34 AFM soldiers of varying rank were presented with medals during a ceremony held at the Luqa barracks.

The soldiers were were decorated either a medal for long and efficient service or a clasp for 25 or 30 years of service.

Home Affairs Minister Carmelo Abela said that these AFM soldiers serve as a model for their colleagues and for those youths who want to join the AFM.

He said that he is proud of the talent within the AFM who, through their commitment, result in success stories, "stories that make any soldier serving in the army proud".

The minister said that the dedication and loyalty of Maltese soldiers is again being placed under a lens, and is being noted by foreign dignitaries.

He said that the army is offering protection for all high level meetings taking place in Malta. He also noted that through collaboration with the police and the civil protection department, strategic areas around Malta, including the airport, are under tight surveillance. 

The minister added that the soldier's allowance package doubled over a year ago, and said that over the past year, 1,600 soldiers ranked up to major, saw a €347.50 increase per year in their financial package.