Some 40 new recruits were enlisted earlier this morning in the ranks of the Armed Forces of Malta, after a preliminary selection process of tests, which included physical, academic and medical exams plus an interview. These entry tests are aimed to achieve those set minimum requirements for enlistment, and which would in turn enable a good solid basis for the training standards to be met ahead.

This intake includes 3 Gozitan recruits, as well as 6 females, who together with the remainder of their peers will now undergo a Basic Military training Course, expected to last 18 weeks. The course programme incorporates the three main pillars for military discipline, physical training, foot and arms drill, and skill-at-arms with a variety of weapons. Other subjects relevant to complete a soldier with basic military skills are also covered, and these include military knowledge, basic first aid, basic swimming training, the Malta Armed Forces Act, aspects of the International Humanitarian Law, and land navigation.

Other covered skills, necessary throughout their future career and crucial for daily life include personal hygiene, husbandry of kit, uniform and equipment, as well as general types of administration. A living-in period at barracks during this phase is done. Its aim is for the recruits to get a sense of independence as well as try and accept self-responsibility.

A strict regime of inspections are done at every level, whilst the Directing Staff’s senior instructors and coordinators perform a monitoring scheme on all the recruits’ performances, checking that the required level of performance is maintained throughout. The AFM is an equal opportunity employer, and looks at the qualities of a person to determine where he or she is most suited to serve, so as to encourage and attain maximum potential from them.

The purposely assembled cadre of high level of Instructors come from the AFM’s various units, as well as from the recently established Training School of 4 Regiment AFM. After their Passing Out Parade, the recruits will be allocated to the AFM’s various units, where they will start their career, one which it is always hoped that it will flourish in professionalism, as shown already proudly elsewhere by all members of the Force.

Another 12 females recruits will be enlisted at the end of February, after a call for applications earlier this month saw 25 applications received. These female recruits will also follow the same Basic Military Training Course, and will afterwards serve at 1st Regiment’s "Alpha" (Airport Security) Company.

Photograph by Justin Gatt shows the AFM Training School staff calling out the names of recruits when they assembled at the Luqa Barracks main entrance.

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