By Corporal Joseph Lewis
Headquarters, Jamaica Defence Force

On Fri 28 Oct 11 25 new members of the Basic Physical Training Instructors Course were added to the department of the Force Physical Education and Training Wing after successfully completing a grueling 10 weeks.

The course which began with 28 personnel comprised subject areas of Anatomy and Physiology, Exercise Physiology, Map Reading, Sport Officiating, Principles of Instructions, Trained Soldier Physical Training, Unarm Combat and Agility Training and for the first time qualified all graduates as First Aiders.

Colonel Desmond Edwards, the Reviewing Officer, indicated that it was very important for all soldiers to maintain a certain level of fitness as fitness is the key to good soldiering, and added that "this course could not have come at a better time".

The Basic Physical Training Instructors Course not only aims to train personnel to become physically robust as PTIs but for the trainees to meet the mandate of being 'fit to fight'.

At the end of the course both Lance Corporal Richard BARRETT and Lance Corporal Elgie Ricketts were given the Academic and Most Outstanding Student Awards respectively for their outstanding performances.

All 25 graduates wowed the Reviewing Officer and other specially invited guests by treating them to breathtaking displays after the graduation Ceremony.