TO LEAD WITH STEEL IN THEIR SOUL

Most Singaporean females would not be keen to pursue a military career. But Officer Cadet (OCT) Perly Kweh thought otherwise.

"After attending a scholarship tea session and gaining a deeper understanding of what a career in the SAF (Singapore Armed Forces) would be like, I decided that it would be suitable for me. Looking back, I have learnt a lot from my experience, and I feel that it's something that not many other professions can offer," said the 20-year-old.

During her time in the Officer Cadet Course, OCT Kweh outshone more than 70 trainees in the Artillery Officer Cadet Course and emerged as top trainee of the cohort. For her exemplary performance, she was awarded the Sword-of-Honour and Best in Physical Training.

She said: "Being an officer is more than just holding the responsibility of leading your men... Sometimes, you have to be firm in making unpopular decisions which serve the best interests of your men and the SAF."

OCT Kweh was one of 338 OCTs, comprising 291 from the Army and 47 from the Air Force, who were commissioned as officers of the SAF at the 88/12 Officer Cadet Course Commissioning Parade held at SAFTI Military Institute on 13 Apr.

Speaking at the parade, Minister, Prime Minister's Office, Second Minister for the Environment and Water Resources and Second Minister for Foreign Affairs Grace Fu, who was the Reviewing Officer, noted that the strength of the SAF lies not just in its military hardware, but in its people.

She said: "The SAF command is also the reason why we continue to have the will to fight and defend our sovereignty. It is crucial that we continue to strengthen the 'heartware' of the SAF and the job now lands on your lap."

She reminded the graduands to never compromise on training standards, and to always uphold high standards of professionalism and discipline.

She added: "Be genuine in your actions and words to earn the respect and trust of your men. When faced with challenges, find the 'steel in your soul' so that you can motivate your men to follow you through the toughest of circumstances."

OCT Bryan David, who received the Sword-of-Honour (Air Warfare Officer, Command, Control and Communications), expressed similar sentiments.

"It is important to lead by example. Only by doing so would you be able to uphold high training standards and the discipline of your men because they will look up to you as a role model."

Due to sports-related injuries, OCT David regularly felt pain in his legs and knees. However, through constant motivation and encouragement from his peers, he was able to press on and complete the course impressively.

"I also learnt how important teamwork and camaraderie are, especially after seeing how my peers helped me throughout the course."

OCT Arun Vinoth S/O Perumal Pillay, who received the Sword-of-Merit, concurred with OCT David.

The Infantry Officer-to-be recalled an incident during the navigation phase of his Jungle Confidence Course, where his team almost did not make it to the finishing point in time.

"We were about 300m away from the finishing point but we were lost... but as a team, we pushed on and did not give up. We worked together towards a common goal, and we eventually got to the end in time."

The parade marked the completion of 38 weeks of rigorous training at the Officer Cadet School, which saw the OCTs undergoing challenging and realistic training to hone their combat, planning and leadership skills.