AFM take in 64 new men

Malta has been asked to take part in overseas humanitarian and rescue operations and Maltese soldiers were being prepared for the task, the prime minister said yesterday.

Speaking during the passing out parade of 64 AFM recruits Eddie Fenech Adami told the new soldiers:

"You know your responsibilities. Prepare to do your duties as necessary."

Malta, he said, had a professional army and those joining it did so voluntarily.

"We are proud of our armed forces and of the fact that all soldiers sent on training abroad excel."

Dr Fenech Adami said that 850 applications had been received for the intake of soldiers who were passing out yesterday.

AFM commander Rupert Montanaro said a career in the AFM offered opportunities for those who persisted and worked hard. Levels and standards had gone up and soldiers were now being sent to follow courses overseas.

Brig. Montanaro said the armed forces would be receiving a new patrol boat from the US towards the end of the year.

The best recruits in each squadron were 86767 Recruit Laganan, 86744 Recruit Catania and 86717 Recruit Galea.

Yesterday`s ceremony was transferred indoors soon after it started because of the rain.