This year marked the final parade for Briciola, the official mascot of the Carabinieri, as she turns 14 and retires. Among the blare of trumpets, paraded horses, and beautiful uniforms at the Republic Day military parade on June 2nd, one presence always manages to attract the audience's attention: Briciola, the small dog who has become Carabinieri's most beloved and identifiable symbol. Briciola, a bright, daring, and mixed-breed, officially joined the "family" of the 4th Mounted Carabinieri Regiment Band in 2014, at the age of one. Since then, her life has revolved around the Tor di Quinto barracks in Rome, where she grew up surrounded by horsemen, musicians, and, most importantly, horses, with whom she developed a strangely natural bond. One of the qualities that distinguished Briciola as the official mascot was her capacity to navigate the horses, music, and parades without fear. Briciola is more than a mascot; she represents a true tradition. Within the Force, the presence of a symbolic animal has deep roots in the past, when these faithful companions accompanied the units even in the most challenging moments. In the present day, its function has evolved; however, it continues to be equally significant in its ability to communicate a message of teamwork, closeness, and humanity.