Seventy-three new soldiers, including ten women, have officially joined the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) after taking the oath of allegiance during a passing out parade. The ceremony marked the completion of their training and their formal entry into military service, with the best recruit award presented to soldier Jeanelle Falzon.
The event was attended by Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment Byron Camilleri, who praised the significant progress made within the AFM in recent years. He noted that while investment in equipment for land, sea, and air operations continues, the most substantial commitment has been to improving the workforce.
Minister Camilleri said that new soldiers are entering a profession where personnel now enjoy union representation and the benefits of the first collective agreement, which has led to improved wages, working conditions, rights, and pensions. He also confirmed that negotiations aimed at further improving these conditions have reached an advanced stage.
He reminded the new recruits of the responsibility that comes with the uniform, emphasising the importance of discipline, loyalty to the Constitution and laws, and preserving the reputation of the Armed Forces.
Commander of the Armed Forces, Brigadier Clifton O'Neill, said that the AFM is proud to be seeing the results of its long-term investment. This recruitment cycle recorded not only a high number of applicants but also a record number of recruits completing the course. He expressed his hope that the AFM will continue to attract more young people to strengthen and renew the force.
The recruitment programme, which is held annually, involves approximately 19 weeks of physical and military training as an introduction to army life. Last year, 53 gunners completed the course. In addition to the latest cohort, 12 officer cadets are currently undergoing their training, with some based abroad.
Also present at the ceremony was Permanent Secretary Joyce Dimech, who joined dignitaries, family, and AFM officials in marking the milestone.