. Gen. James Smith, acting commander of U.S. Army Installation Management Command (IMCOM), honored U.S. Army Garrison Italy in Vicenza.

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For those unfamiliar with the setting, the significance of this trip is not just in its military implications—it takes place in a city that serves as a gateway to the stunning Italian Riviera.

This region promises dazzling coastlines, historic towns, and unforgettable experiences for travelers.

Maj. Gen. James Smith’s Visit to Vicenza

On August 1, Maj. Gen. James Smith embarked on a professional journey to U.S. Army Garrison Italy to celebrate the employees supporting American forces overseas and evaluate operational setups.

His trip included detailed briefings, tours of strategic installations, and face-to-face conversations with personnel, including a mix of U.S. and Italian employees.

He explored Caserma Del Din and Caserma Ederle, key facilities integral to U.S.-Italy military collaboration.

At the Villaggio housing construction site, he inspected a newly designed mock-up apartment, which will serve as housing for military families upon completion in 2026.

Smith rounded out his visit by recognizing the exceptional contributions of team members during a special ceremony.

He also took in the historic charm of Vicenza, with a standout stop at the Monte Berico lookout—a site offering sweeping views of the picturesque city.

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A Hub of History and Culture

Vicenza, though known as a critical U.S. military base in Italy, is much more than its strategic importance.

This city, under the UNESCO World Heritage designation, is a treasure trove of Renaissance architecture influenced heavily by the revered architect Andrea Palladio.

Visitors can marvel at the Teatro Olimpico, a grand theater, or take a leisurely stroll to enjoy Palladio’s villas sprinkled around the area.

Vicenza opens the gateway to Northern Italy’s most captivating destinations.

The Italian Riviera: A Must-Visit for Travelers

Just a few hours’ journey from Vicenza lies the enchanting Italian Riviera.

Stretching from the French border to Tuscany, the Riviera is a paradise of turquoise waters, cliffside villages, and culinary delights.

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As Maj. Gen. Smith symbolically stood at the Monte Berico lookout, travelers visiting this region are reminded of the equal allure of Ventimiglia, Sanremo, and beyond—all waiting to be discovered along the Riviera coast.

Top Towns and Cities to Explore in the Italian Riviera

If Vicenza piques your interest in Northern Italy, venture further into the Riviera to experience its vibrance.

Here are eight towns that epitomize the charm of this iconic coastal region:

Genoa: Known as the gateway to the Riviera, Genoa boasts a rich maritime history and fresh seafood delights. The historic port city is a hub of art, palaces, and bustling markets.
Portofino: A darling of the jet-setting crowd, this picture-perfect fishing village is famous for its pastel-hued buildings, luxurious yachts, and serene bay views.
Santa Margherita Ligure: Nestled between Genoa and Portofino, this elegant seaside town is a fantastic destination to embrace Italian dolce vita with fewer crowds.
Camogli: Known for its colorful cliffside homes, Camogli is the quintessential Riviera fishing village and offers stunning panoramas of the Ligurian Sea.
Cinque Terre: This UNESCO-listed cluster of five fishing villages—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—is a showstopper with its dazzling cliffside trails and coastal views.
Sanremo: Famous for its music festival and vibrant flowers, this sophisticated town exudes old-world glamour with a modern twist.
Levanto: Often ignored in favor of nearby Cinque Terre, Levanto is a hidden gem, ideal for surfers, nature enthusiasts, and seafood lovers.
Ventimiglia: Perfectly situated near the French border, this charming town presents a unique blend of Ligurian and French influences, ideal for market shopping and day trips.

The Connection Between Vicenza and the Riviera

For travelers, the journey between Vicenza and the Italian Riviera creates an unforgettable travel experience. The proximity to the coast highlights how Vicenza, steeped in Renaissance glory, serves as a cultural launchpad to Italy’s sun-soaked Ligurian coastline.

From historic landmarks to Riviera sunsets, this region lets visitors create a balanced itinerary blending art, food, and natural beauty. Much like the commitment expressed by Col. Vaughn Strong and his garrison team, the Riviera reflects unparalleled dedication—encapsulating centuries of history, architecture, and tradition.

Whether visiting for military duty, work, or leisure, Vicenza and the Italian Riviera embody Italy’s boundless appeal. From visiting Monte Berico to sipping limoncello in Riomaggiore, your Italian adventure awaits.

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