ISSUE 221 MARCH 2014

HIGHLIGHTS
SSPP | TOTAL DEFENCE 2014 | HISTORY: HIJACKING OF SQ117

www.mindef.gov.sg/army
#OurSgArmy
C O V E R S TO RY
CONTENTS
15 1CDO’s SSPP WITH V J C 16 APPRECIATING O UR SERV IC E M E N
17 TOTAL DEFENCE DAY @ B O ON L AY SECONDARY

AROUND OUR ARMY

3 REMEMBERING THE PAST FOR A SAFER, STRONGER TOMORROW
/ 30 YEARS O F TOTAL DEFENCE
4 SINGAPO RE AIRSHOW 2014 B OMB SWEEP
/ SAF NSMEN APPRECIATION DINNER 2014

FE ATU R E S
5 CO MBAT DINING-IN/ MP GRAND SL AM AWARD 2013 6 S H A RI NG A
LESSO N ON LEADERSHIP 7 WOSPEC: CO NTINUO US LEARN I NG 8 CL A S S
DEGREE SPO NSO RSHIP 10 CO NFRONTATIO N 14 TOTAL D E F E NCE 2 014
18 WELL-TRAINED, WELL DONE! 19 WITH PATIENCE & RES I L I E NCE 2 0
OPERATIO N EV EREST 22 THE HIJ ACKING OF SQ 117

- - - - - - - - ISSUE 221
MARCH 2014
 Our Army

Editorial Board
COL Alfred Fox
the
Editor Speaks
COL Chua Boon Keat
SLTC Paul Cheak
LTC De Silva Joe Ronesh
LTC Dennis Oh
CWO Tang Peck Oon

F
MAJ Phillip Wong Meng Kong
LTC (NS) James Suresh
CPT (NS) Sebastian Sim ebruary may have been a short month, but for Our
Army it was business as usual. From protecting our key
Editorial Advisor installations to engaging schools in the SAF Schools
BG Perry Lim Partnership Program; from presentation of weapons to
remembering our past in Total Defence events island wide,
Our Army continues to demonstrate its commitment to
News Crew defence, and engage all our stakeholders in the process.
Editor Photographers
Our soldiers from 806 SIR performed their duties during the Chinese New Year
Mel Ferdinands Boey Jun Wei
Lim Wei Liang Holiday, but each soldier received a very personalised letter from students of North
Matthew Lim Vista Primary School and Huamin Primary School.
Deputy Editor
Melvin Loo Terrance Yee
Roy Chong 49 years ago, Singapore suffered a series of bomb attacks during the period of Remembering the past for a safer,
Assistant
Editors
Aaron Ng Confrontation or Konfrontasi. This issue looks at what the confrontation was about,
and how we must never forget the importance of a strong and credible SAF in stronger tomorrow.
Lim Chen You Graphic safeguarding our sovereignty. Photography by Lim Chen You
Aloysius Lum Designers
Koh Jian Le In this issue, we also look at Leadership Lessons and Learning for our Officers and On 10 March, the SAF Veterans League (SVL) organised a Memorial ceremony to
Writers Marcus Yeo remember the McDonald House Bombing and victims of the Konfrontasi. Guest of Honour
WOSPECs and we recognise our specialists who have continued to strive to better
Jotham Yeo themselves through the Continuous Learning Academic Study Scheme (CLASS). was Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, Mr. Lawrence Wong. Also in
Edmund Heng Facebook attendance were Senior Minister of State Dr Mohamad Maliki Osman and Chief Defence
Daniel Yong Representative Force LG Ng Chee Meng.
Lee Xiang Rong March is also a time that marks the start of spring in seasonal countries. Spring
Oon Ming Shen
Leong Kee Shuen is about renewal, when flowers bloom again. As we sow the seeds of our new
generation with hopes of a rich harvest, we must stay focussed and committed in The event was attended by members of the SVL, representatives from School Uniformed
defending and safeguarding our tomorrows. Groups, and the general public. The ceremony was moving and emotional, especially for
some of the family members of the bomb victims.
Melvin S Ferdinands
Editor of Army News For information on Konfrontasi, please go to page 10

Army News would like to thank (from

left) Jotham Yeo Mu Xin and Daniel Yong
Kaijie for their service and contributions
during their stint in Army News.
ARMY NEWS is a monthly publication of the
Singapore Army. The opinions and views in
this newsletter are those expressed by the
writers and do not reflect the official views of
the Ministry of Defence. All rights reserved.
Subjected to the provisions of the Copyright
Act, 1986, no part of this publication may
in any form or by any means (electronic,
mechanical, microcopying, photocopying,
recording or otherwise) be reproduced or
transmitted without prior written permission
from the publisher.
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We would like to thank the students at Hua Min Primary and North Vista Primary for their
appreciation to our servicemen at guard. Read more in our feature on page16.
fb.me/oursingaporearmy
@oursingaporearmy
30 Years of Total Defence:
Because You Played A Part
- An Experiential Showcase
Story by Daniel Yong / Photography by Lim Wei Liang
A 9-day Experiential Showcase at the
National Museum of Singapore was set up
to celebrate Singapore’s 30 years of Total
Defence. On 15 February 2014, Defence
Minister, Dr. Ng Eng Hen, officially launched
the showcase which lasted till 23 February.
This showcase was set up by our Combat
Engineers from 30th Battalion, Singapore
Combat Engineers (30 SCE) and allowed
the public to try our field rations, have a
hands-on experience with our SAR 21 rifle
and METEX and also for children to put on
our kid-sized uniforms.
During Defence Minister’s visit to the
showcase, he shared the importance of
Total Defence, “The message (for Total
@oursgarmy youtube.com/OurSingaporeArmy Defence) is the same one that all of us have
thesingaporearmy.tumblr.com a part to play in Total Defence, and that if
we can each play our part, and believe in
what we are protecting, and defend our
way of life, then we can secure the future
for our next generation.”
The public that visited our booth enjoyed
themselves thoroughly. Brothers Azrael
and Balkar Singh, aged 4 and 3 respectively,
had their fill of fun. Their mother, Simha
Kaur, said, “My sons really enjoy going
down to army-related exhibitions and they
really enjoy putting on the uniforms. Total
Defence has been important to Singapore
as it keeps us safe and I do not have to
worry about my family’s and my safety
here, and this could not be possible if not
for everyone’s efforts. To the soldiers: keep
up the good work and we are proud of you.”

