Graduands of the 22/2014 Specialist Cadet Course,Parents,Ladies and Gentlemen,

This week we mourn the passing of Mr Lee Kuan Yew, our country's founding Prime Minister. The late Mr Lee firmly believed that a strong defense is the cornerstone for Singapore's success. The professionalism and operational readiness that the SAF has achieved today is only possible through his vision and inspiring leadership. We pay tribute to him by making sure that every one of our Commanders and soldiers continue to be committed to the defense of Singapore.

To the graduands on parade, you have done well by completing the Specialist Cadet Course. You have persevered through 22 weeks of rigorous military training, and are here today because you have proven your ability, drive and determination to be appointed as Specialists of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). At the same time, I want to recognise your parents and loved ones who have supported you throughout this journey. I am sure their strong support and encouragement have significantly contributed to your fine performance.

The 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 leading men and women into battle when called upon, to defend our nation and protect our families and loved ones.

As we mark 50 years of independence, it is important we remember the lessons we have learnt since our independence and appreciate our hard earned peace and prosperity. All this is possible because our pioneer generation of soldiers and leaders recognised early on that a small country like Singapore needed a strong and credible defence force to steer a steady course in an uncertain world.

Likewise, 2015 also marks the SAF's 50th Anniversary - a significant milestone in the SAF's history. It is a year for the SAF to come together to commemorate the past efforts of all those who built a strong defence for this small country, and envision a future for Singapore together. The generations before you have done their duty to keep Singapore safe and secure, and it is now your turn to take on this proud tradition to defend our home, to protect your loved ones, and to secure our future and our way of life. This is a solemn and sacred duty which you must undertake with steadfast dedication and commitment.

While we have enjoyed years of peace and security, we must not forget our vulnerabilities as a small nation, as we can easily be affected by developments from around the world. Piracy, pandemics and terrorism cut across nations' boundaries  easily. The radicalising influence of extremist groups like Islamic State of Iraq and Syria can spread to Southeast Asia.  To protect Singapore from these threats, the SAF has been continually enhancing its capabilities over the years by leveraging on new technologies, weaponry, and platforms. Today, the SAF is a modern armed force with sophisticated systems and equipment, capable of carrying out all operations, in peacetime and when called upon. However, the strength of the SAF lies not in its advanced military hardware but in the continued commitment, competence and fighting spirit of our people. It is national servicemen, like you, who are the cornerstone of Singapore's defence.

In these 50 years since the SAF started, we have built a strong and credible defence that we can be proud of because of the commitment of our people. To create a more positive experience that further empowers and motivates individuals to serve, the Government accepted 30 recommendations put forth by the Committee to Strengthen National Service (CSNS) in June last year. Among these - NS enlistment wait-time has been shortened, the first intake of SAFVC Volunteers has started training earlier this week and the restructured Advisory Council on Community Relations in Defence (ACCORD) is reaching out to a wider community. More recently, a new format of the IPPT was rolled out to encourage servicemen to train and maintain their fitness levels, without the need for specialised techniques or equipment. Amidst these changes to further strengthen National Service as an institution, your role as Specialists and leaders in the SAF remains a critical one.

As new leaders of the SAF, the future chapters of the SAF are yours to write. As you graduate and assume leadership positions in your new units, start by putting your hearts and minds to all that you do. Only then will you be able to overcome challenges you may face ahead, and come out a stronger leader in the process. You will soon be entrusted with the lives of your fellow soldiers, sailors and airmen in your respective units, where you will have the opportunity to touch lives and play a big part in shaping their NS experience, both during the two years of active service and in the ten years of NS.

Train your soldiers well and train them hard, and help them achieve the standards that you set for them. Learn to maximise their strengths, unlock their potential and motivate them to give their best during National Service. The men and women under your charge will come from diverse backgrounds, each with their own beliefs and attitudes. As a commander, you will have a vital role to play in helping your men understand and internalise the importance of NS. Lead by example and with conviction, empathise with your fellow soldiers, and encourage them sincerely – be their friend, be their guide and their mentor. In turn, they will look to you for leadership, guidance, and support.

As leaders in the SAF, you will also be called upon to make tough decisions on the ground. Exemplify the values that have been instilled in you. These will put you in good stead to 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. I welcome all of you as Specialists of the Singapore Armed Forces, 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, secure, and strong for the years ahead.

WITH PRIDE WE LEAD