One hundred and twelve (112) courageous young men and women presented themselves yesterday morning as potential Marines of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, leaving behind the comforts of civilian life and loved ones faintly chanting well wishes from a distance. This historic cohort will comprise of twenty-five (25) females and one hundred (100) males by the end of the first week, forming the organizations New Entry 60/Woman Entry 29. For the next twenty (20) weeks, recruits will be absorbed in military culture under the guidance of qualified instructors, who will seek to target various components of their professional, academic and physical development. As training progresses, each recruit is expected to be transformed physically and mentally having developed the discipline, teamwork and leadership skills that will better equip them to carry out the mandate of the organization.Upon arrival at Coral Harbour Base, Captain Coral Harbour, Captain Glen McPhee addressed the group, stating his excitement for their future and career potential within the organization. He also expressed that their journey will not be an easy one, however if they steer the course, their training will challenge them to become their very best and prepare them for any section within the service. Upon completion of New Entry Training, this entry will assist in complementing crucial component areas of the organization’s decentralized operation efforts set forth by the Commander Defence Force, Commodore Raymond King. (RBDF photos by Able Seaman Michael Turner II)