Graduands of the 106/16 Officer Cadet Course,
Parents,
Distinguished Guests, 
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good evening.

My heartiest congratulations to all of you for successfully completing the Officer Cadet Course. After 38 weeks of rigorous training, you are now ready to be commissioned as Officers of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). All of us here today - your commanders, trainers, loved ones and fellow Singaporeans - are proud of your achievements, and your resilience. 

Legacy of the Generations of the SAF Leaders

This year, we mark 50 years of National Service. As our founding Prime Minister, Mr Lee Kuan Yew, once said, and I quote, "From the day we started, I knew that we needed a strong SAF, and I believe that still remains today. Without a strong SAF, there is no economic future, there is no security. I think the SAF has done better than I hoped. That was because the generations that grew up knew the stakes involved."

My fellow Singaporeans, for 50 years, more than one million sons of Singapore have served in NS. Together with our regular servicemen and women, they defended our country and protected our families. They transformed the SAF into what it is today - an advanced and networked force, always ready when called upon. Some of them are here today. They have served NS dutifully and are here to witness the commissioning of their sons, brothers and loved ones.  Please join me in acknowledging and thanking them for their service to the nation. Thank you, our fellow NSmen. 

Later, we will witness the handing over of the Colours from the seniors to the juniors. It is symbolic of the passing over of the mantle 'from My Generation to Yours'. It is the pledge of commitment by the younger generation to defend our country, and a reassurance to the older generation that you will continue to stand strong and keep Singapore safe. 

The Role of the SAF in the Evolving Global Environment

The task ahead of you will only get more complex and challenging. The terror threat to our country, the region and the world is far greater today than it was before. We must stand together in unity, and not let divisive forces break our bonds as one people, and as one nation. The SAF has done well in keeping up with our security challenges. National Service has strengthened our unique sense of pride and cohesiveness in our society; where one learns to trust the person next to him regardless of race, language, or religion. This social capital, reinforced by a strong SAF and Home Team, is what will see us through the evolving security threats of our time. 

The Commitment of the SAF Leaders

As we look to the future and anticipate the threats that lie ahead, the importance of your roles cannot be overstated. I am confident that all of you on the parade square today will rise to the challenge to be part of the next transformation of the SAF. The SAF is only as strong as its soldiers, and our soldiers are only as strong as their leaders. As Officers of the SAF, your duty will be to lead, to excel, and to overcome. 

First, you must lead by example. Inspire our soldiers by demonstrating a high degree of professionalism and discipline. Lead with the core values of the SAF in your hearts. Motivate and nurture them to become better soldiers and persons. They will respect you if they see that you really care for them. 

Second, you must strive to excel in everything we do. Undertake your roles with complete dedication and commitment. As leaders, you must unite your teams no matter how diverse they are. Give them a sense of shared purpose and meaning. Inspire them to always give their best by bringing out the best in them.  

Last but not least, you must overcome adversity with courage, fortitude and determination. You will set the benchmark of what is possible in your troop. It is critical that you have that grit within, to persevere and never give up. Always believe that you can make a positive difference, to improve the effectiveness and readiness of our SAF.

It is these qualities of Officers that have stood the test of time - a testament to the enduring tradition of excellence upheld by the Officer Cadet School (OCS). 

Once again, congratulations to each and every one of you. This parade marks the beginning of your service to our nation and people, as an Officer of the SAF. It is a proud moment for you, your families and your loved ones. I wish you all the very best as you carry out your duties as leaders in the SAF and uphold the OCS motto - "To Lead, to Excel, to Overcome".

All the best to all of you, Sir.