As we wrap up the year of NS55, we spoke to First Warrant Officer (1WO) (NS) K.Surindranath about his NS experience and what inspired him to continue to serve under the Reservist on Voluntary Extended Reserve Service (ROVERS) scheme. 1WO (NS) K.Surindranath 'ROVERS' for 7 years, and another 7 years as a Volunteer (VOL) in the Army Volunteer Scheme!

The ROVERS scheme allows our NSmen to continue serving NS until the statutory age of 40 years old for Warrant Officers, Military Experts, Specialists and Enlistees (WOSEs). Upon completion of ROVERS, our service personnel have the option to continue further as a VOL.

Can you share with us briefly what do you do in NS and as a civilian? 

Nice to meet you. I am 1WO (NS) K.Surindranath, BSM, 56 SAB. I have trained with the M113 Ultra platform previously during my days as a Full-time National Serviceman (NSF). Apart from serving as a BSM, I work as an Administration Manager in Kheng Cheng School, where I assist in the general administration of the school as well as overseeing student-related matters.

Then-2WO (NS) K.Surindranath serving as Regiment Sergeant Major (RSM) at the Milestone Parade for 434th Battalion, Singapore Armoured Regiment (434 SAR)
 

How has your experience been in our Army? Can you share with us some of your most memorable moments in your journey with our Army?

1WO (NS) K.Surindranath, Brigade Sergeant Major (BSM), 56th Singapore Armoured Brigade (56 SAB)

My overall experience throughout my NS journey has been a very positive and enriching one. The invaluable experience gained from interacting with soldiers from different generations definitely made me richer in life’s experiences, enabling me to navigate through life with a shared common experience.

1WO (NS) K.Surindranath sharing his NS experience at Kheng Cheng School

A moment to remember when crossing a water obstacle with unit mates!

One of my most memorable moments was during my active NSF days when my unit attained a REDCON 1* result in our ATEC evaluation. It was a proud moment as we were the first unit to attain an overseas REDCON 1 status.

* REDCON 1 is the highest possible certification a unit can receive in their Army Training Evaluation Centre (ATEC) evaluation.

How do you think your time in service has helped you/shaped you in your life?

Firstly, the discipline gained from serving in the Army has allowed me to plan and achieve my objectives at work. In addition, I have been granted an opportunity to interact with soldiers from different generations and that has allowed me to gain valuable insights. The skills and values I have gained during my time with our Army have empowered me to better understand people and aided me greatly in my communications and interactions during my course of work as well.

1WO (NS) K.Surindranath engaging his NSmen during their first In-Camp Training (ICT)

How do you juggle familial obligations and work duties, while serving our nation with our Army?

It is not easy to juggle family and work, while also serving National Service. In my opinion, it is all about our priorities and what we perceive to be important to us. Contributing to the defence of our country is everyone’s responsibility. I feel that it is an essential cornerstone of our life, and I will always make time to serve my NS commitments to the best of my abilities, whenever duty calls. 

Then-Commander 56 SAB, Colonel (COL) (NS) Chua Chung Kiat Desmond (left) returning compliments to the parade, accompanied by BSM, 1WO (NS) K.Surindranath (right).

What spurred you on to extend your time in service through the ROVERS scheme and continue volunteering in the NS Volunteer scheme?

I started participating in the ROVERS scheme back in June 2008, and subsequently joined the NS Volunteer scheme in 2015. I had hoped to be able to contribute effectively to our Army and the nation as a whole. I see it as an opportunity to act as a mentor to the younger soldiers and to share valuable advice, experiences and knowledge with them.

I would say that the the main reason behind my decision to extend my time with our Army as I feel useful in being able to contribute effectively to the Army and the nation as a whole. I see this as my way of doing my part for my country. National defence is everyone’s responsibility and we should use our abilities to effectively contribute to the cause. It is very encouraging to see the younger NSmen looking up to you and am able to motivate them to do their best during NS training. 
 

What does ‘NS55’ mean to you?

NS55 is a significant milestone in our history as it has shown the success of our initiative. As society races ahead, technology has evolved over time and has been positively influential in the way our armed forces have transformed and currently operates. However, the training standards and professionalism remain unchanged, which is to ensure that we are able to mobilise a well-trained and highly efficient fighting force within a short notice.
 

Do you have any words of appreciation you would like to convey to your family and our service personnel?

I would like to thank my family for their support as it is not possible to pursue these objectives without their support. As an NSman, having the peace of mind that things at home are well taken care of and the fact that your family is proud of your contributions to the nation, encourages me to always give my very best when serving my country.

Celebrating important NS milestones with the family such as the BSM Change of Appointment Ceremony 

I would like to thank all NSmen, both past and present, for their contributions to our country.  It is a privilege and honour to be an NSman. We should embrace this opportunity as it is our way of doing our part for society. Keep up the good work and we should never take what we have for granted.
 

Meet the members of the 56 SAB Family!

✍️ : LCP Satish (Army News)
📷 : LCP Nicholas Long (Army News) and contributed by 1WO (NS) K.Surindranath