RSN CELEBRATES 38 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

The Republic of Singapore Navy was formed in 1967 with just two patrol craft, one of which was named RSS Panglima. The name has been maintained through the years and today, it is borne by the RSN's new premier training establishment, the Changi Naval Training Base - where the 38th anniversary celebrations were held on 5 May.

"Since then, the RSN has grown in strength and capabilities to the balance force it is today, one that is always ready to protect Singapore's maritime interests," said Chief of Navy, Rear-Admiral (RADM) Ronnie Tay, during the anniversary parade.

In his address to about 1,000 members of the RSN family, RADM Tay commended them for their achievements in the past year, which included restructuring the Coastal Command and introducing the multi-crew concept, organising the 9th Western Pacific Naval Symposium, deploying a Landing Ship Tank Task Group to the Arabian Gulf for the second time, as well as being involved in the tsunami disaster relief operation at the start of the year.

He also spoke of good progress in the RSN's transformation journey, but added that technology alone would not guarantee success.

"In times characterised by rapid changes and uncertainty, the RSN can remain successful only when our people are committed to their cause, are self-motivated and capable of learning," RADM Tay said.

During the parade, awards for competitions in the last workyear, as well as the SAF Long Service and Good Conduct Medals for those in the service for 30 years, were also given out.

The RSN best ship went to RSS Resolution and the RSN top gun went to RSS Vigour.

To top off celebrations, Navy personnel participated in an inter-formation telematch and a sailing regatta.