Prime Minister (PM) Lee Hsien Loong paid tribute to the critical role National Servicemen (NSmen) have played in ensuring peace and prosperity for Singapore these past 45 years. PM Lee was speaking at the 45 Years of National Service Commemoration Dinner, with the theme "From Fathers to Sons", held at Marina Bay Floating Platform this evening.

At the dinner, PM Lee launched "NS is...", a commemorative book comprising stories and photos reflecting the unique spirit of National Service as experienced by Singaporeans over the past generations. PM Lee also presented the "NSmen of the Year Award" to the 15 award winners in recognition of their dedication to National Service. In addition, PM Lee presented the "Full-time National Servicemen (NSF) of the Year Award" to eight representatives of the 66 award winners, as well as the commemorative book to several pre-enlistees, NSmen and NSFs. PM Lee also presented 18 employers with the Total Defence Awards for their support for National Service and defence.

The dinner was one of the key events organised by MINDEF and the SAF to honour the contributions and sacrifices made by our NSmen and NSFs towards the defence of our nation. More than 1,400 guests including NSmen, NSFs, employers, as well as members from the Government Parliamentary Committee for Defence and Foreign Affairs (GPC-DFA) and the Advisory Council on Community Relations in Defence (ACCORD) were present at the dinner.

45 years of National Service was commemorated this year with a host of events. These included the Army Open House, the SAF Day Parade, National Day and the NS45 Showcase@ Our Heartlands. These events reflect the strong and consistent public support for National Service and every Singaporean's personal commitment to defence.