Twenty-eight AFM personnel were yesterday awarded certificates and qualification badges to mark the successful completion of intensive training in combat medicine.

All the soldiers, now internationally certified as combat life-savers, followed training that started last November and was conducted by personnel from the Italian Red Cross (IRC).

In a short address preceding the certificate-giving ceremony that was held at the Luqa barracks, AFM commander Brigadier Carmel Vassallo congratulated the soldiers for having achieved high standards during the training course held last November.

The training included sessions on military first aid, combat life-saving and combat medic skills.

The second phase that ended just recently included refresher training, exams and a week of hands-on experience at St Luke’s Hospital under the supervision of AFM medical officers.

The soldiers that underwent training also participated in sessions on mission planning, advanced life support, emergency childbirth and medical standing orders.

Brigadier Vassallo expressed his gratitude for the support provided by the Malta Red Cross, particularly the Gozo branch, and the Italian Military Mission.

Italian Ambassador Paolo Andrea Trabalza thanked the IRC and Italian Military Mission for their excellent efforts. He highlighted the significance of this joint venture in particular, given the closeness of Malta and Italy both geographically and culturally.

The commanding officer of the Italian Military Mission, Colonel Giovanni Ormetti said that more such training is planned for March; this will keep the new combat medics abreast with new regulations in the field.

Brigadier Vassallo explained that such training is not only intended to standardise military combat medical procedures and equipment within the AFM, but it also proves to be a necessary tool for the army’s mission when it needs to support the Civil Protection Department and other governmental agencies during urgent situations.