1,000 Graduate as SAF Specialists

Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General (LG) Melvyn Ong inspecting the contingents on parade at the 39th Specialist Cadet Graduation Parade at Pasir Laba Camp.

Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General (LG) Melvyn Ong reviewed the 39th Specialist Cadet Graduation Parade at Pasir Laba Camp this evening. A total of 1,000 Specialist Cadets comprising 872 from the Singapore Army, 72 from the Republic of Singapore Navy, and 56 from the Republic of Singapore Air Force graduated as Specialists of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).

Addressing the graduands at the parade, LG Ong reminded the Specialists of the important role they play as leaders in the SAF. He said, "You shoulder the responsibility of leading and inspiring the soldiers under you to safeguard and ensure Singapore's sovereignty. Train them well, train them in their craft and train them safely. And above all, lead by example." Elaborating on the duty of leaders to their men, LG Ong added, "be good role models, and remember that every soldier counts. Centre your efforts on our soldiers. Build soldiers with a strong body, strong mind, and a strong heart – physically fit, mentally resilient and committed to loving Singapore and to the defence of it."

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 vocational expertise. Present at the parade were families and friends of the graduands as well as senior SAF officers.

SCT Muhammad Thaftazzani Bin Mohamad Tayib receiving the Golden Bayonet from LG Ong.

3SG Hari Haran s/o Jayakumar’s mother affixing the 3rd Sergeant rank on to his uniform at the parade.

The Specialists tossing their headdresses at the end of the parade.

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Speech by the Chief of Defence Force, Lieutenant-General Melvyn Ong, at the 39/18 Specialist Cadet Graduation Parade