Speech by Senior Minister of State for Law and Education, Ms Indranee Rajah at the 14/2012 Specialist Cadet Graduation Parade

Graduates of the 14/2012 Specialist Cadet Course,
Parents,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

A very good evening,

To the specialist cadets on parade, I join your families and friends in congratulating you on the safe and successful conclusion of the tough and rigorous Specialist Cadet Course. At the same time, I also want to recognise all the people who have helped you reach this milestone - your parents, brothers, sisters and loved ones who have stood behind you every step of the way of your training. Your graduation today bears testament to the efforts in overcoming weeks of training to build your resilience, physical and mental strength. It also marks the beginning of your service to the nation as Specialist of the SAF, a solemn responsibility of leading your charges to protect our citizens and defend our home, Singapore.

As Singapore continues to enjoy peace and stability, we should never allow complacency to set in. We will need to maintain constant vigilance and stay alert to the myriad threats and security challenges that Singapore is exposed to.

The SAF will continue to evolve to maintain its cutting edge to keep Singapore secure in this period of global uncertainties. Even with state-of-the-art technology and equipment, superior fighting concepts and advance networks, your role as Specialists remain unchanged. Our Specialists and Warrant Officers continue to form the backbone of the SAF, representing the highest military virtues of dedication and discipline.

As leaders, you are responsible for the mission readiness, welfare, morale and discipline of individuals under your command. They will look to you for your support, motivation and guidance. Lead by example and lead with dedication and conviction. While you train and push them hard, look out, at the same time, for their safety and well-being. Show genuine care and concern. Respect them as individuals and spend time talking to them. This will help them better understand what SAF expects of every single individual. You are the critical link between the soldiers and the SAF leadership.

As Specialists in the 3rd Generation SAF, you will be exposed to new challenges and take on greater responsibilities in an increasingly complex operating environment. The training that you have received and the values instilled in you will help in your understanding of the big picture and mission imperatives. These should put you in good stead to excel in your role as a leader, mentor and trainer.

Know your job well and forge a strong partnership with your officers, in order to lead the men under you. Always be mindful of the training you have received and the values that have been instilled in you. Lead with pride, excel in your field, overcome adversity with your fighting spirit and serve in this new role with honour and integrity.

The rank that you are about to wear is an affirmation of the nation's trust and confidence in you. I am confident that the Specialist Cadet Course has equipped you with a strong foundation of leadership and values. Carry out your duty with pride, honour and integrity. Live up to the Specialists' creed of excellence, leadership by example and dedication to Singapore. I welcome all of you as Specialists of the SAF, and wish you all the best as you serve our country, and keep it safe for all of us.
WITH PRIDE WE LEAD