Twenty cadets join the Rapid Reaction Force

Twenty army cadets - 18 men and two women - have successfully endured the Armed Forces of Malta's recruitment course to form part of the Rapid Reaction Force, from a field of more than 400 applicants.

The RRF cadets, a special team of Maltese soldiers trained for EU humanitarian missions, graduated at Luqa Barracks yesterday morning. Another eight army cadets were recruited by other companies.

They were greeted by relatives, army officers and Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi - the ceremony's guest of honour.

"I thank you for having chosen to join the military," the AFM Commander, Brigadier Carmel Vassallo, told them. "The army offers very interesting careers."

A total of 425 people applied to form part of the Rapid Reaction Force but only 20 remained eligible following written exams, medical and physical tests, as well as the arms training, drill and war tactics that followed. The recruitment process took more than three months.

Dr Gonzi expressed satisfaction that the Maltese army had successfully recruited a force to aid in humanitarian missions and said that their share in such missions would make the entire nation proud of its soldiers.

"There is a real need for people who can serve the country in this manner and your efforts are much appreciated," Dr Gonzi said.

The prime minister also mentioned the vital role played by the AFM in search and rescue missions, especially through the help of the Italian Military Mission in Malta.