AFM Open Day moves to Valletta Waterfront

The AFM will be holding its annual Open Day at Valletta Waterfront this Sunday, with particular focus being placed on the Maritime Squadron.

The Open Day is usually held at Luqa Barracks, but the change of venue this year will enable visitors to tour the AFM's patrol boats, including its flagship P-61, its long-serving workhorses P-23 and P-24 which are about to be paid off after nearly 40 years of service, and the more recent P-52.

Doors open at 11 a.m and visitors will be able to see exhibitions and displays by every section of the AFM, including the Air Wing, the infantry, the bomb disposal unit and support units.

There will be demonstrations by an AB 212 helicopter of the Italian Military Mission (Noon and 4 p.m.) followed by the rapid deployment team of the Maritime Squadron and a flypast by the Air Wing's Bulldog and Islander fixed wing aircraft.

The 1st Regiment will demonstrate gun drill at 1 p.m. while the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit of 3 Regiment will give its display at 2 p.m.

The AFM Band will march throughout the day and will Beat Retreat during a flag down ceremony at 5 p.m.

Concurrently, Valletta Waterfront patrons may visit the Carnival Experience situated within the bastions behind the promenade. It includes an eclectic and colourful display of carnival costumes, a photographic exhibition dating back to carnival editions of the late 1940s and an interactive demonstration showing how a carnival float is actually built from scratch.

Entrance to both events is free of charge. Parking will be available on the quays.