Meet MAJ Wilson Tan, a Signals vocationalist, and CPT Tan Ke Wen, an Army Intelligence vocationalist. As brothers-in-arms (quite literally!) serving our nation,  the brothers are both currently pursuing their careers in Our Army. Let us hear more about what their inspirations are and how their journey has been like thus far!

CPT Tan Ke Wen was inspired to join the Army by his brother who had signed on before him.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the Army?

MAJ Wilson:I didn’t think of joining the Army before my enlistment as I didn’t know what was in for me nor was there an elder brother to share his experience with me. But what made me decide to pursue a career with the Army was the great camaraderie and brotherhood that I’ve experienced during my National Service.

CPT Ke Wen:As the youngest child, both my brothers were exemplary role models whom I looked up to. My eldest brother has always been my inspiration to pursue a career in the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). What made me stood firm to this decision was when I saw my brother march onto the parade square during his commissioning parade back in 2009. I remembered the goosebumps I felt as I watched the parade with great admiration. That was when I told myself, “This is what I want to be when I grow up”.

A younger CPT Tan Ke Wen (left) with MAJ Wilson Tan (right) during MAJ Tan’s Officer Cadet Commissioning Parade.

What are some takeaways you have after having served in the Army?

MAJ Wilson:My journey in the SAF has been a fulfilling one as I’ve been given the chance to serve and contribute in different parts of the organisation. Through the years, I have gained different perspectives, further developing me into a better soldier, and a better leader.

CPT Ke Wen:It has been an honour to serve the country. A career in the SAF is very unique as compared to other sectors as there is a system in place which allows us to experience different realms of work. Every exposure provides an opportunity for one to grow and improve as an individual, a leader and a son.

MAJ Wilson Tan sharing how having a brother in the Army has inspired and spurred him on.

How did the both of you supported and inspired each other?

MAJ Wilson:With both of us now having a common interest in the Army, we tend to share our work experiences and can relate to each other better. Through these sharing, we learn from each other’s experiences and improve ourselves. We can also count on each other during difficult times and help each other as much as we can.

CPT Ke Wen:Experience is an invaluable asset, and can only be earned through the time and effort put in by an individual. My brother has supported my career by sharing his personal experiences with me. His advice always guided me in my career in the Army. There was one phrase he shared with me that I have embedded as part of my own philosophy, that is “To be a good leader, you must first be a good follower – always lead by example”.

MAJ Wilson Tan (right) attending his brother’s commissioning parade.

How did your family react when both of you decided to pursue a career in the Army?

MAJ Wilson:We were brought up in a very close and encouraging family as our parents always trust us with our decisions made in life. They supported my decision in pursuing a career in the Army and I’m very grateful to have such understanding and supportive parents. To that, I’ve always reminded myself to make them proud by doing my very best in serving our nation.

CPT Ke Wen:We were given a lot of autonomy when it comes to making decisions in life. Regardless the outcome, we know that we will always have the support of our parents. The trust they placed in us is something I want to protect so I remind myself to make sure I do them proud.

Written by: CPL Jovan See (Army News)

Photography by: LCP Lincoln Lee (Army News), with contributions from the servicemen