81 new recruits join the army

The Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) has opened its doors to 81 new recruits, including ten females, 11 officer cadets and 11 recruits from Gozo, among others.

The newly enlisted servicemen and women reported to Luqa Barracks gate at 07.00 am on Monday 18th April 2016 after having successfully completed the selection process, which consisted of a physical fitness and written assessment, an interview and a complete medical examination.

As their first day in their army carriers, the recruits and officer cadets took an oath of allegiance to the People and the Republic of Malta and its Constitution. 

During the upcoming weeks, the recruits and officer cadets will be given the necessary tools to be successful in their military careers.

According to a statement by the home affairs ministry, during this period the young trainees will be expected to break away from their civilian lives through the basics of soldiering, namely physical training, skill-at-arms and drill, amongst others.

Over the coming weeks, the Training School team within the 4 Regiment will test the recruits’ moral character, team qualities, motivation, leadership and determination. All recruits will also be required to adhere to strict rules of hygiene and order-of-dress. Recruits will also be extensively trained in weapon handling skills, marksmanship, ceremonial drill, first aid, map reading and various other subjects, including military law, international humanitarian law, military ethos, radio voice procedure and various other life skills will also be taught.

The statement adds that once the recruits achieve the required standards, they will be called on to perform the formal Passing-Out Parade, which will mark their transition from civilian to soldier. 

They will later be posted to the various units of the AFM according to the exigencies of the Service whether on land, at sea or in the air.

The statement adds that officer cadets, on the other hand, will be travelling overseas to participate in initial officer formation courses with some of the world’s best foreign militaries, such as the British Army and the Irish Defence Forces.