A GLIMPSE OF THE SAF AT ACE 2010

What kind of jobs does the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) offer? What are the requirements to be a pilot? What exciting experiences can one expect from a military career?

At the Armed Forces Career Experience (ACE) at Marina Square Central Atrium held from 25 to 28 Feb, thousands of visitors had their questions answered by military personnel at the exhibition.

The annual SAF career fair featured booths by the Army, Air Force and Navy, which showcased some of the hardware used in each Service, as well as the training and experiences of soldiers, airmen and sailors.

"The purpose of ACE is to reach out to the public. With personnel from the Army, Navy and the Air Force sharing their experiences, it's a good opportunity for people to understand what the SAF is about, and what it offers," said Major Iain Hoo, Head of the Army Recruitment Centre, who was also the event director for this year's ACE.

There to share his personal experiences was 2nd Sergeant (2SG) Daniel Tan, a Section Instructor from the School of Infantry Specialists.

The 24-year-old, who embarked on his SAF career almost four years ago, shared that it was his interest in vehicles and equipment used in the Army that led him to sign on with the Army.

While manning the weapons booth at ACE, he had the opportunity to interact with many visitors.

Said 2SG Tan: "Besides introducing them to the weapons in the Army, I also talked to them about my personal experiences during my training as a section commander. I told them more about what the Infantry does, the training I've had in river crossing and building height confidence, and the bonding I have with my men."

"From their expressions, you can tell many were surprised that the Army offered such a variety of experiences, which you don't get outside of the SAF."

Many whom cyberpioneer spoke to said it was this particular aspect of a military career - offering a unique working experience - that drew them to the exhibition.

"A career in the military is just so different, compared to working in the office from 8-5pm. It's not that I don't like the office environment, but being in the military feels much more interesting to me," said Full-time National Serviceman Corporal (CPL) Abhay Singh, who spoke to personnel from the Army, Navy and the Air Force about career options after his Operationally Ready Date this December. He is currently serving as a platoon commander runner in the 5th Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment.

He added: "Furthermore, I think this is a career that will make me feel proud, because I'm serving the country."

The exhibition also attracted the fairer sex who were there in search for careers in the SAF.

Said 23-year-old Ms Tan Suan Zhi: "I've always wanted to work in the military, so I applied to be a WSO (Weapon Systems Officer) Fighter in the Air Force a few years back, but I wasn't selected. I'm here this year to try for it again."

Besides the chance to get up close and personal with military personnel, other highlights at ACE included close combat demonstrations by personnel in the Army Fitness Centre, precision drills by the Military Police Command and performances by the SAF Music and Drama Company.

24 Feb 10 - Piloting with heart and drive

25 Feb 10 - A specialised career at sea with the perks of home

26 Feb 10 - Adventures in the Army