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Through 40 years of National Service, our Army has witnessed significant advancements in its equipment, technology and training methodologies. However despite numerous changes, some things in the Army have remained constant. These are the values and practices that have ensured our Army's continual growth and professionalism. They include the proven training and development that turn boys into men, the physical and mental preparation necessary for NS, and the leadership qualities that drive our Army forward. Some of these transcend generations of servicemen. Army News visited June's Officer Cadet School (OCS) Commissioning Parade to find out more.
A Character-Building Experience
CPT (RET) David Lim, a former Minister of State, believes that standards in the SAF have gone up over the years. He said, "Back when I was serving NS, we were not as well equipped and training was less vigorous. Through the years, the SAF has improved to become a professional and well-run force." CPT (RET) Lim also commented that today's public is committed to NS and national defence. He said, "Parents nowadays are more supportive of their sons when they go for NS training. I think they appreciate the role it plays in developing the character, building a certain determination to succeed against the odds."
CPT (RET) Lim's son, 2LT Simon Lim, is now serving as a Scout Platoon Commander in 3rd Guards Battalion. He agreed that NS is a character-building experience, saying, "My 38 weeks in OCS have taught me alot. I have learnt to deal with stress, how to relate to others and to be more mature."
The Importance of a Solid Foundation
2WO Alagappan and his son, 2LT Saravanan both stressed the importance of bringing up good soldiers and officers. 2WO Alagappan said, "There have been tremendous changes in the SAF, but in the end its how we train our soldiers to be officers that matters." 2LT Saravanan added, "From young, my dad has prepared me for NS both physically and mentally. Throughout my time in Basic Military Training and OCS, he gave me nuggets of wisdom that served me well."
Leadership: A Heavy Responsibility
Director CMRC, COL (VOL) Sng Cheng Keh feels that the qualities required of a leader in our Army have not changed. He said, "A leader has to be prepared and educated so that he can assume his responsibilities. Being an officer requires a lot of determination, perseverance and fortitude." His son, 2LT Benjamin Sun, also commented that leadership involves a heavy responsibility. He said, "To me, care for soldiers is a very important value and I will do my best to look out for the welfare of my men. This doesn't just mean giving them a lot of goodies, but also training them well and preparing them for the eventualities they may face."
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