ARMY KICKS OFF EXHIBITION AT TAMPINES

Want to find out more about the Army? Make your way to the open field outside Tampines MRT station, which has been transformed into a "battlefield" for a three-day public exhibition, starting on 28 Nov.

Members of the public can get up close and personal with military vehicles such as the Military Police's bikes, and the Guardsmen s Light Strike Vehicle Mark II.

They can also experience an army operation by shooting air rifles, or walking through a "dark forest" with the aid of night vision googles.

3rd Warrant Officer Low Kay Kee, who was manning the Commando booth, said the exhibition aimed to reach out to the public. "We want to create awareness of what the Army is all about. For example, visitors can see and touch the parachuting gear that the Commandos use in operations."

It is for this reason that Madam Lina Lim took her two grandchildren to the exhibition. "The boy has to serve National Service one day so it's good for him to find out about the Army," she said.

Former Army Regular Tan Kheng Peng was there to reminisce about his younger days as a radar specialist with the Artillery Formation.

"It's an eye opener to see real army gear after leaving the SAF for so long. My children and wife also enjoyed playing with the gadgets," said the 48-year-old engineer.

Curious foreign visitors also dropped by to find out about the military. Mr Regie Tayao and his friends from the Philippines were particularly impressed with the Light Strike Vehicle Mark II.

"This vehicle with the machine gun is excellent, and the structure is very cool," said the aircraft technician.

The Army exhibition at Tampines will end on 30 Nov, and the next one will be held at Jurong East from 5 to 7 Dec.