Colonel James Grech Appointed AFM Deputy Commander

The Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment, Byron Camilleri, has appointed Colonel James Grech as Deputy Commander of the Armed Forces of Malta.

Born in 1977, Colonel Grech studied at St Aloysius College in Birkirkara and currently leads the Operations, Plans and Intelligence Branch at AFM Headquarters. He joined the Armed Forces in 1999 and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 2000. Between 1999 and 2003, he trained at the German Naval Academy in Mürwik, participating in exercises aboard German naval vessels and completing various specialised courses.

Over his 26-year military career, Colonel Grech served extensively in the Maritime Squadron, commanding vessels P31, P52 and P61. He also led the Coastal, Inshore and Offshore Patrol Boat Commands and took part in naval exercises, search and rescue missions, and maritime security operations.

In 2011, he became Staff Officer within the Logistics Branch, contributing to fleet modernisation. He later completed the Naval Staff College in Venice and specialised in Regional Ocean Governance at the University of Malta.

In 2013, he was appointed Staff Officer for Maritime and Air, Plans and Operations. He also obtained an Advanced Diploma in Maritime Law from IMLI and lectures at the Maritime Safety and Security Training Centre.

Colonel Grech has received multiple decorations, including the Distinct Service Medal and the Long Efficient Service Medal. He represents the AFM on various maritime boards.

Minister Camilleri thanked Colonel Edric Zahra for his service and congratulated Colonel Grech on his appointment.