3
Our Army
Singapore AirShow 2014 Bomb Sweep
Story and photography by Daniel Yong
The Singapore Airshow 2014 opened to
the public on the 15 and 16 February 2014,
and this event has always attracted a large
crowd. Being Asia’s biggest aviation event
and conducted on such a large scale, the
safety and security of every single member
involved in this event is very important.
For such events in Singapore, the SAF has
and always will play a part in keeping the
people safe.
Prior to the opening, security and
safety checks behind the scenes were
long running. One such check was the
bomb sweep conducted by our Explosive
Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and Chemical,
Biological, Radiological and Explosive
(CBRE) teams, from 36th Battalion,
Singapore Combat Engineer (36 SCE) and
SAF NSmen’s Appreciation Dinner 2014
Story by Daniel Yong / Photography by Matthew Lim
4 MARCH 2014
39 SCE respectively. During the bomb
sweep, soldiers from both teams physically
check all locations. Should there be any
inaccessible locations or items, the dogs
from the Arms and Explosive Search (AES)
Dog Platoon are deployed to sniff out any
suspicious materials.
CPL Yeong Dickson, a dog handler from
the AES Dog Platoon attached to the EOD
unit, 36 SCE, shared his experience, “Being
part of the security and safety team in the
Singapore AirShow 2014 is really an eye-
opening experience as we get to see what
happens behind the scene. Prior to this
operation, the training provided by the unit
is very comprehensive and has prepared us
very well.”
On 27 Feburary 2014, the SAF NSmen’s
Appreciation Dinner was held at the Flower
Field Hall at Gardens By The Bay. This annual
appreciation dinner, graced by Chief of
Army, MG Ravinder Singh, is to honour and
to recognise the contributions of NSmen
who have relinquished
their NS appointments.
One of the NSmen
present at the annual
dinner and recognised
for extending his
service was 1WO (NS)
Toh Teck Chai Gary
(left). He shared, “What
motivated me to
extend my service was
my men. They always take their training very
seriously and that inspires me to work hard
for them and the country.” He recounted
the times when he was with his men; their
proud faces when they finished their final
training; and how proudly they marched
in their uniforms during their stand down
parade. To the younger generation who are
considering to extend their service beyond
the NS training cycle, this was what he had
to say: “Go for it and go for it all the way! If
you have the ability, just go on and pass on
your experiences to the next generation.”
Combat Dining-in
Story and photos contributed by MP Command
On 16 January 14, Commander SAF
MP Command, COL Ong Chia Choong
hosted an Inaugural Combat Dining-
In, the first Dining-In event since
MP Command’s formation in 1966.
Commander 2 PDF, BG Lam Shiu Tong
was the Guest of Honour. More Than
480 personnel from the MP Command
Family attended the Combat Dining-In.
Unlike usual Dining-Ins, participants
wore their Smart Combat No.4 .
The Dining In was held to
commemorate the conferring of the
new SAF MP Command’s Regimental
Colours on 1 Jul 13 and also to
celebrate the successful merger of SAF
MP Command, 1 SIB (8 and 9 SIR), the
SAF Band and Gombak Base.
Held a week after the inaugural MP
/ ST Recognition Day on 8 January 14,
the Combat Dining-In also served to
recognise the contributions of the
NSFs to the various units in the SAF
MP Command. In his speech, COL Ong
SAF Military Police Command
highlighted the diverse talents our NSFs
bring to their units and thanked the
NSFs for their sacrifices and service. Grand Slam Award 2013
Story and photos contributed by MP Command
3SG Brian, one of the Combat
Dining-In participants said: “This
In 2013, SAF MP Command embarked
event is a significant milestone in SAF
on a project to energise the Command
MP Command’s history and I had a
through sports. Besides getting all
memorable time bonding with fellow
members of the Command to participate
members from SAF MP Command.”
in sports, a key drive was to encourage
individuals to take up the challenge to
achieve the SAFSA Grand Slam award.
This award required participants to take
part in a series of three sporting events - a
running event of 10km or more, a cycling
event of 39km or more, and a multi-
discipline event with a total distance of
10km or more.
very thankful that he did.
58 individuals from SAF MP Command
took up the challenge and participated “Originally, I did not plan to achieve
in the Tri-Factor Bike 2013, Army Half the Grand Slam Award, but with proper
Marathon, and the Tri-Factor Dualthlon motivation, I took part and eventually
2013. And all 58 individuals were succeeded. I need to thank 2WO Anselm
presented with the awards by Commander Chelliah for being that motivating factor
2PDF, BG Lam Shiu Tong, during SAF MP and spurring me on.”
Command’s Cohesion Day on 24 January
2014. Another participant, MAJ See Gim Tat
said, “With 58 of us taking part in the
LTA Mathias Joel, SAF Detention events, the challenge served to bring us
Barracks Security Platoon Commander, closer and encouraged us to push beyond
was not keen to take up the challenge our limits. We are truly a Command
at first. However, looking back now, he is energised and bonded through sports.”
5
Our Army
“A leader managing a crisis has to keep a
cool head, ascertain the facts, engage team
members to find a solution, be prepared to
make difficult decisions, and above all, lead
by example.”
Sharing a Lesson
on Leadership
Story by Edmund Heng / Photography by Boey Jun Wei
The inaugural SAF Leadership
Development Seminar, held at SAFTI
MI on 6 of February 2014, saw former
Singapore President, Mr. S R Nathan,
along with many other prominent
guest speakers, share important
leadership qualities in front of more
than 600 SAF senior commanders
and Officers from the Goh Keng Swee
Command and Staff College (GKSCSC).
The audience was enraptured by what
the various presenters shared on the
important points of being a leader.
“A leader managing a crisis has to
keep a cool head, ascertain the facts,
engage team members to find a
solution, be prepared to make difficult
decisions, and above all, lead by
example.” Mr S R Nathan said during
the seminar, “The most important
quality is your inner strength, to be
able to provide leadership, face crisis,
give confidence to your men in what
they are doing, and the purpose of
what they are doing.”
A guest speaker from the United
States Army, Colonel (Retired) Todd
James Ebel, who is currently the
Assistant Professor from the Command
and General Staff College, Fort
Leavenworth, shared the importance
of a strong leader.
“A strong leader is important in any
organisation. He builds a team and
in that process of building a team,
6 MARCH 2014
- Mr. S R Nathan
Colonel (Retired) Todd James Ebel (center) from the US Army
provides purpose, context, motivation
and inspiration so they direct where
the organisation is going to continue to
add value to not just the organisation
but to those they serve, such as the
customer or in the context of an Armed
Force, the nation.”
Colonel Ebel then emphasised the
important traits of being a good leader,
“A leader has to build trust, which
means he or she has to be competent
