2020: SAF YEAR IN REVIEW
While many may be glad to say goodbye to 2020, there has been some bright spots in this rollercoaster of a year. PIONEER takes a look back at positive and uplifting MINDEF/SAF stories as Singapore soldiers trudge on through the COVID-19 pandemic.United in the COVID-19 fight
Thousands of personnel from the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) answered the call of duty in joining national efforts to combat the virus.
From contact tracing and mask distribution to setting up facilities and providing testing and medical care, the defence community took up critical roles behind the scenes as well as on the front-lines to curb the COVID-19 outbreak and save lives.
Heartwarming appreciation: Mr Naresh Palla, a migrant worker from India, expressed his gratitude in a letter of thanks to the medical and management teams at the Changi Exhibition Centre Community Care Facility for providing accommodation and medical care.
Adapting to the new normal
Even as servicemen and women stepped up to contribute in COVID-19 operations, the SAF did not compromise on security operations.
In the midst of the pandemic, units continued to perform critical operations – such as island defence, maritime security, air defence and counter-terrorism – to safeguard Singapore.
Both local and overseas training have also gradually resumed, with strict safety measures in place, as Singapore and countries across the globe adapted to the new normal.
This year, special arrangements were also made for a one-of-a-kind National Day Parade, bringing the celebrations closer to home for all Singaporeans
This year's NDP forged ahead by bringing celebrations closer to home – from the mobile column (next photo) to an F-15SG flypast paying tribute to front-line workers (third photo), to firework displays (last photo) across the heartlands.
Reaching new heights
These inspirational servicemen and women showed that you can achieve your dreams through tenacity and a can-do spirit.
