When a group U.S. Army firefighters from Camp Darby walked into Pisa hospital, the eyes on a young man named Federico began to sparkle. Others, Anna, Simone, Lorenzo – all children cared for at the hospital’s pediatric oncohematology and pediatric departments, were filled with amazement as the delegation arrived Monday, to offer a “friendly firefighter” demonstration on fire prevention to them and their families.

It was a welcome break from their routine of healthcare procedures. Federico, who was scheduled for surgery that day, took lead on interpretations as he knows Italian, Spanish, French and English. “I have been studying languages for five years,” he said. “Maybe one day, I may come to work at Camp Darby or why not join the American Army.”