65 New Faces Join AFM in Passing Out Parade

65 New Faces Join AFM: Passing Out Parade Marks Milestone

Malta’s St. John’s Co-Cathedral echoed with the resounding march of boots and the proud salutes of 65 new recruits as they graduated from the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) training programme. The Passing Out Parade, a time-honoured tradition, marked the culmination of their rigorous 12-week course, transforming civilians into disciplined soldiers ready to serve their country.

From Civilian Life to Military Discipline

The journey of these recruits began in April, when they bid farewell to their civilian lives and stepped into the structured world of the military. Their training, conducted at the AFM’s Hal Far Military Barracks, covered a wide range of skills, from combat techniques and weapons handling to navigation, first aid, and physical fitness. The recruits also underwent water safety and survival training at the AFM’s Diving Unit in Marsaxlokk.

For many, the most challenging aspect was not the physical demands but the mental resilience required to adapt to military life. “It was tough,” admits Private Joseph Galea, a 23-year-old from Birkirkara. “But every time I felt like giving up, I remembered why I joined – to serve my country and make my family proud.”

A New Chapter for the AFM

The graduation of these 65 recruits is not just a personal milestone but also a significant boost for the AFM. The force, responsible for Malta’s territorial and maritime security, has been expanding its capabilities to meet the evolving threats in the Mediterranean. These new recruits will play a crucial role in strengthening the AFM’s presence, both at home and on international operations.

AFM Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Ian Gauci, addressed the graduating recruits, “Today, you join a proud tradition of service. You are the future of the AFM, and we look forward to seeing the valuable contributions you will make to our force and our country.”

The Passing Out Parade was also attended by Maltese dignitaries, including the Minister for Home Affairs and National Security, who praised the recruits’ dedication and the AFM’s commitment to maintaining Malta’s security.