Reservists of the Armed Forces of Malta have concluded their annual camp at Pembroke Ranges, St. Andrews this weekend, ending a five-month long military training programme of tuition they have been receiving throughout the year.

During this week long camp, the reservists put to practice the skills acquired during their hours of military training in these last months, through military exercises and manoeuvres out in the field.

The AFM's Emergency Volunteer Reserve Force (EVRF) forms part of 1st Regiment's Air Defence and Support Company (ADSC). It was set-up in 1998, with the primary aim of being able to perform a range of roles and of relieving or reinforcing the AFM’s Regular Force in an emergency.

Some 20 newcomers were enlisted into the EVRF earlier this year. They have followed the initial indoctrination of standard basic military training topics, such as foot and arms drill, basic battle skills, map-reading and field craft.

Their training is aimed at instilling discipline and collective cohesion in the troops, preparing them to be tough when facing difficult situations.

Senior reservists continued to hone their light air defence artillery roles and duties. The core element of these senior reservists also dedicated time to the various aspects of fighting in built up areas, which is typical to engagements on urban terrain.

Some senior veteran reservists already hold Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) rank, and they help in mentoring these more junior reservists.