The 17th Parachute Engineer Regiment (17e RGP) has announced the death of its much-loved mascot, Malizia, a majestic sea eagle gifted to the regiment in 2016 by Princess Caroline of Hanover, its official patron. The raptor, described as a “true figure of cohesion”, passed away on Sunday from pancreatitis, leaving what the regiment called “an indelible mark in the history of the 17th”.
Malizia was a female American fisher eagle, born in 2015, who became the only eagle mascot of a European military regiment. She succeeded Bac-Kan, the regiment’s previous bird, who died in 2013 after 15 years of service. Her name paid homage to Francesco Grimaldi, known as Il Malizia, who famously captured Monaco’s fortress in 1297 by disguising himself as a Franciscan monk.
The choice of her breed reflected the American heritage of Princess Grace, mother of Princess Caroline, who has been the regiment’s godmother since 2011. Under the care of her handler, Corporal-Chef Fabien, Malizia became an enduring presence at military ceremonies, open days and official events, embodying the pride, agility and audacity of the parachute engineers.
malizia’s ties with monaco
In February this year, Malizia stole the show during the Changing of the Guard at the Palais Princier de Monaco, joining members of the French contingent in a rare ceremonial appearance. The event highlighted her symbolic link to the Principality, and the strong bond between Monaco and the regiment in Montauban.
a tribute to her service
In their tribute, the regiment described Malizia as a “living symbol” who represented a point of unity for soldiers, their families and the wider community of Montauban. “Malizia leaves an indelible mark in the history of the 17th”, the regiment posted on Facebook, while offering special thanks to Corporal-Chef Fabien for his “exemplary dedication” in caring for her. A worthy successor, they confirmed, will be chosen to continue the tradition.
the regiment’s enduring legacy
The 17th Parachute Engineer Regiment plays a critical role within the French armed forces. Its elite sappers, trained to parachute into some of the most challenging environments, specialise in restoring airstrips, constructing infrastructure and supporting combat operations. Since its first airborne mission during Operation Castor at Dien Bien Phu in 1953, the regiment has been deployed on numerous international operations, including in Mali as part of Operation Serval.
While Malizia’s death marks the end of a chapter, her presence will remain an unforgettable symbol of the regiment’s strength, resilience and enduring connection with Monaco.
See also:
Eagle named in honour of Monaco’s dynastic founder joins Changing of the Guard
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Main photo source: 17e RGM