and reliable. Secondly, they need to
have a high sense of character and
honour to provide the moral compass
to the organisation. A leader also has
to be empathetic, where they put
themselves into positions of the ones
they serve. Finally they have to be
willing to learn from others that are not
like them; to appreciate the diversity
that would inform their perspectives.”
A strong leader represents everybody
in any institution and organisation.
Having a seminar such as this, hosted
by the SAF Centre for Leadership
Development (CLD) allows personnel
from the SAF to learn the best methods
for leadership development from
others.
The most salient and unquestionable
point in all the speeches and dialogues
was that having a strong leader
is important. However it is always
important and essential to continue
improving oneself as a leader.
Our Army
WOSPEC:
Continuous Learning
Story written by Jotham Yeo / Photography by Roy Chong and Contributed by SWO Tan Chun Kiat
In the recent 3rd Command and
Staff Course (CSC) (Executive), it
was revealed that for the first time,
warrant officers participated in CSC
(E). This reinforces the position that
the SAF recognizes the importance of
continuous learning for not only the
officers, but also the Warrant Officers
and Specialists (WOSpecs). During
this course, the warrant officers and
officers will be able to share their
expertise, experience and perspective
with each other, enriching the learning
experience. The warrant officers will
also gain greater knowledge and
strategic context of the SAF and also
understand some of the officer-centric
roles and processes. in this pilot programme. SWO Tan
shared, “This initiative will allow us
Commandant of Goh Keng Swee to better assess what should be the
Command and Staff College, COL Ng way ahead in developing our warrant
Wai Kit said, “I think having selected officers. It is also a reflection of our
warrant officers to join the officers in senior leadership’s recognition of the
their professional military education Warrant Officer Corps as well as their
and training, such as CSC, is timely and commitment in developing our warrant
is reflective of how the 3G SAF operates officers to play an active role in the
in peace time and in operations. For Officer-Warrant Officer partnership.”
the SAF to be efficient and effective,
each corps would need to bring their Another participant, Specialist and
expertise and knowledge in a synergistic Warrant Officer Institute (SWI) Chief me to take on the expanded roles
way to meet evolving challenges.” Master Trainer, SWO Tamizh Kannan and responsibilities on the on-going
was very honoured to be one of the journey of WOSPEC re-profiling efforts
One of the warrant officers selected trailblazers for the Warrant Officer and enhancing the partnership with
for the 3rd CSC (E), Singapore Corps to attend CSC (E). He said, “This the Commissioned Officers and Military
Combat Engineers (SCE) Formation course will open up new insights, Expert Officers.”
Sergeant Major, SWO Tan Chun Kiat new knowledge, new experience and
felt very privileged to participate will create capacities that will enable
7
Our People
CLASS Degree Sponsorship:
Soldiers Who Keep Learning
Story by Lim Wei Liang / Photosgraphy by Lim Wei Liang and contributed by 3WO Neo and 1SG Sng
Campus life: 3WO Neo (extreme left) and 1SG Sng (2nd row, extreme right) also found the time to take part in
recreational activities with their schoolmates
Two of our Warrant Officers and
Specialists (WOSPECs) were given the
opportunity to pursue a university
education under the Continuous Learning
Academic Study Scheme (CLASS). The
CLASS programme was introduced in
2001 to allow outstanding WOSPECs to
pursue higher academic studies in tertiary
institutions, up to degree level courses.
Despite being away from school for
some time, 3WO Neo Kim Choon and
1SG Sng Ping Yi performed well in their
undergraduate studies, achieving upper
second class honours in their Computer
Science degree at Nanyang Technological
University (NTU). We speak to them on their
undergraduate experience.
Currently a WOSPEC Trainer at the Infantry
Training Institute (ITI), 3WO Neo has been
serving in the Army for 12 years. At the time,
3WO Neo decided to embark on a career
with the Army after his polytechnic studies
as he has found that he enjoyed military life
while doing his National Service.
In 2009, 3WO Neo was invited to pursue
undergraduate studies under CLASS. He
8 MARCH 2014
3WO Neo admitted that the real challenge
during his undergraduate studies came
from having to juggle between studies and
family commitments. “While in university, I
had the added responsibility of fulfilling my
commitments as a father and a husband. In
fact, my second child was born during my
final year examinations. That period was
especially trying for me as I not only had
to revise for my exams, but also had to take
care of my newborn child as well,” he said.
When asked for the reason as to why
they chose to pursue a degree in Computer
Science, both men attributed it to the fact
that it was related to the diploma course
they have taken in Polytechnic, which
were IT-related. 1SG Sng added that he
was driven by his interest in computers. He
said, “I developed a passion for computers
since secondary school. Naturally, when I
was offered the opportunity by the Army
to take up university studies, I chose to read
Computer Science, for it’s what I love the
most.”
3WO Neo felt that his 4-year journey, as
an undergraduate student in Computer
Science had been a fruitful one. During
Army as a regular to serve his bond. Soon his time in NTU, he had the opportunity
after, he applied for the CLASS Degree to work with a variety of people in his
Sponsorship Award and was successful. He projects and assignments. He also learnt
attended NTU, where he read a degree in more than just computing and IT. 3WO
Computer Science with 3WO Neo.  Neo said, “Other than the hard skills I’ve
acquired during my studies, I’ve also picked
A sense of pride as soldiers also provided up soft skills that will be useful to me in my
decided to take up the offer. It would prove them with the drive to excel in their studies. career. These include the ability to manage
to be a life-changing decision. He said, “As soldiers, we had the desire to excel in our and communicate with a group of people
“Returning to school after so many years in studies. This is to realise our full potential, effectively. As a trainer and a commander,
the Army, I felt a culture shock at first. Life the potential that the Army sees in us when these will benefit me greatly.”
as a student is very different from that of a we were given the CLASS award,” said 1SG
soldier.” Sng. University life was not all work and no
play, however, as 3WO Neo also found the
His coursemate and fellow CLASS Award time to enjoy his pastime of angling, and
recipient 1SG Sng agrees. “As a student, was even the Vice-President of NTU Anglers’
you have to take ownership of your own Club.
learning. The pace of study in university
is much more intense compared to As they have completed their
polytechnic. That means spending many undergraduate studies and are now waiting
hours in the library to make sure that you for their convocation in July, the two
