A CALLING LIKE NO OTHER

Officer Cadet (OCT) Nicholas Tay from the Republic of Singapore Air Force firmly believes that there can be no higher calling than the defence of one's nation.

The SAF Overseas Scholarship (SAFOS) recipient, who will be heading to the London School of Economics and Political Science to read International Relations and History, said he decided on a military career as he felt an immense pride for the country and this was one way in which he could do his part to protect it.

"Defence is the main responsibility of the SAF and I believe that every Singaporean deserves to feel a sense of security and not have to think twice about their safety," OCT Tay told cyberpioneer.

OCT Tay was one of the six SAFOS recipients who received their ceremonial swords and certificates from Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean at the Istana on 11 Aug.

The SAFOS is second only to the President's Scholarship and was started in 1971 by then Minister for Defence Dr Goh Keng Swee.

Mr Teo, a former SAFOS scholar, said in his keynote address during the award presentation ceremony that a dynamic and vigorous leadership was key to ensuring that the SAF stays ahead of its times.

"Confidence in the SAF rests on it having the best leadership. Ultimately, should the SAF ever be called to battle, Singaporeans want to know that the commanders leading our servicemen are the most capable and committed, and will lead our men to victory in battle," said Mr Teo.

He added that for this very reason, top-quality leaders are especially important to Singapore's survival in the face of new challenges.

"Human resource is Singapore's most important asset," agreed OCT Stanley Lim from the Singapore Army, another SAFOS recipient.

"I believe that the experience and leadership skills I can pick up as a result of this scholarship will greatly aid in motivating and leading my men in the future," he added.

The other four recipients of this year's SAFOS are: OCT Jamie Lee from the Air Force; OCT Chua Xianyi and 2LT Jerik Mok from the Army; and Midshipman (MID) Chua Sheng Hao from the Navy.

These scholars are the future leaders of Singapore and Mr Teo clearly spelt out his high hopes for them as they embark on their rewarding career with the SAF.

"To be soldier scholars, warrior diplomats and leaders, who can envision the future and inspire and lead their men in battle, and understand that the price of peace is perpetual vigilance, and that the ultimate aim of war is to win the peace," he exhorted.