Private James Azzopradi has just completed the Combat Infantryman Course (CIC) at the Infantry Training Centre in Catterick.

The 26-week course builds up recruits’ skills and fitness bit by bit. In rough order, this involves learning individual skills first, followed by team/section skills and then platoon skills, ending with an assessment. During training, recruits are taught the importance of discipline, integrity, loyalty and respect for others. They learn that being a soldier is about putting others first and having the courage to do the right thing in any given situation.

Pte Azzopardi, who is 23, said: “I joined the Army because I have always wanted to join since I was young, my father served and my brother is currently serving in the Royal Gibraltar Regiment and I wanted to follow their footsteps. The course at Catterick was exactly what I expected. It’s tough in parts and it has its ups and downs and the weather is not really great, but the training team is there to make sure you get through it. They’re helpful and really patient. Both my parents are really happy for me, that after my well-deserved leave I can serve alongside my brother in Gibraltar and also look forward to progressing my career in the Regiment.”