When being placed in an unfamiliar environment, we are bound to feel out of place and it is at times like this when friends are people whom you can turn to. This was the case for three friendships which were newly formed during National Service.

Fist bump, virtually! 3SG Wong Shyan-Yong (left) and 3SG Adam Bin Mohamed Razali (right)

3SG Adam Bin Mohamed Razali and 3SG Wong Shyan-Yong were two soldiers who trained together at the Armour Training Institute (ATI) There, they became buddies in the same section, quickly hitting it off.

As 3SG Adam shared, “Training at ATI was really packed and hectic. At times when my morale was low, thankfully, my buddy, Shyan-Yong, was there to motivate me to take all these challenges in stride.”

Armour Specialist Cadets performing operational checks on the Bionix Infantry Fighting Vehicle.

Besides motivating him, 3SG Adam also became a more positive individual under his buddy’s influence. “He encouraged me to lead a balanced lifestyle, staying professional while training and remembering to take time to have fun. I would like to say a big thank-you to my buddy. Through all the tough training, we've all finally graduated from the Specialist Cadet School (SCS). It has certainly been a memorable experience.”

3SG Teng Zi Yi (left) and 3SG Nicholas Toh (right)

While training at Specialist and Warrant Officer Institute (SWI), two buddies, 3SG Nicholas Toh and 3SG Teng Zi Yi formed a close friendship, one where they mutually depended on each other, whether in good or bad times.

“During outfield, I was facing some personal problems which affected my performance. My buddy, Zi Yi, took the time to hear me out and motivate me. Furthermore, he knew that my fitness level was low and helped me out a lot even though he was equally drained.”

Infantry Specialist Cadets during one of their live-firing drills.

Feeling grateful to have met such a great buddy, 3SG Toh has a few words to say to 3SG Teng. “Thank you for being there for me, supporting me throughout. You have taught me to be optimistic and persevere even when times are tough. Like you did for me, I hope you will continue to influence your peers and soldiers positively. May everything go well for you after our graduation and keep in touch!”

3SG Ong Jiang En (left) and 3SG Kumaraguru S/O Sanmugam (right)

Meanwhile in Island Defence Training Institute (IDTI), 3SG Kumaraguru S/O Sanmugam and 3SG Ong Jiang En were a pair of buddies who started off their training journey as Military Policemen.

Reflecting about his time in IDTI, 3SG Kumaraguru mentioned how there were many memorable moments he shared with his buddy. “During our live firing, I remember both of us feeling very nervous. When it was our turn, we happened to be next to each other and encouraged each other by giving a thumbs-up. In the end, we managed to pass with flying colours!”

Under the influence of 3SG Ong, 3SG Kumaraguru also became more focused and driven. “Once during a combat lesson, I was struggling to master a certain technique. After the lesson, my buddy came up and asked if I wanted to practise together. While practising, he assured me that my combat skills were improving. From then on, we started practising and working out together.” Through continuous shared effort, 3SG Kumaraguru eventually achieved IPPT Gold, and was awarded the Platoon Best Soldier.

Military Police Specialist Cadets during one of their combat lessons.

Looking back, 3SG Kumaraguru has this to say to his buddy: “Thank you for guiding and motivating me throughout my journey in SCS. I wish you all the best in your remaining NS journey. I know you will be an amazing leader!”