An advance guard of soldiers have left Bermuda for Camp Lejeune to finalise preparations for the Bermuda Regiment’s annual training exercise in North Carolina.

Around 160 soldiers will leave for Exercise Island Warrior at the state-of-the-art US Marine Corps venue on Sunday.

Regiment Training Officer Major Martin Wyer said: “An exercise like this requires considerable planning and we all want to make the most of it.

“The advance party will make sure all the equipment we need is in place and prepare the training areas, as well as organise accommodation and vehicles.”

The exercise is designed to make sure the island’s troops are trained to the highest standards of military skills and tactics. It includes a three-day intensive field training exercise in a realistic urban environment.

Maj Wyer added: “The facilities and opportunities available at Camp Lejeune are among the best in the world and we aim to take full advantage.

“The Regiment operates to standards in line with the UK and Canada, some of the best in the world and this facility will ensure our soldiers are at the peak of professionalism.”

Two firefighters will accompany the contingent with a medic from St John’s Ambulance Brigade in addition to Support Company soldiers, including signallers, engineers and Regimental Police.

The Boat Troop and a member of the Bermuda Police Reserve Marine Section will also train with the US Coast Guard.

Commanding Officer Lt Col Brian Gonsalves said: “As we are largely a part-time force — we maintain a full-time attitude and standard.

“Our soldiers appreciate and take full advantage of the superior training facilities at Camp Lejeune together with the opportunity of meeting many Marines who have developed years of war fighting experience, and that type of exposure is priceless.

“Whatever, we’re called to do, whether at home or abroad, I’m confident our soldiers will be ready, trained and equipped to the highest standards.”