Senior Minister of State for Transport & Health, Dr Lam Pin Min reviewed the 38th Specialist Cadet Graduation Parade at Pasir Laba Camp this evening. A total of 1,058 Specialist Cadets comprising 938 from the Singapore Army, 59 from the Republic of Singapore Navy, and 61 from the Republic of Singapore Air Force graduated as Specialists of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). 

Addressing the graduands at the parade, Dr Lam reminded the Specialists of the important role they play in safeguarding Singapore. "As you assume the role of leaders and Specialists, you will realise that your responsibilities will increase many-fold. You will bear the responsibility of leading your soldiers to safeguard Singapore's sovereignty, to stand strong and resilient against any challenges that might arise", he said. Dr Lam also highlighted the responsibility of commanders to answer for the training and safety of their men. He said, "Train your soldiers hard, but always keep their safety as a top priority. The SAF will remain committed to ensuring the safety of each and every soldier, and as commanders you have a duty to uphold this core value of safety".

Dr Lam also reiterated the importance of having an ever-ready SAF. He said, "For most Singaporeans, the most salient impact of the SAF lies in the ordinary – the ability to go about our daily lives as per normal, without fear or disruption… All these would not have been possible without the SAF and the other security agencies guarding our nation's peace round-the-clock, even on holidays. Even as I speak, the SAF continues to stand guard over our waters, airspace and key installations all day and night."

The graduation parade marked the completion of the 22-week Specialist Cadet Course, where the graduands trained under rigorous and realistic conditions to develop leadership and combat skills, and deepen their respective vocation expertise. Present at the parade were families and friends of the graduands and senior SAF officers.