Choosing the rescuers

People in Sliema may this week have noticed an AFM/Italian Military Mission helicopter rescue team performing a rescue off the promenade.   It was part of a training regime which starts with a rigorous selection process to select the best people for the team. That selection process was under way in the past few weeks, with soldiers being tested for their physical and mental abilities under stress.     AFM rescuers are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week and operate from helicopters and patrol boats.   Candidates for the rescue team came from all sections of the Armed Forces of Malta, particularly from the Air Wing and the Maritime Squadron. The First Phase consisted of eight athletic challenges and working in a confined space.   Phase two was all about working in water, timed swimming and tests underwater. All pool events were conducted in a saline water environment under close supervision from instructors.   Candidates are currently undergoing interviews with the board in charge as part of character analysis.     Selected candidates will then follow months of arduous training to become rescuers.