Italian Police Visit Caldwell

More than two dozen representatives from Italy’s state police were welcomed with a reception at in Caldwell Thursday as part of a visit to the U.S. timed with Columbus Day.

In honor of their arrival, the Italian police were driven by members of the on three fire trucks from the Executive Inn in Fairfield to Calandra’s. The trucks were escorted by 30 officers from around the state on police motorcycles.

“This is the second year we drove them,” said Anthony Grenci, chief of the Caldwell Volunteer Fire Dept. “Being Italian, it is always a special feeling to help out in any way."

At Calandra’s, the police were greeted by an oompah band and treated to a  dinner and reception attended by members of Caldwell's governing body and other special guests. The evening was sponsored by the East Hanover Italian-American Club, organizers of the Morris County Columbus Day Parade.

As part of their stay, the Italian police marched in the Morris County parade on Sunday, attended the parade in New York City on Monday, and will have the opportunity to go sightseeing and shopping.