US Naval 6th Fleet Headquarters are located just a few miles from the famous Mt. Vesuvius in Capodichino, Italy.
The relationship between the United States and Italy dates back all the way back to 1840 when Italy was known as the Kingdom of Sardinia.
After World War II, Italy became a strong and active transatlantic partner and has sought to foster democratic ideals and international cooperation in areas of strife and civil conflict. Toward this end, the Italian government has cooperated with the United States in the formulation of defense, security, and peacekeeping policies. Under longstanding bilateral agreements flowing from NATO membership, Italy hosts important U.S. military forces at Vicenza and Livorno (army); Aviano (air force); and Sigonella, Gaeta, and Naples' home port for the U.S. Navy SIXTH Fleet. The United States has about 11,500 military personnel stationed in Italy.
Italy is a charter member of NATO and the European Economic Community (EEC) and its subsequent successors the EC and the EU. It has been at the forefront of European economic and political unification, joining the Economic and Monetary Union in 1999. The U.S. and Italy cooperate in various regional organizations, and bilaterally for peace, prosperity, and security.
According to a Pew Research global opinion poll, Italy is one of the most pro-American nations in the world, with 70% of Italians viewing the U.S. favorably in 2002, increasing to 78% in 2014.
CIA World Factbook - Italy