President Nathan interacting with SAF personnel at the Presidential Garden Reception. President Nathan interacting with NSmen of the Year award winners at the Presidential Garden Reception 2008. >> More Photos Presidential Garden Reception

President S R Nathan hosted more than 800 personnel from the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF), the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) to a garden reception at the Istana this evening. This annual reception is held in recognition of their contributions to the defence of Singapore.

During the reception, President Nathan interacted with senior MINDEF, SAF and DSTA officials, active servicemen and Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen) who shared with him their experience and contributions to Singapore's peace and security. The winners of the NSmen of the Year award were also among the guests at the reception.

Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean and Second Minister for Defence, Dr Ng Eng Hen, were also present at the reception.