Speech by Chief of Defence Force, at the 24/2015 Specialist Cadet Course Graduation Parade

Graduands of the 24/2015 Specialist Cadet Course,
Parents,
Ladies and gentlemen,
A very good evening.

To the graduands on parade, let me congratulate all of you for successfully completing the Specialist Cadet Course. You are here today because you have shown the ability, drive and determination to persevere through 22 weeks of rigorous military training. In doing so, you have proven yourself worthy of becoming a Specialist of the Singapore Armed Forces. 

This is also an occasion for us to recognise your parents and loved ones who have stood beside you throughout this journey. I am sure their strong support and encouragement have significantly contributed to your achievements.

Your graduation today marks a key milestone for every one of you and signifies a new phase of your service to the nation as a Specialist of the SAF. You are now entrusted with the duty and responsibility of defending our nation and our people. There is no higher calling than this.

Your new role as leaders comes at a momentous time for Singapore as we celebrate fifty years of our independence - our Golden Jubilee. This has only been possible because the SAF has carried out its mission well, every day, for the past 50 years. Singaporeans count on the SAF to keep us safe 24/7. In a book to mark 50 years of the SAF, entitled Giving Strength to our Nation, current Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong wrote that, and I quote, \"indeed the SAF is the cornerstone of the Singapore Story. It has given us the peace and security to build a home, the strength to forge a cohesive society, and the freedom to pursue our dreams and chart our own destiny.\" It is now your turn to step forward to do your part. You must ensure that the same peace and security we have enjoyed as a nation over the last five decades, continues well into the future. 

Over the years, the SAF has also demonstrated our value in peace as we expanded our roles and responsibilities to deal with a spectrum of operations other than war. These include responding to natural disasters, such as the recent earthquake in Nepal and the floods in Kelantan, assisting in health pandemics and organising national events. 

While we have enjoyed many years of peace and security, let us not forget that as a small nation, we could easily be affected by any turmoil that takes place in the world or in our region. As we continue to face a volatile environment, I take heart in knowing that the training you have received will adequately prepare you for your new roles. As Specialists and as last-mile leaders, we are counting on you to translate our warfighting capabilities to the ground and lead your men and women well. This is a solemn and sacred duty which you must undertake with steadfast dedication. 

Over the last five decades, the SAF has transformed into a modern armed force, equipped with sophisticated systems and equipment. However, the real strength of the SAF lies not in its advanced military hardware but in the continued commitment, competence and fighting spirit of its people. It is national servicemen and women, like you, who are the cornerstone of Singapore's defence. As we look ahead to SG100, all of you, as the next generation of leaders standing before me, have to play your part to ensure that the SAF continues to keep our home safe. We are relying on you to prepare and lead your soldiers well so that they can do their jobs when called upon.

As you graduate and assume leadership positions in your new units, start by putting your hearts and minds to what you do. You will be able to overcome challenges and in the process come out a stronger leader. Soon, you will be entrusted with the lives of your fellow soldiers, sailors and airmen in your respective units. Do not take this responsibility lightly. As a Specialist and a leader, you must give nothing short of your best. Your soldiers, sailors and airmen will look to you to uphold the qualities espoused in the Specialist creed. You will be in a position not only to train them, but also to guide and mentor them. How you do so will determine their NS experience, both during the two years of active service and in the ten years of NS. I am certain that you will find this both fulfilling and rewarding.

Train your soldiers well and train them hard. 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, expectations and attitudes. As a commander, you will play a crucial role in helping your men and women understand and internalise the importance of National Service. Lead by example and with conviction, empathise with your fellow soldiers, and engage them sincerely - be their friend, their guide and their mentor. In turn, they will look to you for leadership, guidance, and support.

As leaders in the SAF, you will 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 adversities 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

More Resources

1,155 Graduate as SAF Specialists