The island’s armed service is better equipped than ever to deal with natural disasters, Governor John Rankin said yesterday.  Mr Rankin added that the latest recruits to the RBR had joined an organisation that will play an increasingly vital role in humanitarian relief at home and in the wider region.

The island’s newest soldiers joined up today (SUN) for the first of this year’s two Recruit Camps.  A total of 25 men and women were issued their uniforms and kit as they prepare for a tough two weeks of new style basic training in Recruit Camp Alpha.

The island’s soldiers turned out in force at the weekend for the funeral of a comrade-in-arms killed in a bike crash. Corporal Ricardo Gibbs, who had served in the Royal Bermuda Regiment for more than 20 years, was buried after a military ceremony at the New Testament Church of God in Hamilton.

The commemoration of the 100^th anniversary of the end of the First World War ended tonight (SUN) with a beacon of hope lit at Government House.