What is the AFM’s role? I remember after the national government kept the small army contingent under its control after independence, someone called them Ta’ Cirimella –“bag-pipe soldiers”. These soldiers were put on construction jobs, patrol boats, airport construction, and every other job you can think of, as well as being an emergency corps.
But they were not given soldiers’ training. In fact most of them would fire a rifle once and God knows when he will fire a rifle again.
How can we expect the AFM to efficiently carry out the role of Air Force, infantry and navy under one leadership, when each section has its own speciality in their duties and training and equipment?
The maritime section needs larger rescue vessels to withstand rough sea, and more training in SAR situation coordination. This section must be independent of the AFM leadership. The uniform and name must be changed from the overall command of the brigadier to a Naval commander and officers.
With all due respect, the interest and priority of each service is far from the country’s requirement.
 
Michael Neville Cassar
Valletta