The Armed Forces of Malta barracks in Luqa will open the doors to the public next Sunday from 10am for an open day, an event which in the past attracted hundreds of people.

This is an opportunity for members of the public to interact with AFM officials while observing equipment used as well as the capabilities of those in service. The participating AFM units will be able to offer a hands-on experience by means of operational displays throughout the day and a number of stands with information material.

Children will be able to enjoy rides on board military vehicles, an assaulting course and a rock-climbing wall. Another special attraction will be the AFM’s Explosives’ Ordinance Disposal’s robot display, a remotely-operated vehicle on tracks utilised to investigate and defuse a suspect bomb package. Parents and children alike will also have the opportunity to take part in a marching drill session together with a number of recent AFM recruits.

The Air Wing’s Alouette helicopter, and the Italian Military Mission (MIATM) helicopter – AB 212, as well as the AFM band and Drill Team will also be carrying out displays.

This activity will be marking the 35th anniversary of MIATM’s establishment in Malta. The Italian Chief of Staff, General Vincenzo Camporini will be present to honour this occasion.

AFM is also holding an art and crafts exhibition of around 70 works by army officials as well as retired members of the army and will include paintings, models, and pieces of silverware from the AFM’s Officers’ Mess. This exhibition, at the Luqa Barracks main gymnasium, will reveal the soldiers’ artistic bent through a number of different media. The Six Soldier Artists, a group of former ex-Servicemen including two former AFM Commanders, will be participating.

One of the various stands set up for the occasion will be welcoming those wishing to enlist as soldiers or officer cadets with AFM. Around 100 new recruits are needed because the army is currently under strength due to a number of officials who retire every year after having served 25 years, in addition to those who choose to pursue career change and job mobility.

The open day will be an opportunity for prospective officials to meet army servicemen who will be ready to answer questions.

Applications will be received on Sunday and subsequent days.

The National Blood Bank will be present at the AFM Medical Centre on site to receive blood donations from members of the public. For this reason, visitors are advised to carry their identity cards.

Refreshments will be available from the staff canteen while adequate parking space for visitors will be made available at the old Luqa airport close to the AFM Barracks.