are able to understand what was being WOSPECs are looking forward to a more
taught in lessons,” he said. exciting career after receiving their degrees.
With the skills that they have learnt during
A Platoon Sergeant in the 3rd Battalion, their undergraduate studies, they hope
Singapore Infantry Regiment (3 SIR), 1SG to better contribute to the technological
Sng has the distinction of being the first development of the Singapore Army.
graduate Platoon Sergeant in our Army’s
history. 1SG Sng also hopes to be able to do his
parents proud with the achievement of
After his O levels, 1SG Sng obtained a his degree. He said, “As my family was not
sponsorship under the Joint Polytechnic- well-to-do, my parents had a difficult time
SAF Diploma Scheme (JPSDS) to pursue bringing my 3 siblings and I up. I hope that
a Diploma in Engineering Informatics at the achievement of my degree will be a
Nanyang Polytechnic, where he attained good way to repay my parents’ kindness,
3WO Neo conducting training
a Diploma with Merit. He then joined the 1SG Sng (front, left) taking part in a group discussion with his lecturers in NTU and to do them proud.”
9
Cover Story
The
Confrontation
(or Konfrontasi)
has been a buzzword
in the last few weeks.
Due to recent events,
Konfrontasi featured
heavily in the
mainstream news In the years following the end of
World War 2, Nationalism was rife in
and social networks. many of the liberated countries . The
Federation of Malaysia was formed –
But what exactly consisting of West Malaysia, Sabah,
Sarawak and Singapore.
was Konfrontasi all President Sukarno of Indonesia
objected to this, and initiated a policy
about? of confrontation. The Philippines
aligned with Indonesia due to its own
claim on Sabah, but did not participate
in any of the hostilities, only breaking
off diplomatic ties with Malaysia. No
all out war was declared but numerous
raids were carried out on targets
within the newly formed Federation.
Singapore was not spared in these
raids.
Indonesian saboteurs mounted
a campaign of terror in Singapore.
Their intended targets were military
installations and public utilities.
However, these were heavily guarded
so the saboteurs set off bombs
indiscriminately to create panic
and disrupt life on the island. Bomb
explosions became frequent. The First
and Second Battalions, Singapore
Infantry Regiment (1 SIR and 2 SIR)
10 MARCH 2014
were deployed in various parts of
Malaya to defend against saboteurs
and other hostile acts
Despite all efforts, small groups
of saboteurs managed to sneak into
Singapore and plant bombs. Among
the 42 bomb attacks were a blast
on a water main in St Francis Road,
a car destroyed by an explosion in
the Odeon Cinema carpark in North
Bridge Road, bombs in Geylang Serai,
Katong Park, Meyer Road (opposite
the Ambassador Hotel) and Sennett
Estate.
One of the more infamous incidents took place at
McDonald House along Dhoby Ghaut on 10 March 1965.
Three people were killed and thirty three were injured. At
the time of the bombing, the Australian High Commission
and the Japanese Consulate were also at McDonald House.
Within four days, Singaporean police arrested the two
Indonesian saboteurs who turned out to be from the Korps
Marinir ( The Indonesia Marine Corps). As they were dressed
as civilians and had targeted a civilian building, the men
were tried in Singapore for the murder of the three people
who died in the blast. They were convicted of murder and
hanged in 1968.
During the height of Konfrontasi, Singapore was expelled
from the Malaysian Federation on 9 August 1965 due to the
ongoing political stalemate between the political parties of
the Malaysian government with its respective power bases
in Malaya and Singapore. Although Indonesia's tactics
of covert infiltrations had no direct effect on Malaysia's
internal stability, Singapore's expulsion was seized upon by
Indonesia as evidence that the Federation of Malaysia was
an artificial British construct as Indonesia had consistently
claimed.
Confrontation and the ensuing hostilities ended with the
overthrow of President Sukarno in 1965.
However, the executions remained a source of
unhappiness in Singapore-Indonesian relations for some
time. During a visit to Indonesia in 1973, then Prime
Minister Mr Lee Kuan Yew sprinkled flowers on the graves
of the Marines, helping to heal the rift between the two
countries.
11
12 MARCH 2014 13
Feature
Total Defence 2014
Story by Edmund Heng / Photography by Boey Jun Wei
Total Defence day plays a significant part
in Singapore’s history, it stands to remind us
that while we may be enjoying a long spell
of peace and security, we should never take
such peace for granted. In line with Total
Defence activities this year, the Recruits from
3rd Battalion, Singapore Guards (3 GDS),
were presented their weapons at the Civilian
War Memorial in the heart of Singapore.
This is the 2nd consecutive year where the
weapon presentation was held at the War
Memorial. It signifies the start of their Basic
Military Training. As part of the Total Defence
commemoration, a flower wreath was laid on
the base of the War Memorial to remember
those who lost their lives more than 70 years
ago.
The event was graced by many who were
associated with the SAF, marking an important
day for the service. Chief of Defence Force,
LG Ng Chee Meng, students of the National
Cadet Corps (NCC) and members of the SAF
Veterans’ League were all present to witness
the event.
As heads bowed down, silence settled
over the War Memorial as everyone in
attendance paid their respects to the people
who died during World War II. The Total
Defence Message, like so many before this
one, continues to reaffirm the five pillars of
Total Defence -Social Defence, Psychological
Defence, Economic Defence, Civil Defence
and Military Defence.
14 MARCH 2014
“Each of us has a part to play to make sure the SAF remains strong and
ready,” Commanding Officer of 3 GDS, LTC Joseph Lin, said during the
weapon presentation, “Singaporeans must never again allow what is ours
to be taken away. Like many others before you, you will play your part to
defend our home. That is why you stand here today, doing your National
Service. In front of this memorial, you will affirm your commitment to the
defending of our Singapore.”
When all the Recruits had received their weapons, they recited the pledge
to reaffirm their dedication. The words ‘I hereby swear before this flag,
that I will be brave, honourable, disciplined, vigilant and I will take
good care of my rifle at all times!’ echoed throughout the War Memorial.
LTC Lin said regarding the presentation, “Soldiers of 3 GDS, receive your
weapon, knowing that your country trusts that you will put it to good use.
Take care of your weapon and it will take care of you.”
The men and women in attendance were reminded how quickly
Singapore fell. On February the 8th 1942, the Japanese Imperial Army
attacked us and in a matter of seven days, Singapore was lost. We may
be able to read all these stories from books, watch documentaries on the
events or even watch a film depicting it, but with Total Defence, everyone
will want to ensure that the events of the second world war will not repeat
itself and that we never have to experience what our forefathers went
through.
Cover Story
It was an unusual sight: among the sea of
white school uniforms was a small group of
pixelized green uniforms and red berets. As
part of the SAF-Schools Partnership Program
(SSPP), the 1st Commando Battalion (1CDO)
went to Victoria Junior College (VJC) on 21
February to let the students have a taste of
the army. From combat rations to weapons to
airborne parachutes, it was a day of fun and
engagement for both students and soldiers
alike.
Being alumni of VJC, 2SG Tan Jian You, a
detachment sergeant, and CPL Darren Han,
For Honour and Glory:
1CDO’s SSPP
a weapon specialist, contributed heavily to
the planning of the SSPP. 2SG Tan said, “This
event lets the students know more about
NS and exposes them to the army. It also
boosts their pride in the fighting capabilities
with VJC
of the SAF.” CPL Han added, “The students
were enthusiastic in trying out the exhibition
booths prepared for them. I hope that we can
continue to have more such activities to let
future generations know more about NS and
to increase their appreciation for the soldiers.”
There was an exhibit showcasing the various Story by Oon Ming Shen / Photography by Leong Khee Shuen and Matthew Lim
weapons that were used by the commandos,
and many students took the opportunity to
have a feel of the weapons. Dhiraj Chainani,
a JC2 student, commented, “It’s interesting
to see the different types of weapons and
learn how they work. Although I’ve only had
a sampler of the army, I think it seems quite
exciting. I am definitely looking forward to
some aspects of the army.” Another student,
Jasmine Tan, added, “This exhibition is very
interesting and informative. I think it’s cool!”
One of the highlights of the SSPP was a booth
that displayed the parachutes used during
airborne jumps – the trademark specialty of
the commandos. 1CDO had invited a member
of the Red Lions Parachuting Team to engage
the students. Lorren Tong, a JC2 student, tried
out the different parachutes. This was what he
said: “It’s cool as we get to see a lot of different
things. After looking at the exhibits, I hope
to make the best out of my 2 years in NS like
what the soldiers are doing.”
Finally, the students had a fun time going
around the campus to search for a sniper who
was wearing a ghillie suit and had hidden
amongst foliage. He was so well-disguised that
even passing him from the front, the students
could not identify him. The sniper said, “It’s
a great opportunity for 1CDO to show what
we do to the students. I hope that they could
learn more about the army through this SSPP.
I hope that they have a great time in their
NS journey – I enjoy what I do, and was very
happy to have enlisted into the commandos.”
15
Feature
Appreciating
our Servicemen
Story by Edmund Heng / Photos by Lim Chen You and Contributed by 806 SIR
Keeping our island safe is the duty
of every man and woman in the SAF,
especially during the public holidays such
as The Lunar New Year when we may be
perceived to be relaxed and vulnerable.
It is therefore important for us to show
the servicemen that we know what they
are doing for us, they sacrifice their
holidays and their time with families so
that we can happily enjoy ours. Yet to the
general public, these sacrifices usually go
unnoticed, so during the Lunar New Year
this year, the men from 806th Battalion,
16 MARCH 2014
Singapore Infantry Regiment (806SIR) were
in for a surprise when they received a small
letter of appreciation from the students of
North Vista Primary School and Huamin
Primary School.
It may not seem like an extravagant gift,
but the men of 806SIR were nonetheless
touched to receive such an act of kindness.
It served as a reminder on what they were
protecting and it was also a lesson for the
students to educate themselves that the
peace that they enjoy is something they
cannot take for granted.
Considering the young ages of the
students of the two primary schools, the
principal of Huamin Primary School, Mr
Edmund Lim, said, “It may still be some time
before the students go to national service,
but it is important for them not to take
peace for granted. I think it will also give
the students a chance to learn more about
national service and what the men in the
SAF do during their duties.”
Cover Story
Total Defence Day @
Boon Lay Secondary
Story by Leong Khee Shuen / Photos by Lim Wei Liang
Students from Boon Lay Secondary
school expressed their love for Singapore
on Valentine’s Day, 14 February, when
soldiers from the 9th Army Maintenance
Base (9AMB) conducted their SAF Schools
partnership programme (SSPP) in
conjunction with Total Defence Day. Total
Defence Day, held annually on 15 February, Students from the lower secondary
reminds Singaporeans of what we stand to initially stumbled when they had to carry
lose if we are unable to defend ourselves, the half filled Jerry cans across the field at
For the students of North Vista Primary and that everyone has a part to play in the Supply station. Joanna Tan from class
School, they were assured to know that one defending our country. 1NT felt that the Jerry cans were unstable,
of their former teachers, LTA (NS) Ahmad especially when running, due to the water
Zohri Bakri, was doing his duties while The day started off with a Total Defence swishing about. However, she persevered
they were having their reunion dinners Parade where soldiers, along with the and made it through to the end. The
and enjoying their holidays. LTA (NS) Zohri students from the St John’s Ambulance Medical station where participants were
was the Head of Department for PE / CCA Brigade and the Boy’s Brigade, marched taught how to bandage an injured person
& Aesthetics from 2008 – 2013. In uniform in unison in front of the school before was the station that the students enjoyed
though, he is the Platoon Commander for reciting the pledge and singing the most. Being the lightest in the team, Jason
806 alpha company. National anthem. A MSER (Main Supply Koh from class 3/6 said that he initially felt
and Evacuation Route) challenge was held embarrassed when he was placed on the
The students of Huamin also got a afterwards where 10 teams participated in stretcher and was the “casualty”. However,
treat when 8SIR brought Trigger, an the 3 stations - namely Supply, Medical and it was the turning point in the race and his
English Springing Spaniel, (a sniffer Maintenance. team, team 5, eventually won first place in
dog) to their school which got them all the challenge.
extremely excited. During their morning
assemblies, representatives from 806SIR The last station tested each participant’s
told the students the importance of their memory where they had to look at pictures
Operational duties before they received of tools and locate them in the box across
their letters of appreciation from the the field. David Lee from class 4/7 said:”
students. Perseverance and teamwork were the
key factors that allowed us to win this
The students were encouraged to be challenge.” Rec Jerald Ong Jun Yuan said:”
as creative as possible and design a card Good maintenance is essential for the
which they would send to the servicemen, support for the front line. This event gives
to brighten up their day while they were the students more exposure to what we do.”
doing their duties - the protection of key Indeed, the participants left with smiles on
installations such as Changi International their faces as well as a lasting impression
Airport and Jurong Island. that Our Army is always prepared.
17
Our People
Well-
trained,
Well Done!
Steven Misson, previously an Infantry
Warrant Officer (2WO) from Officer Cadet
School Weapon Team, has shown us how
Story by Daniel Yong/ Photos contributed it is possible to put to good use the skills
by Steven Misson learnt during his time in the Army. From
2009 to 2011, Mr Steven Misson travelled
to Afghanistan to help manage de-mining
projects after leaving service in 2009.
Serving in Our Army for 32 years, Steven
was eager to try new things out and
wanted to put his skills and the values he
had acquired during his service to good
use. In 2008, together with 5 other Army
personnel, he started making plans to
venture to Afghanistan to see if he could
provide any form of help, and he found an
opportunity to do so.
For the next two years, spending one year
in Kabul and another in Kandahar, Steven’s
job was to manage a staff of local miners
to survey and clear land mines that were
mostly planted during the Soviet War in
Afghanistan. Reality hit Steven hard when
he landed and saw what was happening
at one of the airports in Afghanistan. Upon
arrival at Afghanistan, what greeted him
was not the warm welcome we would
receive upon arrival at any peaceful country.
What greeted him then was the seriousness
and tense mood of a country constantly on
alert – on his day of arrival, the airport was
on one of its highest states of alert, with
fully equipped soldiers and cars patrolling
and guarding the premises. Steven recalled,
“The air was so tense and everyone was on
alert. Although it was a little intimidating
and overwhelming at first, I felt that I could
handle the situation since I am familiar with
instances of tension and seriousness during
exercises while in service.”
Steven Misson was also surprised to see
how similar the set-ups and practices at
the mining sites were, to the way Our Army
trains and practises. Going on site, he felt
like he was seemingly back to one of the
trainings or camps of Our Army and easily
fit in well. Throughout his two years there,
Steven also shared that the values, and not
just skills, that he inculcated during his time
in service served him well in Afghanistan.
He shared, “The discipline I developed
18 MARCH 2014
from my time in the Army is very important
when I am out in the field, as it keeps me
very focused on the task. A small mistake
could result in serious consequences.
Therefore, safety precautions are also
highly emphasised. Having been there, I
have also tried to bring some of the SAF’s
safety practices over. For example, I make
sure that the team knows where the nearest
hospital is and what the fastest route to get
there is.”
While it has been a very meaningful
experience to Steven, his eyes showed that
he wanted to do more when he recounted
instances when he witnessed the state of
poverty that the people in Afghanistan
face. He hopes to inspire more people to do
good, saying, “Sometimes, I wish I was still
in service so that I can share this experience
with the soldiers.” Whist looking at Steven’s
post service experience, many of us may
feel that the combat skills we learn during
our National Service might not be relevant
when we are working in the corporate
world, but the values that we inculcated
during our short time in Our Army stay with
us and remain relevant throughout our
lives.
With Patience & Resilience
Enlistment entails a major transition in the
lives of recruits as they leave the comfort of
civilian life and join the military, where they
have to grapple with strict discipline and
regimentation. Additionally, they may face
problems outside of the military and, being
in camp for most of the week, are unable
to solve them. Admittedly, this period can
be tough for recruits who have to adapt to
their new environment and they often face
many difficulties in coping. Fortunately,
there are many avenues through which
newly-enlisted recruits can seek advice,
help and support.
For instance, soldiers can turn to their
Orientation Officers (OOs). Mr Joseph
Rozario, an OO (below), said: “OOs help
look after the morale, welfare and well-
being of the soldiers. As part of a ‘Resilience
Package’, we teach the recruits ways to cope
with adjusting to the military and methods
to handle stress. We also identify, assist and
counsel recruits with adjustment or personal
problems. Recruits who feel they need
professional help or counseling, or even
just a hearing ear, can approach their OOs
directly. OOs are trained paracounsellors,
and have converted to defence executive
officers after a long service as uniformed
personnel. Having served as uniformed
personnel for a long period, we thoroughly
understand the difficulties of military life
and can empathize with the recruits.”
Story by Oon Ming Shen / Photography by Matthew Lim
REC Mohd Ariff
(Inset) has benefitted
from the help given
by his OO. REC Ariff
said, “I had difficulties
getting along with his
section mates and this
gave me a lot of stress.
I requested to see my OO, Mr Rozario,
who patiently listened to my problems,
counseled me and gave me advice. I think
the OOs do a very important job as they help
recruits like me with their problems. They
are very approachable and I can openly
share my problems with my OO. Mr Rozario
was very patient in helping me and he even
rushed down to talk to me one particular
night when I was simply unable to handle
the stress.” Similarly, REC Yap Jun Guan, from
3rd Battalion, Singapore Guards, attested to
the help given by his OO. He commented, “I
initially faced adjustment problems but my
OO encouraged me and taught me how to
maintain a positive mindset. After his help
and counsel, I am able to cope much better.
It’s good that the OOs are there for us to
turn to, as they are very understanding and
a father figure to us.”
CPT Alvin Ho (right) assisting his soldier
Furthermore, the soldiers’ commanders
play a crucial role in looking after their
soldiers’ wellbeing and helping them with
their problems. CPT Alvin Ho, the Officer
Commanding of Support Company, 3GDS,
shared, “We commanders recognize that
in the transition from civilian life to the
military, recruits may face problems.
The commanders on the ground are
trained to be always on the look-out for
early distress signals and to prioritize
their holistic wellbeing. The recruits’
platoon commanders will conduct
regular interviews with them and interact
with them informally, in order to better
understand the recruits and the problems
they may face. Through such a multifaceted
approach, the commanders will sieve out
soldiers who need additional attention and
help them in assimilating to military life.
In our capacity, we will be pay particular
attention to such soldiers and give them
the necessary support and advice. The
commanders work hand-in-glove with
the OOs and leverage on their expertise
to deliver such help. Depending on the
situation, more severe cases will be referred
to the OOs who can better provide the
professional advice and counseling that
certain recruits might require.”
19
Feature

