People yesterday got a glimpse of army life during an open day at the Luqa barracks.

The event was held as part of the Armed Forces of Malta’s 42nd anniversary since the transition from the Royal Malta Artillery.

Anniversary celebrations began on October 3 with Mass at St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta celebrated by the Archbishop and led by the President, while yesterday­ the five regiments displayed specialist skills and tasks, such as explosive ordnance disposal.

Army personnel provided detailed explanations and guided people around static displays, including a weapons stand, as anti-aircraft gun-firing drills echoed across the barracks.

These were complemented with gun ceremonial drills by the Air Defence and Fire Support Company.

Other highlights of the open day included dynamic displays with explosives and ordnance demonstrations, including the recovery of a World War II air-dropped bomb.

And for the first time in recent history, the AFM’s Astra Cinema was opened to the public. In collaboration with Cinema Heritage Group and Filmed in Malta, the AFM held exhibitions and discussions while showcasing images and footage related to cinema heritage and the military.

The Medical Branch was also at the barracks, giving visitors the opportunity to have their blood pressure and blood glucose levels measured, while the Emergency Response and Rescue Corps demonstrated CPR techniques.