Graduands of the 98/15 Officer Cadet Course,
Parents and Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am very happy to join you this evening for the commissioning parade.The last time I attended an OCS commissioning parade was my own, some 20 years ago, at this very same parade square. So I fully understand how all of you must be feeling right now.

Many things have changed since I was a cadet. I think we no longer do log PTs up and down Peng Kang Hill. Our training methods have evolved with the times, but they are still demanding and rigorous.

I'm sure for all the cadets here at the start of the course, some of you were wondering whether you could even get past the first week of training. But you persevered and pushed your limits. And today, you stand proud and tall on this parade square, ready to join the ranks of a commissioned officer. 

So my heartiest congratulations to each and every one of you - we're very proud of all that you've achieved. Well done. 

I also want to acknowledge all the family members and friends who are here this evening. We have a big group who have come to support our graduands. Our graduands could not have made it without your support. Thank you very much for taking this journey with them, and for the many sacrifices that you have made, to enable them to carry out their duties. So, to our family members and friends, thank you very much for the support as well.

All of our graduands are commissioning in a special SG50 year, when we celebrate our nation's 50th anniversary of independence.

Over the past five decades, we have worked hard together to achieve peace, progress and harmony. A major reason for this is that we have a strong and credible SAF. Our ability and resolve to defend ourselves was never in doubt. So people took us seriously, they respected us, and we could be friends and partners with our neighbours.

Our regional environment today is stable. But we only need to look around us to realise that there are potential flash points and uncertainties.

Around the world, including in Southeast Asia, the threat of jihadist terrorism continues to loom large.

In the South China Sea, tensions have grown and various countries have become more assertive of their claims.

In our neighbouring countries, especially Malaysia and Indonesia, race and religion are still deeply sensitive issues. And there are many people around us who hold the view that Singapore is just a little red dot enjoying undeserved success at their expense.

We are committed to maintaining friendly ties with all countries, but nobody can be sure how the situation in the region will evolve, and whether there will be future tensions or even conflict in Southeast Asia or Asia.

So if we want to see Singapore flourish for another 50 years and more, we must continue to stay vigilant and stand ready to defend ourselves if any troubles come our way.

This is why the SAF maintains robust capabilities to conduct a full spectrum of operations, both at home and overseas. And in recent years, the SAF has contributed to anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden as well as disaster relief operations for our neighbours.

Every day, working in the background, our soldiers, our sailors and our airmen keep watch over our homeland to keep us safe from potential threats.

This is what makes the SAF so effective. It's not just about having the latest military equipment or technology. But it's the spirit and the quality of our people that makes a difference. It's about you and I doing our part to defend our nation and to protect our people.

Year after year, generations of national servicemen have stepped forward to respond to the call of duty, honour, country.

Tonight, the torch is passed on to all of you.

As Officers, you will be leading teams of soldiers to serve our nation.

There will be high expectations of you from the people under your command.

You want your men to do something; they will be looking at you to show the way first. You want your men to push their limits; they will be watching you closely to see if you yourself are walking the talk, especially during strenuous training.

So remember to lead by example, and to lead with conviction. Strive for high standards, but always uphold the welfare and safety of your men. Inspire your men, not just with words, but with your actions. Show them that our nation, our people and our way of life are worth defending.

Today marks, not the end, but the beginning of your leadership journey. It's a journey that will require your commitment, your self-sacrifice and hard work.

Throughout your NS and subsequent phases of In-Camp Training, you will train, exercise and take part in operations. Some of you will attend more advanced courses, to prepare for heavier responsibilities.

It may seem like a tough and long journey, but I will tell you from personal experience, that this is probably one of the most rewarding and fulfilling things that you can do in your life.

Along the way, you are bound to face challenges and uncertainties, or even setbacks. Take these in your stride, and learn from the mistakes that you're bound to make. Whatever the assignment or mission, you must have the courage, the resilience and fortitude to overcome any obstacles.

Generations of SAF Officers before you have demonstrated dedication and integrity in protecting our nation. We will now count on you to live up to this proud tradition.

I am confident that all our men and women here on this parade square will discharge your duties with professionalism, compassion and humility. So I wish you all the very best as you go on in your next phase of leadership journey, continuing to uphold the motto of the Officer Cadet School - "To Lead, To Excel, To Overcome".