The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) commemorated SAF Day at a parade officiated by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam at SAFTI Military Institute (SAFTI MI) this evening. The parade was moved indoors due to inclement weather. More than 2,000 SAF Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen), Full-time National Servicemen and Regulars witnessed the parade.

This parade marks 40 years of Total Defence and is the first time that President Tharman has presided over the parade. Chief of Defence Force Vice Admiral Aaron Beng led SAF personnel in reciting the SAF pledge to reaffirm their loyalty to Singapore and steadfast commitment to its defence.

At the parade, President Tharman presented the State Colours to this year's Best Combat Unit, the Singapore Army's 1st Commando Battalion. Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen presented Best Unit awards to 18 active units and 12 National Service units for their outstanding achievements in their respective formations. Dr Ng also presented 19 NSman of the Year awards at the post-parade reception to recognise the outstanding contributions by the NSmen.

Other SAF personnel and members of the public joined the parade via video livestreaming on the Ministry of Defence's social media channels.

Also present at the parade were Senior Ministers of State for Defence Mr Heng Chee How and Mr Zaqy Mohamad, the Chiefs of the Army, Navy, Air Force and Digital and Intelligence Service, as well as other senior officials from MINDEF and the SAF.