WORKING TOGETHER FOR A SAFE AND SECURE SINGAPORE

With Operationally-Ready National Servicemen (NSmen) forming the bulk of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF), their commitment determines how strong and capable the SAF is.

At the first of four SAF Day Combined Rededication Ceremonies held at the Singapore Chinese Orchestra Concert Hall on 1 Jul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean paid tribute to the dedication of the citizen soldiers, as well as the unstinting support from their families and employers.

"You dedicate yourselves to training hard to perform the role entrusted to you. You sacrifice time with your family to answer the call of duty to guard our shores, our seas and our skies," lauded Mr Teo.

"It is the fighting spirit of each and every one of you that determines how potent and credible the SAF is. Because of this spirit, no one doubts the SAF's capabilities and its determination to fight and prevail against any threats to our peace."

LTC (NS) Low, Pledge Leader for the West Zone rededication ceremony believes that employers' support is vital for NSmen to carry out their duties with greater peace of mind.

He added that the SAF is grateful for the support from all Singaporeans - especially families and employers - to National Service (NS), so as to allow the NSmen to carry out their reservist training without a hitch.

"During difficult economic times this support, which makes it possible for our National Servicemen to focus on their training and operational duties, is even more important," said Mr Teo. "The SAF thus owes its strength to all Singaporeans, who have proven steadfast and true in their commitment to national defence."

Over 850 NSmen from 180 companies and their employers reaffirmed their commitment to the defence of Singapore at the Combined Rededication Ceremonies held across the island.

The three other rededication ceremonies were officiated by Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Foreign Affairs Raymond Lim, Minister (Prime Minister's Office) Lim Boon Heng, and Minister for Finance Tharman Shanmugaratnam.

Speaking to cyberpioneer, Pledge Leader for the West Zone ceremony Lieutenant-Colonel (LTC) (NS) Ace Low, briefly outlined the primary responsibilities and duties of NSmen.

"One, we have to take care of our families. Two, we need to regenerate the economy through our work. Last but not least, we have to protect our families and the economy; this is done through NS," explained LTC (NS) Low, who works as a Program Manager at ST Kinetics.

"Employers' support is absolutely vital, because only with their support can we have the peace of mind to direct all our energy and efforts toward the defence of Singapore."

LTC (NS) Low, Commanding Officer of an NS infantry unit, makes it a point to lead by example, often attending additional training courses during the course of the year. With a personal belief that "one must serve with passion and dedication", his effort was duly recognised with the NSman of the Year Award in 2006.

In addition to the Combined Rededication Ceremonies, a parade was held at the SAFTI Military Institute to commemorate SAF Day. Officiated by President S R Nathan, the parade was attended by Mr Teo, Minister for Education and Second Minister for Defence Ng Eng Hen and Minister of State for Defence Koo Tsai Kee.

More than 3,000 SAF regulars, NSmen and Full-Time National Servicemen were present to witness the parade.

Chief of Defence Force, Lieutenant-General Desmond Kuek, led the SAF personnel in reciting the SAF pledge to reaffirm their loyalty to the nation and their commitment to the defence of Singapore.

President Nathan then presented the State Colours to this year's Best Combat Unit, the 1st Commando Battalion, followed by Mr Teo, who presented the Best Unit and Best NS Unit awards to 22 SAF units.

At the post-parade reception, Mr Teo also presented the SAF NSman of the Year Award to 12 NSmen.

President Nathan inspecting the Guard of Honour contingents during the SAF Day Parade.

President Nathan presenting the State Colours to LTC Edwin Goh, Commanding Officer of 1st Commando Battalion, winner of the Best Combat Unit this year their sixth win in a row.