Army's 1st Regiment flexes its muscles

Having been "defeated" by the European Parliament elections, which forced a delay of the event, the 1st Regiment of the Armed Forces of Malta has finally managed to hold its Sports Day.

This sporting event is usually held annually in mid-June to herald the summer season.

Soldiers from the regiment's six companies participated in activities that included a football knock-out competition, a five-kilometre run, a sack race, a three-legged race and a relay competition.

Other non-conventional events were also held, including a Pugil Stick competition involving two men fighting with padded sticks while standing on an elevated log.

Rivalry between the teams reigned high but the usual camaraderie, which binds fellow soldiers together, was restored in the barbecue held immediately afterwards which included an impromptu karaoke session to the amusement of one and all.

The Commander of the Armed Forces of Malta, Brigadier Carmel Vassallo, together with regiment commander Lt Col Raphael Farrugia complimented the competitors on the excellent results achieved and commended the organising committee for its endeavours.

The regiment's 524 men are distributed in six companies each of which perform different duties particularly airport security, key point protection, Palace and Parliament security and infantry heavy weapons support. Duties related to the Gozitan Troop and the EU Rapid Reaction Force also fall under the responsibility of this unit.

In winter the 1st Regiment assists the Civil Protection Department and the police in flood relief operations when required.

The regiment also provides accommodation and meals to about 160 third country nationals who have been granted freedom of movement.