Amedeo Guillet, Italian soldier (d. 2010)

Amedeo Guillet, an extraordinary figure in military history, was born on February 7, 1909, and lived a remarkable 101 years, passing away on June 16, 2010. A distinguished officer of the Italian Army, Guillet earned a unique place in the annals of warfare, being one of the very last commanders to lead cavalry units into direct combat during a major conflict. His life bridged eras, from the twilight of horse-mounted warfare to the dawn of the 21st century.

Guillet’s reputation was cemented during the tumultuous period of the Italian guerrilla war in Ethiopia between 1941 and 1943. It was during this time that his unparalleled courage and audacious tactics earned him the fearsome yet respectful nickname of "Comandante Diavolo," or the Devil Commander.

The Last Cavalryman: A Vanishing Breed

In an era dominated by tanks, aircraft, and mechanized infantry, Amedeo Guillet stood out as a poignant symbol of a bygone age of warfare. His command of cavalry in combat, particularly during the East African Campaign of World War II, was an increasingly rare phenomenon. By the mid-20th century, horse-mounted units had largely been rendered obsolete by advancements in military technology. Guillet, however, demonstrated that under specific circumstances and with exceptional leadership, cavalry could still achieve surprising tactical objectives through speed, shock, and the sheer audacity of their charge.

"Comandante Diavolo": A Legacy of Courage and Daring

The nickname "Devil Commander" was not bestowed lightly. It reflected Guillet's extraordinary bravery and his penchant for leading daring, almost suicidal, operations against numerically and technologically superior British forces. One of the most famous instances of his audacious leadership was the Battle of Keru in January 1941. Leading a charge of his Amedeo Guillet Group, which included Italian and Eritrean cavalry (Ascaris), he famously charged British mechanized units and infantry, creating chaos and demonstrating a level of tactical boldness that stunned his adversaries and inspired his men. This willingness to engage directly and often unexpectedly against overwhelming odds made him a legendary figure.

The Italian Guerrilla War in Ethiopia (1941-1943)

Following the formal defeat and surrender of Italian forces in Italian East Africa to the British in 1941, Amedeo Guillet refused to lay down arms. Instead, he chose to embark on a two-year-long guerrilla campaign in the rugged terrain of Ethiopia. This was not a conventional war but a relentless struggle of attrition and harassment against the British occupation forces. Leading a small, loyal band of Eritrean irregulars and some Italian soldiers, Guillet executed numerous raids, ambushes, and acts of sabotage. His objectives were to disrupt British supply lines, tie down their forces, and maintain a symbolic Italian presence of resistance. His ability to evade capture for such an extended period, often melting into the local population and moving secretly, further contributed to his mythical status among both his allies and his enemies. This phase of his life underscores his indomitable spirit and commitment, even in the face of inevitable defeat.

Beyond the Battlefield: A Diplomatic Legacy

Amedeo Guillet's life did not conclude with his military exploits. After successfully evading capture and returning to Italy in 1943, he transitioned from a celebrated warrior to a distinguished diplomat. His post-war career saw him serve Italy with honor as an ambassador in various strategically important countries, including Yemen, Jordan, Morocco, and notably, India. This second career highlighted his versatility, intelligence, and deep understanding of international relations, showcasing a man who could command cavalry with fierce courage and later navigate the delicate intricacies of global diplomacy. His long life was a testament to his adaptability and enduring service to his nation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Amedeo Guillet

Who was Amedeo Guillet?
Amedeo Guillet was an Italian Army officer (1909-2010) famed for being one of the last cavalry commanders in modern warfare and for his courageous leadership during the Italian guerrilla war in Ethiopia (1941-1943).
Why was he called the "Devil Commander"?
He earned the nickname "Comandante Diavolo" (Devil Commander) due to his extraordinary courage, audacious tactics, and willingness to lead daring cavalry charges against superior enemy forces, particularly during the East African Campaign of World War II.
What was Amedeo Guillet's role in the Italian guerrilla war in Ethiopia?
After the Italian defeat in East Africa in 1941, Guillet refused to surrender and instead led a two-year guerrilla campaign (1941-1943) in Ethiopia, conducting raids and ambushes against British occupation forces and maintaining Italian resistance.
What made Amedeo Guillet unique among military officers?
His uniqueness stems from his longevity (living to 101) and his status as one of the last military officers to effectively command cavalry in war, a form of warfare largely phased out by his time. He also had a distinguished diplomatic career after his military service.