On Sunday, the Armed Forces of Malta, for whom I am politically responsible as Parliamentary Secretary within the office of the Prime Minister, will be celebrating its 35th anniversary. Among other things, and in addition to the carrying out of their normal duties by the various units, an open day is being held for the public.

This is no ordinary celebration. What was born out of the remnants of the British Forces in Malta is now an elite 1,600+ force which caters for the country’s military needs, be they land, sea or air. The AFM’s success in carrying out these responsibilities is also our success. The armed forces are responsible for our territorial integrity as well as for the carrying out of all their other duties, which in other countries would be catered for by far greater numbers.

Notwithstanding our limitations, and the occurrence of unwanted episodes, they cope well because they are well prepared for almost any eventuality.

Unfortunately, we do not have the comfort – financially or otherwise – of having three distinct set-ups. However, one must admit that over the years, the disciplined force has taken on a new look – perhaps leaner than expected in number, but more efficient than its size might suggest.

When a soldier is on duty, there are no easy jobs. Punctuality and continual alertness are part of the job, and graduating to become a member of the armed forces proves this. During the latest graduation ceremony held recently, in the presence of the Prime Minister, we were informed that of an initial application list of 233, only 23 had survived the vigorous tests and training. These 23 graduated with honours.

There is currently another recruitment opening, and applications are being received up to the end of next week. This is necessary to upgrade our forces and compensate for those who retire on reaching 55 years of age or, should they so choose, after 25 years of service. After due vetting, the long road will begin for those who intend to take up this career.

There will be a physical test, a written examination and a final interview. Then the real work will start. The army in-house academy will put the recruits through their training. Not all of them will stay the course. Anyone who thinks that he or she is in for a joy ride will come out the loser. But those whose intentions are serious can, and will, make it. Eventually, through solid effort and perhaps some additional schooling, the individual can advance and make a successful career.

On Sunday, the Maltese public has the chance to come to the AFM’s headquarters at Luqa and see for themselves. They can visit the stands which illustrate the various and important tasks carried out without much ado by the Army. These tasks include some that we usually see and others which involve not only professional training but also a substantial degree of risk in their execution. In difficult times we call out the army – be it to deal with the effects of torrential rain, to dispose of a bomb, to cope with accidents other than road crashes, etc.

This is no advertisement for the Armed Forces of Malta, but it is good to remind people once in a while that there are those in the different disciplinary forces who are out there, looking over our shoulders to make sure that the law is upheld and that we can live in a relatively peaceful atmosphere. The AFM and the police force do this for us – all the time.

Anyone who thinks that the AFM is some kind of force training to make war is mistaken in a big way. We have a peaceful army, ready for the former but well-equipped to operate in everyday circumstances. The forces handle airport security, maritime patrols, duties on shore in various locations and when we have VIP visitors. They carry out bomb disposal, they monitor various activities which require investigation for various reasons, and they participate in so many other activities which are addressed in a subtle but effective way. Generally, their duties are performed efficiently and without fanfare.

Today, among the most important duties being carried out by the AFM are search and rescue (SAR) operations at sea, as well as the uncomfortable work of caring for and monitoring irregular immigrants – in both closed detention centres as well as (although in fewer numbers) in open centres. Some of the AFM personnel have now been seconded to the new detention centres, which should result in a more professional organisation operated jointly by the army and the police.

So if you are in the vicinity on Sunday, come and have a look around. Smart personnel will be on hand to explain to you and your children what is involved and who does what and how. I am sure that visiting the AFM HQ will be a positive family experience and will perhaps bring about a change in one’s view vis-à-vis the armed forces.

These are our forces. Let’s make them feel that way.

Tony Abela is Parliamentary Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister