Chief of Army,
Pioneers, Officers, Warrant Officers, Specialists and Soldiers from the 2nd People's Defence Force,
First of all good afternoon to all of you.

Today, all of us are gathered to commemorate the 50th year of the establishment of the 2nd People's Defence Force (2PDF Command).  It's a special occasion especially because it's also Singapore's Golden Jubilee. I am delighted that many of you, who have served in 2 PDF Command before, including key pioneers, are joining us today to mark this historic occasion together.

2PDF's Rich History

When the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) was formed in 1965, 2 PDF Command already had a military tradition, as its roots go further back, to the Singapore Volunteer Corps in 1854, formed more than a century before Singapore became (independent). It was the pioneers of 2 PDF Command that were deployed to protect Singapore through periods of civil unrest, through the Communist threat and Konfrontasi. These pioneers witnessed firsthand and up-close the struggles of early Singapore. They will never forget those experiences. Pioneers like 2SG (Ret) Said Bin Ali, who is here with us today, lived through the bombing of MacDonald House and the violence during Konfrontasi. These experiences convinced people like Mr. Said that we all have to do our part to defend our country or risk being intimidated and cowed by others.

This strong military tradition to protect our homeland is continued today as 2 PDF Command soldiers protect key installations like Jurong Island, Changi Airport, Sembawang Wharves, and must be the first responders to civil emergencies together with other homeland agencies.

Commissioning of PRVs

As new challenges emerge that threaten our citizens here, 2 PDF Command must adapt to fulfill its mission. The current threats from extremist groups like ISIS and ISIS-inspired lone-wolf attacks are clear and present, and affect all countries globally. In Singapore too, we have people who have been radicalised. 2 PDF Command must therefore continue to update its doctrine, tactics and equipment to meet these new challenges.

Today, we mark another milestone in growing new capabilities for 2 PDF Command by commissioning the Protected Response Vehicles (PRVs), named the Peacekeeper, which will provide better means for 2 PDF Command to keep Singapore's key installations and facilities safe. The Peacekeeper has more capabilities than the previously used V200 armoured vehicles. The Peacekeeper has greater mobility and more precise firepower with a remote-controlled weapon station. It has a laser range finder and thermal imaging capabilities. The Peacekeeper will also provide our servicemen with better protection against dangerous threats such as Improvised Explosive Devices.

Many of you here will remember the V200 armoured vehicles. These will be phased out progressively from 2016, the V200 has served us well for 40 years. I know that many NSmen have very fond memories of operating this reliable workhorse, even though it required a lot of time to wash and grease. MAJ (Ret) Ang Taw Hai, a pioneer from the Armour Support Unit, remembered how protected and safe he felt in his V200 and I'm sure, like many, the V200 holds a special place in his and many other hearts.

With its strong military traditions, 2 PDF Command has a rich heritage of values, which epitomise dedication and selfless service to our nation.  As we look to the next 50 years, I am confident that 2 PDF Command will continue this rich tradition of its pioneers, to defend our nation, to be Vigilant in peace and Steadfast in war.

Thank You.