Speech by Chief of Army Major-General Perry Lim at the 20/14 Specialist Cadet Course Graduating Parade, at Pasir Laba Camp

Graduands of the 20/2014 Specialist Cadet Course,
Parents,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
A very good evening.

To the graduands on parade, let me congratulate all of you on successfully completing the Specialist Cadet Course. It was a tough and rigorous course which tested your physical and mental abilities. You are here today because you have passed that test. All of you have shown the ability, drive and determination to push the limits and excel. At the same time, I also want to recognise all the people who helped you to reach this milestone - your parents and loved ones who have stood behind you throughout this journey. I am sure their strong support and encouragement have significantly contributed to your fine achievements.

Your graduation today marks the end of a key phase of your training but more importantly, it signifies a new beginning of your service to the nation as a Specialist of the SAF. You are now entrusted with the heavy responsibility of defending our nation and our people. Generations before you have done their duty to keep Singapore safe, secure and strong. It is now your turn to step up and take responsibility to defend our home, to protect our families and friends and to secure our future and way of life. This is a solemn and serious duty which you must undertake with steadfast dedication and commitment.

To perform your duties effectively, you need to first understand our operating environment. The world in which we live in has become more complex and uncertain. The ongoing Ukraine crisis is a timely reminder of the heavy price that small countries have to pay when they do not have a strong defence. At the end of the day, we can only rely on ourselves to safeguard our sovereignty and way of life. The rise of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria reminds us that terrorism and extremism continue to be very real and serious threats. Indeed, the security challenges we face today are wide-ranging, ever-evolving and unpredictable.

Militaries are also increasingly expected to tackle non-traditional security challenges such as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), as they have the resources, manpower and expertise to mount a quick response. To stay ahead of these threats and new roles, the SAF has over the years broadened and deepened its capabilities by leveraging new technologies, weaponry and platforms. Today, the SAF is a modern armed force with sophisticated systems and equipment, capable of full-spectrum operations. However, the strength of the SAF lies not in its advanced military hardware but in our people.

The fluid nature of today's operating environment has changed the way we conduct our operations. We now see greater decentralisation of operations and more autonomy given to our ground troops. With these changes, it becomes even more crucial to have strong leaders amongst our junior ranks and this includes each and every one of you on parade today. In this regard, all our SAF leaders - Officers, Military Experts, Warrant Officers and Specialists - are equally important and their partnership will help ensure mission success for the SAF.

A key pillar ensuring the success of the SAF is National Service. In June this year, the Government accepted the Committee to Strengthen National Service (CSNS)'s 30 recommendations aiming to create a more positive NS experience that empowers and motivates our individuals. MINDEF and MHA are working to implement these recommendations over the next few years, which include enhancing the IPPT management and training system and strengthening the National Service training system. We will also be deploying more Regular trainers to improve our NS training. These Regular trainers will be able to provide our NSFs a better appreciation of why they train and what they are defending. Even as the Government is working to enrich our people’s NS experience, we will count on you as commanders in translating intent into reality.

Train your soldiers well and train them hard so that they can better contribute to the defence of Singapore. Learn to maximise their strengths, unlock their potential and motivate them to give their best during National Service. Talk to them to understand their challenges, as you also help them understand what the SAF expects from them. Always be mindful of their safety and welfare at all times. Be genuine in your actions and words to earn the respect and trust of your men. Spend time with them, be their guide, friend and mentor.

As a leader, you must always lead with conviction and lead by example. Be prepared to do what you expect your soldiers to do, and help them achieve the standards that you set for them. Lead with pride, excel in your field, overcome adversity with your fighting spirit and serve in this new role with honour and integrity.

Today's Graduation Parade represents a significant milestone in your journey in National Service and the SAF. I am confident that the Specialist Cadet Course has equipped you with a strong foundation of leadership and combat skills. The rank that you are about to wear is an affirmation of the nation's trust and confidence in you. Perform your duties to the best of your abilities and 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 to the best of your abilities. Singapore and our people depend on you to keep our country safe and secure for the years ahead.

WITH PRIDE WE LEAD