In this week’s NS55 special, we spoke to Second Warrant Officer (2WO) (NS) Hamdy Bin Hamzah about his NS experience and what inspired him to continue to serve under the Reservist on Voluntary Extended Reserve Service (ROVERS) scheme. The ROVERS scheme allows our NSmen to continue serving NS until the statutory age of 40 years old for Warrant Officers, Military Experts, Specialists and Enlistees (WOSEs).

Can you share with us your NS journey?

I am 2WO (NS) Hamdy Bin Hamzah. Since I reached my Operationally Ready Date (ORD) back in 2006, I have been with 811th Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment (811 SIR). I am currently with 924th Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment (924 SIR), where I am serving as Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) under 2nd People’s Defence Force (2 PDF) / Island Defence Task Force (IDTF) Command.

How has your experience been as a RSM and trainer?

My experience and journey as a RSM in our Army and 924 SIR has been enriching and fulfilling. My duties as a RSM during In-Camp Training (ICT) is mainly on administration and training matters. Generally, my work with our Army is categorised into the following: General Administration Matters of the unit, In/Out Processing of our service personnel, Training and Evaluation of our soldiers, and Parade and Ceremony. At the same time, I guide and mentor the younger Company Sergeant Majors (CSMs) and Specialists. And in turn, they become better Warfighters, Leaders and Trainers to our Soldiers. Overall, I am immensely grateful to have been given the opportunity to serve and lead in our Army.

One of 2WO (NS) Hamdy's responsibilities in our Army is to manage general administration for in/out processing of our servicemen in the unit.

The Command Team of 924 SIR engaging their NSmen during an outfield training

Can you share with us any memorable events or people in our Army that inspired you? What are some takeaways from your various roles in our Army?

Some of my most memorable moments in our Army would be the treasured instances in which we are nearing the end of our ICTs, where the men and commanders would gather together to appreciate each other for their hard work, effort and service. I would think it is those moments of close bonds that kept me going, and hold the closest within my heart for years to come.

2WO (NS) Hamdy (right) together with Major (MAJ)(NS) Steve Wah, Commanding Officer (CO), 924 SIR

Some of my key takeaways with our Army is to stay grounded always, and remain focused on my tasks at hand. Furthermore, during my tenure I have learnt to never work alone, and instead work as a team whenever possible. With a team, any difficulty can be surmounted with the right goals and motivations in place.

What are some of your motivations that prompted you to continue to ROVERS?

My main motivation in continuing to ROVERS is to impart my knowledge and experience to the juniors that are just starting their Operationally Ready National Service (ORNS) journey. I believe it is time for me to give back what I have gained all these years.

As a part of regimentation, 2WO (NS) Hamdy conducting an inspection to ensure proper attire for our NSmen

My family and colleagues have been monumental during my ROVERS journey. They manage and hold the fort at home and within the office, when I need to don our Army’s uniform. I am most certainly appreciative of the extra effort and support that they took to cover my duties, as an employee, a father and a husband; and especially to my wife who has to take care of my two girls while I am away at work and serving the country.

What does 'NS55' mean to you? Do you have some inspiring words for our NSmen?

The 55 years of NS (NS55) is a symbol and reminder for us Singaporean sons of our duty and obligation to our nation. It is a platform for our servicemen to show gratitude and dedication to our country. My stance on National Service has remained the same over the years, which is that Singapore needs us for the defence of our country. If we do not protect the sovereignty of our country, nobody will do so on our behalf. My advice for our NSmen would be to train hard and diligently, train safely and most importantly, enjoy the journey alongside with your peers.

?? : LCP Scott Pang (Army News)
?? : PTE Samuel Tan (Army News) and contributed by 2WO (NS) Hamdy Bin Hamzah