They are in charge of the all-male 42 Platoon Echo Company 1st Recruit Training Battalion that are mid-way through their intensive training course.

The youngest in their group is just 17, the oldest is 55 years and all will undergo training seven days a week from dawn until past dusk to ensure they are ready.

“A lot of young ones join to see Australia, to make new mates and to give them career options,” Platoon Commander McMurdo said.

During the five-week course, discipline, drills, weapons, tactics, navigation and first-aid will be among a host of new skills the reservists will learn.

Platoon Commander McMurdo said there is a marked difference in the reservists following their training.

“We’ve taught them how to back themselves. Given them self confidence … they’ll stand up straight and look you in the eye,” he said.

Platoon Sergeant Rachow said: “On march out day I’m so proud [of them].”