Generale di Brigata Aerea Marziale Cerutti began his military career in Field Artillery, but became a flying ace after his transfer to aviation service.

When Italy declared its armistice on 9 September 1943, Cerutti chose to continue service to Benito Mussolini.

On 26 June, he began advanced training on Farman reconnaissance two-seaters; on 11 September, on Caproni bombers.

[1] At the start of World War II, Cerutti was posted to the Headquarters of the Italian Armed Forces in North Africa.

When the Regia Nautica's loyalties were split by the 8 September 1943 Armistice between Italy and Allied armed forces, General Marziale Cerutti plumped for Benito Mussolini's faction and joined the Aeronautica Nazionale Repubblicana.

As a result of this decision, the end of World War II saw Cerutti removed from duty by the victorious Italian Co-Belligerent Air Force faction of the Regia Aeronautica.

While awaiting a review of his military status, Generale di Brigata Aerea Marziale Cerutti went for a ride on his home-built motorcycle on 26 May 1946.