Operation EVEREST: 41 SAR’s

Engagement with Team Singapore
Story by Daniel Yong/ Photography by Roy Chong

O n 13 Februry 2014, Team Singapore came

to Kranji Camp II where 41st Battalion Singapore
Armoured Regiment (41 SAR) is housed. Our
national athletes not only brought a series of
sports, namely Boccia, Floorball, Judo, Silat and
Wheelchair Basketball, but also their interesting
and inspiring sporting experiences to share with
Our 41 SAR soldiers. This engagement with our
national athletes is part of 41 SAR’s initiative,
code-named Operation EVEREST.

Operation EVEREST is an initiative that is aimed

to motivate Our soldiers to push their boundaries
and overcome their own Everests. Operation
EVEREST runs a series of events and activities to
train and inspire soldiers in 41 SAR, to run a full
marathon (about 42 km) at the end of this year.

2LT Goh Choon Meng from 41 SAR who

participated in Judo and Wheelchair basketball,
shared, “Participating in sports gives me a sense
of achievement when I successfully overcome the
obstacles. Today, I am inspired by our athletes as
they show a lot of passion towards their sport and
they make me believe that I can overcome tough
challenges if I have a strong passion for what I am
doing.”

Our national Basketball player, Low Wen

Qiang Russel, also commented on his sharing,
“It has been a good experience for me to be
interacting with the soldiers as an athlete today.
Low Wen Qiang Russel (right), playing wheel chair basketball with the soldiers
Playing Wheelchair Basketball is not only a new
experience for the soldiers but also new to me
too. Yet, it was really enjoyable to be playing and
sharing my sporting experiences with the soldiers
of 41 SAR.”

