During the First War of Italian Independence, he served as Chief of Staff of the Reserve Division, led by Crown Prince Vittorio Emanuele, beginning a close friendship with the future King; having distinguished himself at Goito, he was decorated with the Silver Medal of Military Valor. Promoted to Major General, Della Rocca commanded a brigade in the Battle of Novara. After the defeat, he was appointed Minister of War (from 29 March to 7 September 1849) under Massimo d'Azeglio.