AFM open day at Luqa barracks

Standing under a hot October sun at the Armed Forces of Malta barracks in Luqa yesterday, a boy waited for his turn to fire blanks from a real rifle.

Other children were given the opportunity to abseil down a low building inside the premises or take a ride on military vehicles, while their families watched members of the Special Duties Company "assault an enemy" during a demonstration.

The barracks in Luqa were opened to the public from 10 a.m. till 6 p.m. yesterday. All the regiments of the Armed Forces took part in an activity where families were allowed to speak to officials and walk around the premises where equipment, including weapons, ammunition, vehicles, heavy plant and even helicopters, were exhibited.

Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi also paid a visit to the barracks. Lieutenant Colonel Mario Schembri said the open day was an opportunity for the public to meet the soldiers and to appreciate the commitment there was behind their diverse tasks.

"It's not just a job for us," he said.

Col Schembri said another aim of the open day was recruitment. "Such occasions help people get acquainted with us, especially young people who wish to join the army one day."

The most recent batch of recruits have joined the Special Duties Company, a section of the First Regiment that is training for humanitarian missions with European Union forces.

"We need people who are motivated and determined. Sometimes we have drop-outs from this company because recruits' experience turns out to be different from what they had expected, often influenced by films and photos," he said.

The AFM's full complement, that has not been reached, is around 2,000, counting soldiers and officials from all ranks and regiments.