The latest Bermuda Regiment recruits, dubbed the “golden generation” as their boot camp coincides with the force’s 50th anniversary, are gearing up for their first time on the shooting range.

The rookie soldiers yesterday sat their weapons test — designed to ensure they handle Regiment rifles safely.

The new recruits are approaching the halfway point of the two week Recruit Camp, the first major event of the anniversary year.

Captain Chris Gauntlett, who is second in command of C Company, home to the new recruits, declared himself pleased with the soldiers’ progress.

“It’s going well,” he said. “Everyone is cracking on with their training and they’re all looking forward to shooting on the range.”

Capt Gauntlett said that upcoming events include a night exercise, with recruits under canvas on the south shore for the night, as well as sports competitions — which will count towards the points tally for the top platoon of the camp.

He added: “They know the competitions are coming and they’re getting very enthusiastic about the chance to do team sports. They all want to win.”