From the archive
Royal Army of Oman Celebrates Passing Out of New Recruits
The Royal Army of Oman celebrated the passing out of a new batch of recruits after completing a rigorous training course at the SAF Training Battalion.
The Royal Army of Oman (RAO) today celebrated the passing out of a new batch of recruits in Muscat Governorate. The recruits completed a rigorous course at the Training Battalion of the Sultan’s Armed Forces (SAF), located within Muscat Governorate, preparing them for their future roles. The culmination of their intensive training was marked by a significant ceremony held under the auspices of Maj. Gen. Mattar Salim Al Balushi, Commander of the Royal Army of Oman, signifying their official entry into service. The event showed the Royal Army of Oman's ongoing commitment to enhancing its capabilities and welcoming new, well-trained personnel into its ranks.
Ceremony Notes
The ceremony commenced with a precise military salute extended to the chief guest, Maj. Gen. Mattar Salim Al Balushi, Commander of the Royal Army of Oman, setting a formal tone for the proceedings. Following this, Maj. Gen. Al Balushi proceeded to inspect the front row of the parade, meticulously observing the assembled recruits and their formation. This inspection noted the discipline and readiness of the graduating class. The new recruits then performed a military march characterized by slow motion, executed with impressive synchronization to the accompaniment of the Royal Army of Oman (RAO) band. This display showcased their command of ceremonial drill.
Subsequently, the columns of recruits executed a forward march while maintaining their precise parade formation, demonstrating the cohesion and training they had received. The new recruits also marched past the dais in a regular march, further demonstrating their training and military bearing to the dignitaries and attendees. Throughout the event, the RAO band presented various military martials and fanfare, contributing significantly to the solemn and celebratory ceremonial atmosphere. The band's musical contributions added a vibrant backdrop to the recruits' disciplined movements. The band concluded its performance by playing the Salute of Honour, a traditional gesture of respect and tribute.
Graduates' Pledges and Recognition
Maj. Gen. Mattar Salim Al Balushi, serving as the esteemed chief guest for the occasion, presented certificates to the graduates who achieved top ranks among the recruits, acknowledging their exceptional performance and dedication during the training period. This recognition served as an incentive for continued excellence. Following the presentation, the new graduates chanted the anthem of the Royal Army of Oman with powerful voices, a moment that resonated with pride and patriotism. They then performed the oath of allegiance, formally committing to their service and swearing loyalty to the nation and its leadership. This solemn vow marked a key moment in their induction. As part of their solemn declaration, the graduates proclaimed thrice, "Long live His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, the Supreme Commander—May the Almighty Allah protect him!" This declaration, echoing through the parade ground, marked the culmination of their training and their official induction into the Royal Army of Oman. The pledges showed their commitment to defending the Sultanate and upholding its values.
Attendees and Context
The ceremony drew a significant attendance, reflecting the importance of the event for the Royal Army of Oman and the broader community. Among the distinguished guests were senior officers from the Sultan’s Armed Forces (SAF), who witnessed the readiness of the new recruits. Non-commissioned officers and personnel of the Royal Army of Oman (RAO) were also present, offering support and welcome to their newest colleagues. A particularly touching aspect of the attendance was the presence of the parents of the graduates, who were there to witness the proud occasion of their children's induction into military service. Their presence added a personal dimension to the formal ceremony. Earlier, the new graduates chanted the anthem of the Royal Army of Oman and performed an oath of allegiance, formally committing to their service. As part of their solemn declaration, the graduates proclaimed thrice, "Long live His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, the Supreme Commander—May the Almighty Allah protect him!" This declaration marked their official induction into the Royal Army of Oman, solidifying their commitment to their country and its leader.