2LT Goh Choon Meng (left), sparring in a Judo match with one of the athletes

20 MARCH 2014 21
History
The Hijacking of SQ 117
Story by Edmund Heng
Photographs from The National Archives
On 26 March 1991 four terrorists
hijacked a Singapore Airlines aircraft,
SQ 117, with 129 passengers and crew
members on board. The plane took off from
Subang Airport in Kuala Lunpur, Malaysia
en route to Singapore. The hijackers then
gave a five minute deadline, threatening
to kill one passenger every ten minutes
should their demands not be met. Sounds
like a plot of an action movie? Yet this was
the real scenario that occurred that fateful
day in 1991, more than 23 years ago. It was
an act of terrorism that took place right
here in our own homeland.
22 MARCH 2014
When the flight took off from Kuala
Lumpur that night, it was only a matter
of minutes before four male passengers
armed with knives and explosives took
control of the plane. A flight to Singapore
from Kuala Lumpur would normally
take about an hour, and as the plane
landed in Changi International Airport,
it was immediately surrounded by the
Singapore Police Force (SPF). While that
was happening, a group of Officials from
MINDEF and The Ministry of Home Affairs
were assisting hostage negotiators for the
safe release of all 129 hostages. Two crew
members were physically thrown off the
plane as it was being towed.
Timeline
26 March 1991
2115 hrs:
Why does this SQ 117 departs from Kuala Lumpur for
Singapore. Was hijacked in minutes by
incident hold such four men, allegedly armed with knives
and explosives.
significance in our
2215 hrs:
history? It showed that SQ 117 touched down in Singapore
and was surrounded by members of the
in spite of how SPF while hostage negotiations begun.
security conscious we
might nave been, such 27 March 1991
an incident still took 0240 hrs:
SQ 117 was towed away from Runway
place. A decade after One of Changi International Airport,
two of the crew members were thrown
The hijackers, claiming to be members this hijack, another out of the plane.
of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), issued
their demands. They demanded a refuel so four planes were 0325 hrs:
that they could get the plane to Australia,
they demanded to talk to the Pakistani hijacked in the United A government statement was
released, stating the hijacker’s
Ambassador to Singapore and they wanted
the release of nine prisoners detained in States of America demands: to release nine prisoners
detained in Pakistan, including Asif Ali
Pakistan including Asif Ali Zadori, husband
of the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, leading to one of the Zadori, the husband of Benazir Bhutto,
the former Prime Minister of Pakistan;
Benazir Bhutto.
most devastating acts to talk to the Pakistani Ambassador to
Singapore and to refuel the plane to fly
At 6.45am the next day, the hijackers got
impatient and issued a five minute deadline, of terrorism. It reminds to Australia.
stating they will kill one passenger every
10 minutes should their demands not be us that while we might 0645 hrs:
met. Within two minutes, the SAF Counter
Terrorist Team from the Commandos was be enjoying this period The hijackers gave a five minute
deadline, threatening to kill one
given the order to storm the aircraft and
rescue the hostages. In a matter of seconds, of peace, we must passenger every 10 minutes if their
demands are not met.
all four hijackers were shot dead and the
remaining passengers and crew were never take anything for
rescued unharmed. 0647 hrs:
granted. The SAF Commandos were given the
order to storm the plane.
0654 hrs:
The plane was fully secured after the
terrorists were neutralised in a matter
of seconds and passengers begun
evacuating the plane.
23
Fitness

In Your
Words

090214
Appreciating our
servicemen - Lone
Survivor exclusive
screening
Nigel Dilip Singh Gill - Great movie!
And this is a great initiative! Thank
you for the tickets!red & white...
forever up in the sky. Majulah
Singapura!
ttlefield. #OurSgArmy
Artillery - King of the Ba -------------------------------------------------

(Posted on 220214) 110214

Our Sons; Our Heroes

THE Y
#OurSgArmy

P O RE A RM
SINGA
David Neo - GUARDSMAN!!!! Be

FACEBOOK
Eye on the Target, Ready to Engage. proud of the beret that you are
wearing!! not many can earn that
right to wear it!!.

porearmy -------------------------------------------------
fb.me/oursinga
160214
SAF Total Defence
Commemoration
Ceremony Album
What’s Hot! g! Shane Chiang - Nice, one. We want

What’s Trendin !
to see more of this, protectors
of the protected, serving a great

WHaT’s Viral
nation together. Lest we forget.

-------------------------------------------------

200114
9 AMB and Boon Lay Sec
School SSPP
Quek Yew Sing - Impressive... Can
see all the smiles from soldiers and
students alike. This is our lifestyle
and our Home, which we will all
defend!

ness
Conquering the Wilder
-------------------------------------------------

07/14 AOCC’s SOCJOT.

260214
Transfer of Command of
SWI to SAFTI MI
Armour Officer Cadet
The 07/14 Cohort of the
tly completed their Jonathan Wan - Our Army never
Course (AOCC) recen
det Jungle Orientation
ceases to amaze me. Progressive
Support Arms Officer Ca and forward looking. I truly hope
lau Tekong. The cadets we have the fire in the guts to make
Training (SOCJOT ) at Pu
ame 5 days of Jungle
it happen on the ground.
went endured and overc
d Crossing of Water
Survival, navigation an SAF Combat Rations - All
your favorite
ll done and press on
Obstacles (CWO). We Singaporean flavours (excep
t fish and
soldiers! chips) #OurSgArmy

(Posted on 180214) (Posted on 200214)

@oursingaporearmy

24 MARCH 2014