The Armed Forces of Malta hosted a medal awarding ceremony at Luqa Barracks this morning where 109 officers, non-commissioned officers, soldiers and retired personnel were decorated with the Long and Efficient Service Medal or clasp.The AFM Commander, Brigadier J. Curmi addressed those present at the ceremony where he thanked all the personnel for their exceptional service and sacrifices over the years. Brigadier Curmi accentuated his pride for having such exemplary soldiers under his command.

The Minister for Home Affairs and National Security, Dr Emanuel Mallia decorated the soldiers with their respective medals and clasps and thanked them for their dedication and exemplary conduct.

Minister Mallia also thanked all those who helped in keeping up the outstanding name of the Armed Forces of Malta and promised the Government’s support to maintain the best possible working conditions with state of the art equipment whilst safeguarding all personnel.

Historically the Long and Efficient Service Medal was first presented to 253 officers and other ranks in 1992 having over 18 years of service and a clean conduct sheet. When a soldier has actually completed 18, 25 or 30 years reckonable service, the commanding officer decides whether or not to initiate a recommendation.

Only those soldiers who are in every way worthy of the distinction and whose conduct has been irreproachable throughout their service are in the end recommended.

This year, sixty-one members of the service were decorated with a clasp which is only awarded to those having served between 25 and 30 years while forty-eight members were decorated with the medal after having served for 18 years.

Permalink: AFM presentation of Long and Efficient Service Medals and Clasps