NAVY CELEBRATES 41ST ANNIVERSARY

It was a day of remembrance and tribute. It was also a day when the Republic of Singapore Navy's (RSN) personnel let their hair down and had a good time.

In his speech at the Navy Day Celebration 2008, Chief of Navy Rear-Admiral (RADM) Chew Men Leong paid tribute to the men and women of the RSN.

He shared anecdotes of personnel going the extra mile one full-time National Service officer extending his Operationally Ready Date (ORD) just to serve with his ship on an overseas deployment.

"We have been able to do so much and come this far because of the amazing men and women we have in the RSN, because of every one of you standing here today," said RADM Chew.

"But we can never take the fact that we have good people for granted. We must continually work to invest in our people to ensure that each one of you reaches your full potential."

RADM Chew also highlighted ongoing efforts to "empower people at all levels". He cited the Navy Day celebrations as one such example, with the bulk of the organising committee made up of Warrant Officers and Specialists.

The celebrations were not all about pomp and ceremony though. A mini-carnival was set up next to the parade square.

This year s Navy Day came with another twist. Participants were invited to complete a commemorative mosaic puzzle, which is to be listed in the Singapore Book of Records.