The AFM this morning welcomed 91 recruits including eight women, will embark on a 12-week recruitment training course.

They were selected from over 360 applicants after a selection and filtering process consisting of a physical fitness assessment, a motivational interview and a medical examination.

Soon after a brief presentation by AFM officers, they took their oath of allegiance to the people and the State of Malta and its Constitution this morning.

The Training School within 4 Regiment runs all basic recruitment courses. It has a resident core team of instructors that is supplemented by additional instructors from the rest of the force. Recruits are required to exceed minimum standards set at out at four or five week intervals in the three main pillars of basic soldiering, namely physical training, skill-at-arms and drill. Recruits are subjected to a rigorous physical training regime to prepare them for the demands of military life.

All recruits are also required to adhere to strict rules of hygiene and order-of-dress. They will be extensively trained in weapon handling skills, marksmanship and ceremonial drill, first aid and map reading. This training will be complimented by in the classroom with Military Law, International Humanitarian Law, Military Ethos, Radio Voice Procedure and other various life skills. Once the recruits achieve the required standards they will be called on to perform the formal Passing-Out Parade which will crown their transition from civilian to soldier. Ultimately, they will be posted to the various units of the AFM according to the exigencies of the Service whether on land at sea or in the air.

An ongoing call for the enlistment of Officer Cadets, Soldiers, Soldier Athletes and Bandsmen is currently underway. For More information on the current call can be accessed on www.afm.gov.mt