Bermuda’s newest soldiers will tomorrow reach the halfway mark of their two-week recruit camp.

The annual intake started with the 45 new recruits being given a demonstration of the firepower in the regiment’s arsenal.

Walter Roban, the Deputy Premier, Wayne Caines, the Minister of National Security, and John Rankin, the Governor, paid a visit to Warwick Camp earlier in the week as the troops got to grips with military life and equipment.

Mr Rankin said regiment service was an investment for the recruits and for the organisations and businesses from which they came.

He added: “These men and women will learn new skills across a variety of fields and they will develop their leadership qualities. A number of employers on the island have already communicated to me how much they welcome the fact that their staff can get that training here and deliver it back in the businesses they operate — and at no cost to them.”

Mr Rankin said: “Service in the regiment will develop life skills that will stand these young people in good stead in the future.

“I was struck both by their commitment and by the sense of comradeship that they are beginning to develop. I look forward to attending their passing-out parade.”

Trainee soldiers also learnt how to take apart and rebuild the RBR’s SA-80 rifles before their first time on the shooting range.

They also battled to master drill moves on the parade ground, camouflage and concealment

The recruits were scheduled to be issued their ceremonial kit today and take part in a drill competition before they take leave tomorrow.