The said knight was bestowed by the Italian Ambassador H.E. Carlo Marsili on behalf of Italian President H.E. Giorgio Napolitano during his courtesy visit to the Chairman of Turkish Aerospace Industries Inc. (TUSA?) Management Board.

In his speech delivered at his courtesy visit, H.E. Marsili said that Lt.Gen. (R) Atalay Efeer, Chairman of Turkish Aerospace Industries Inc. (TUSA?) Management Board, has had significant contribution in the development of relations between defense industry companies of two countries. He continued that he has the honor to present the Knight of the Order of the Star of Italian Solidarity to Efeer and his contributions for the establishment of cooperation between two countries with his proven expertise are really appreciated by the Italian government.

After graduating from NATO Defence College (Rome, 1988), Lt.Gen. (R) Atalay Efeer held a variety of appointments in Naples-Italy for five years.

Lt.Gen. (R) Atalay Efeer has completed more than 4500 flying hours on various types of fighter aircraft and has decorations and awards including the Superior Courage and Renunciation Medal and various service awards.