SOMEONE TO LOOK UP TO

What does it take to be a hero?

Supernatural powers and talents, you say? Maybe.

How about a big heart and a willingness to serve? Definitely.

Many Katong School students dream of joining the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) simply because they want to be like their "big brothers and sisters" from 182/189 Squadron.

Personnel of the squadron organise activities for the more than 200 students at least once every quarter. These activities range from telematches to festive celebrations and visits to the Navy. The Navy personnel are also ready to offer their assistance whenever the school needs help.

"The kids love them," said Mrs Lily Chan, head of department for student well-being and discipline.

"Especially because they are constantly swarmed by female teachers, they really need male role models whom they can look up to."

The students, between the ages of seven and 16, have learning disabilities, autism or attention-deficiency disorders.

But just like all other children, they enjoy going to school and meeting up with friends, playing a good game of basketball and performing a song-and-dance routine on stage.

"The children of Katong School represent the youth and aspirations of the younger generation and we hope that we can inspire them further," said Major (MAJ) Lee Soon Tat, Commanding Officer of RSS Freedom, the coordinating ship for this community programme.

"The men and women of the squadron benefit from the friendship and bonding with the staff and students. Katong School represents an extended family we share our time and care with."

For the personnel's selfless efforts, the squadron has received the Silver Excellent Service Award from the Association For Persons with Special Needs. Minister of State for Education and Manpower Gan Kim Yong presented the award to MAJ Lee on 20 Oct.

Though the award came as a pleasant surprise to the squadron personnel, they were encouraged by this recognition.

Said First Sergeant (1SG) Derrick Ang, RSS Freedom's Chief Gun Crew 1: "Every moment we spent with the students is enjoyable."

"Those times when we bring the students to the bases and for ship tours, the look of happiness on their faces is really priceless."

RSN's collaboration with Katong School began way back in the 1980s, with the Navy personnel pitching in during the school's relocation from various sites.

Recently, the school relocated to New Upper Changi Road. Mrs Chan recalled how the RSN personnel went the extra mile to ensure that things would go without a hitch.

"All they were required to do was to come down on the actual day to help move the stuff, but they made time to come down before that to assess the situation and strategise the move so that it could be done more efficiently," she told cyberpioneer.

"I also saw how they were looking out for the students who were helping to move on the actual day, asking them whether they were doing okay."

Over the years, Mrs Chan has witnessed genuine bonds being built between the students and the service personnel. Their involvement is no longer an obligatory community project, but rather, a genuine commitment.

"After interacting with the children, the personnel told me it was an eye-opener for them, to see another side of the world where people are lacking in certain areas," she said.

"This has changed their perspective and their whole attitude."