FIBS NEWS DIRECT: TUESDAY, 04 FEBRUARY 2002
SATURDAY, A TASTE OF DEFENCE FORCE LIFE:
By Corina Goss (FIBS)
It’s recruiting time again for the FIDF. They are holding a "Join for a Day" event this Saturday, with many different activities planned as Commander Peter Biggs (PB) explains.
PB: Join for a Day is intended as an opportunity for members of the public, both potential recruits and those who only wish to know more about the FIDF to take pare in some of our training activities. The day will start at 0830 at the FIDF HQ. There will be a 10 minute brief on the proceeding day, Friday, the 7th at 1730 to get a quick picture of what will happen during the day and what clothing, etc. those taking part should wear.
On the Join a Day, lunch will be provided and it may be advisable to bring a day-pack with something to drink, though tea and coffee will be available at various points throughout the day.
CG: So, what sorts of things can people expect to do on Saturday?
PB: The activities on the Saturday will include firing some of the FIDF weapons, rock climbing and ab sailing, command tasks and there will be a firepower demonstration and we may throw in a few other things as well. It is intended that those taking part will have an enjoyable experience and there is no pressure to take part in any activity if people have reservations about doing so.
Join for a Day is, of course, linked to our current recruiting campaign. There is an opportunity for potential recruits to have an introduction to the FIDF. However, even if you are joining, there is no obligation to do the Join for a Day if you have something else arranged for that day. While I have this opportunity, I would just like to mention the recruiting campaign in a bit more detail. The first training sessions for recruits is Thursday, the 13th of February at 1900.
Those people that have made enquiries about joining will receive joining paperwork shortly, if they have not already done so. Being a member of the FIDF is both challenging and rewarding and gives some very unique opportunities.
While I emphasise the rewarding aspects of being a member, I must mention that the FIDF also has a very serious purpose in providing an infantry force of volunteers to assist in the defence of the Falkland Islands. And, those who join can take some satisfaction from knowing that they are making a direct contribution to the defence of the Islands. The FIDF also plays an active part in protecting the Falklands Fisheries.
We are still looking for recruits so if anybody out there is interested, then they should contact me on telephone 27477 during office hours or at home on 21068. Alternatively they can contact any member of the FIDF and they will pass on your message.
CG: Are there any restrictions, for example, age restrictions?
PB: The general age constraint is that people have to be 18 years of age when they join or otherwise they have to be 16 and a half when they actually sign on but they have to have parental consent.
CG: Now, what’s the situation with people with previous Military experience? Do they have to do the full recruitment?
PB: There are various opportunities for joining the FIDF. Recruits without previous Military experience are required to do an initial training course that this year will run from the 15th of February to the 7th of June. Anyone joining with previous Military experience may qualify for a shorter course. In that, they will only have to do the basic military skills that are peculiar to the FIDF – the weapons system, etc. So, they shall have a shorter course if they so wish. However, we encourage everybody joining to do the full course because it helps them to integrate with the Force better.
The FIDF also has a reserve membership. Members of the FIDF reserve are only expected to do a limited amount of the essential training throughout the year. Generally, their role requires less commitment than that of the active members. In order to qualify as a reserve member, one must have sufficient Military experience, either with the regular forces or with the FIDF. And, if there is anyone out there interested in becoming a reserve member, that has the necessary Military experience, then, please get in touch as soon as possible.
CG: Major Peter Biggs says he’s had around 12 people express an interest in joining so far but emphasises that they are hoping for as many new recruits as possible.
