Many Italian soldiers carried out remarkable military actions during the two world wars, earning recognition even beyond the borders of Italy. However, there are many others whose incredible feats remain largely unknown—Salvatore Todaro is one such figure.  

Born in Messina in 1908, Todaro was the son of a non-commissioned officer in the Royal Italian Army. Following in his father’s footsteps, he enrolled in the Italian Naval Academy at just 15 years old. He first became a Sub-Lieutenant and later completed aerial observation training. On July 1, 1940, he achieved the rank of Corvette Captain, taking command first of the submarine *Luciano Manara* and later of the *Comandante Cappellini*.  

As World War II progressed, Todaro reached the German naval base in Bordeaux, known as BETASOM. From there, he participated in what historians refer to as the "Battle of the Atlantic"—a campaign in which submarines were deployed to disrupt supply convoys bound for Britain and the United States. 

It was during one of these missions that Todaro's legend was born. On the night of October 15, 1940, at 11:25 PM, his submarine engaged in a grueling battle and ultimately sank an enemy steamship while surfaced. However, instead of following strict wartime protocol, Todaro made an extraordinary decision: he approached the wreckage, spotted survivors, and, defying orders, chose to tow them to safety, saving them from certain death. He brought them to port in the Azores, ensuring their survival.  

Later, Todaro joined the Xª MAS and took command of the armed fishing vessel Cefalo. On the night of December 13–14, 1942, while returning from an attack on the port of Bona (Algeria), an English Spitfire, flying at low altitude, struck the Cefalo. A stray fragment pierced the metal hull and fatally wounded Todaro in his cabin, killing him instantly. His death was mourned not only by his crew but also by his wife and two children.  

In addition to numerous military honors, Salvatore Todaro was posthumously awarded the Gold Medal for Military Valor, the highest decoration a soldier could receive.