With debate raging over the controversial policy of conscripting men into the Regiment, Governor Sir Richard Gozney last week called for more efforts to attract women volunteers.

Despite an advertising campaign last year, just two women signed up one more than the year before. On Sunday morning, however, five young women were among the 160 or so soldiers-to-be pouring through the gates of Warwick Camp for Recruit Camp 2009. For the next two weeks they'll join their male counterparts in 18-hour days, learning skills including weapons handling, live firing, drill and physical fitness.

According to the Regiment, the female soldiers will be treated the same as the men, apart from being housed separately. Here, the new recruits and one from last year explain why they signed up for the challenge.

Chloe Lambert, 22, from Hamilton Parish, aspires to become a barrister and politician. She is currently enrolled in the Bermuda College's University of Kent law programme.

"I wanted the opportunity to be exposed to an environment where there are men and to have an understanding of the men's world to become a stronger female. I want to serve this country with pride, as most people don't take pride in the country. I want to go into politics and I think this will help mould me and make me a better lawyer, a better woman and a better political leader for this country. This will either make me or break me but nothing is bad. It's all positive and will help me in future regardless."

Lekeisha Davis, 21, from St. George's, joined up along with her cousin Tyneisha O'Connor. She's currently studying for her GED at the Adult Education Centre.

"Ever since I was in cadets for two years I wanted to do it. I'm here for a change, for the experience and to make me stronger. I just wanted to change my life around, to get more knowledge and everything the army has to give. It's going to be challenging no matter what, but it's cool doing it with my cousin. I would say to other women 'join up, it's a good experience, a life change and an eye-opener. It makes you notice stuff you think you're not able to do'."

Ashley Simons, 19, from Sandys, will soon begin studying for her GED and wants to go to culinary school.

"I've wanted to do it since I was young for the discipline, and I want to be treated the same as the guys. I want to be respected with everybody else. I love fitness and stuff, I like to keep active, it's fun for me for some odd reason. The biggest challenge is going to be waking up at 5 a.m. but I'm looking forward to the different exercises and activities we're going to have to do."

Tyneisha O'Connor, 18, from St. David's, is a student at the Adult Education School.

"I did cadets for three years. I finished off as a Lance Corporal and I wanted to join up then, but I got involved with the Bermuda Sloop and I've been sailing ever since I got out of cadets. I think the biggest challenge will be getting used to being around a bunch of guys. I'm used to waking up early because I sail, and fitness isn't really a problem for me because I run. I'm hoping I learn a little bit more discipline for myself, and more independence."

Selah Murrell, 24, works as a part-time nail technician and plans to study hospitality at college. She hopes to make the Regiment her future career.

"One, I joined for routine, two, for physical fitness and thirdly because I was a cadet and it drew me back. It's something positive and constructive. I could see life values and promotion. Today was a surprise, the fact that I was literally on time and they were saying I was late. But it was really good too. I just had surgery so I think the biggest challenge for me will be running long distance. Also, I think the main challenge was cutting my hair, which was really long, it was down to my stomach. Your bun has to be above your collar and fit with the head dress. I didn't mind cutting it, it grows back, but I brought it in a bag because I want to prove I cut my hair so they don't think I'm taking any more off."

Lance Corporal Marquisha Douglas, 29, a Post Office administrative assistant from Pembroke, joined the Regiment a year ago. Now she's looking after this year's new females.

"I decided to join because I was in cadets for a year so this was a step up for me, to further my experience and military knowledge. I've enjoyed it very much. I've matured a lot and deal with talking to people a lot better now.

"Last year there was just one other lady and I was a little nervous, making sure I do everything and don't fall back. But Recruit Camp was nice, a good experience. It was good getting to know everybody in my platoon. They became like my brothers and sisters, like family. It would be great to have more women volunteers.

"Sooner or later we'll be able to have our own platoon to compete against the guys and show them up."