Forty-five members of the Regiment are off to spend eight days in Canada.

The soldiers are travelling to Meadford, Ontario, where they will be tested for strength but also "their ability to lead other men, be taught under pressure and will develop character," said Lt. Col. Eddie Lamb after seeing the men off at the Airport yesterday.

The trip brings the culmination of six months of training for the soldiers who volunteered and went beyond mandatory service. If they pass this last set of tests they will receive their first stripe and the position of Lance Corporal, said Lt. Col. Lamb, the Regiment commanding officer.

"These men are going to be severely tested in all things military," he said.

Minister of Labour Terry Lister spoke to the men before they left.

"These men want to serve with distinction for their three years and they have decided to move up the ranks because they enjoy the Regiment," Mr. Lister said.

"The Regiment better prepares young Bermudians who do not attend college for jobs because they learn leadership skills. Bermuda wins by sending men to the Regiment."