fighting force began yesterday as boot camp for the Bermuda Regiment's 1993 recruits opened at Warwick Camp.

Over the next two weeks, the 201 budding soldiers will be drilled in the finer points of military life -- from reveille at 6 a.m. until lights out at 11 p.m.

Capt. William Madeiros said it was one of their best years for keeping time, with the vast majority of the 201 conscripts reporting for duty before 8 a.m.

The few who dared to arrive late were quickly given their first taste of military discipline.

"We made a bit of an example of them,'' said Capt. Madeiros, who did not elaborate. "But we want to clearly establish that it's important for them to be in the right place at the right time.'' One "desperately late'' recruit, still dressed in his civilian clothes, was spotted jogging in place in Warwick Camp's court yard during The Royal Gazette's visit yesterday afternoon.

Regimental Police officers also "paid a visits'' yesterday to the residences of recruits who neglected to show up at all.

Capt. Madeiros said a spell in the Regiment benefits young Bermudians in many ways, by bringing out the natural leadership in some and catching a few who are in danger of drifting into a lifestyle of drugs and crime.

The Regiment can also mean "culture shock'' for some of the newcomers, because it is their first experience with genuine discipline.

Capt. Madeiros said the Regiment acts as "a leveller'' by giving soldiers from every walk of life the same chance at advancement. All awards are based solely on merit he said.

"We don't care who your father is ... we're all one colour here: green,'' Sgt. Major Sherwyn Richardson said. "We just want good soldiers.'' Each of the four platoons of recruits have a platoon commander, platoon sergeant and four section commanders to whip them into shape.

"They have to teach a lot in a small amount of time, and they do an excellent job of it,'' Capt. Madeiros said. "They've worked hard during evenings and over weekends to prepare.'' On their first day, instruction was given on subjects ranging from dressing correctly to standing properly -- at ease, easy and at attention -- to build a foundation for more advanced skills.

And until they learn to march, recruits are required to run everywhere -- walking is strictly forbidden in the Camp.

The next two weeks will be filled with intensive instruction on such topics as weaponry, camouflage and concealment, first aid, situation assessment and marching, marching, and yet more marching! Unlike the majority of their male counterparts who are required to serve, the 11 female recruits volunteered for their stint.

"They do every single thing the guys do,'' said Capt. Madeiros. "The only thing different is that they have their own barracks separate from the men.'' Tina Crane, 21, said: "I volunteered because it's a challenge and a great experience. I think I can handle being in the army for three years and two months.'' "I joined for the opportunities and the discipline, which I think I need,'' said 29-year-old Zina Minks, who also cited travel as an incentive. "I may do more than the three years.'' The soldiers will get a welcome break this Sunday, when they are given 12 hours leave.

They will be dismissed the following week after the Warwick Camp open house on January 23.

IN YOUR FACE! -- Regimental Police Corporal Bernard Woods expresses his displeasure to a recruit who was late for boot camp yesterday.