Recon Tab | All Bases Covered

ISSUE 232 FEBRUARY 2015

HIGHLIGHTS SPECIAL FORCES QUALIFICATION | RECON TAB | ALL BASES COVERED

#OurSgArmy ISSUE 232

08 AROUND OUR ARMY 3 New Opportunities To Study 10 Our SAF: Giving Strength to Our Nation 4 3 Guards Milestone Parade A Time To Refresh - 290 SA ICT 20 5 Bringing Joy to Others Walking the Talk - Commander 3rd Div Visits FEBRUARY223 SA ICT 6 On the Watch 24/7: Appreciating those who keep us safe Good Luck, Boys: 42 SAR 11th Mono Intake

FEATURES 7 The Spirit of Giving - Signals Visit RCHD 8 Special Forces Qualification 10 The Leaf 12 11 Honouring Our Security Troopers: 12 How Peanut Was Found MPST Day 2015 16 Purifying Our Needs 18 Radicalism 20 Recon 21 Commitment to a Supportive Role: DBS 07 22 Symbols Of Our Army: Intelligence

24 Stories beneath the high ceilings- Gillman Barracks 26 Conquering Countless Fronts: 3WO Teo Kar Lin 27 All Bases Covered 18 Around Our Army

Editorial Board the New Opportunities To Study COL Alfred Fox Editor Speaks Story by Saravanan Munusamy / Photography by Lee Xiang Rong and Matthew Lim COL Chua Boon Keat COL Paul Cheak Tri-Sector Collaboration. LTC Kee Kian Boon ow! Second month of 2015, and already we running at CWO Ng Siak Ping full speed. As you can see, February may be the shortest The signatories at the MOU signing SLTC (NS) James Suresh month of the year, but this issue is packed with loads of at SMU were Brigadier-General (BG) MAJ (NS) Sebastian Sim w Benedict Lim, Commandant SAFTI Military stuff for you. Read on and enjoy! Institute, SAF, and Professor Philip Zerrillo, Editorial Advisor Melvin S Ferdinands Dean of SMU’s Postgraduate Professional Editor of Army News BG Lim Hock Yu Programmes.

News Crew On the SAF-SMU partnership, BG Lim PASSING ON THE BATON said, “This partnership established with SMU Editor Head New Media January will complement the various development Dyson Ang Mel Ferdinands Appointment Incoming Outgoing opportunities available within the SAF. I am happy and appreciative towards SMU Photographers WO INSTR/SSM, SMI-INST ME3 Shirley Tan - Deputy Editor for recognising the academic rigour of SAF Melvin Loo Matthew Lim Low Kai Heng SSM, SOTC 1WO Tay Gek Hong 1WO Sia Chye Chye courses and the quality of our people.” Assistant Amos Poh RSM, 920 SIR (CAH) 2WO Chan Chee Yuan - Editors Jason Chua Professor Zerrillo said, “We are delighted Aloysius Lum to have this opportunity to deepen our DIV SM, 9 DIV/INF SWO Wong Weng Kee Jeffrey SWO Choong Keng On Lee Xiang Rong Graphic relationship with the SAF, particularly in the Designers training of the best SAF talents. Leadership BDE SM, 2 SIB MWO Lim Chin Yeong MWO Ng Puay Hng Writers Koh Jian Le On 25 November 2014, the Singapore Management University (SMU) and the Singapore makes all the difference, in defence and Leong Khee Shuen Roy Chong Armed Forces (SAF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The MOU established a beyond. SMU is proud to be contributing RSM, 48 SAR 2WO Tan Kim Chuan 2WO Yeo Kwee Lam Saravanan s/o Munusamy Lim Wei Jian three-year partnership through which SMU will support the SAF’s Continuing Education (CE) to the SAF’s Continuous Education Master’s Jeremy Hong Brandon Leow Master’s programme by accepting qualified SAF personnel for the University’s postgraduate programme. We believe that our university Lim Han Cong RSM (CAH), 489 SAR 2WO Chua Keng Lin - Ashwin Lee degree programmes. can make a difference in nurturing leaders Keita Sin Facebook RSM/OPS WO (CAH), 1 ISTAR BN 2WO Chew Eng Seng - with an innovative and global mind-set, Representative Four SMU Master’s programmes have been added to the SAF CE Master’s current who are equipped with the knowledge Alastair Loe RSM (CAH), 409 SAR 2WO Chua Seng Giap - offering. They are: Master of Science in Communication Management, Master of Science and skills to excel in today’s complex and in Innovation, Master of Information Technology in Business - Analytics and Master of dynamic environment.” Cover Photo RSM (CAH), 475 SAR 2WO Teo Chun Meng - Courtesy Of Special Forces Leadership BDE SM (CAH), 54 SAB MWO Lee Chew Leng - School MWO Ng Hock Heng Our SAF: FMN SM, SUPPLY COMD HQ MWO Francis Goh Siang Meng @ Lim Hock Heng

RSM, 35 SCE 1WO Won Choon Hun 1WO Wan Chuan Seah Giving Strength to our Nation Story by Alastair Loe / Photography by Low Kai Heng SSM / HD G & AS, SOI, MTI MWO Ng Puay Hng MWO Manokaran s/o Arumugam 2015 is a special year. Not only does it highlight Singapore’s 50 years of RSM (CAH), 716 SIR 2WO Surendra Gupta - independence, it also marks 50 years since RSM/ 1 SIR 2WO Lee Hup Wai 1WO Ng Choon Beng the formation of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). CO, SAF WARRANT OFFICER LTC Mohammed Jasni Bin ARMY NEWS is a monthly publication of the LTC Johan Bin Mohamed Haron Singapore Army. The opinions and views in SCHOOL Jamaludin this newsletter are those expressed by the Themed “Our SAF: Giving Strength to writers and do not reflect the official views of CO, ICTC 1 ITI LTC Foo Chek Boon LTC De Zilva Linnaeus Clinton Our Nation”, the SAF looks towards a series the Ministry of Defence. All rights reserved. Subjected to the provisions of the Copyright of activities to celebrate the milestone, Act, 1986, no part of this publication may CO, ICTC 2 ITI LTC Gooi Chee Wee LTC Soh Phooi Weng pay tribute to the people who contributed in any form or by any means (electronic, to the defence of Singapore and also mechanical, microcopying, photocopying, CO, 12 C4I BN MAJ Shane Lim Jit-Jin LTC Goh Zi Yang, Eric recording or otherwise) be reproduced or inspire future generations to build an even transmitted without prior written permission stronger SAF. from the people around them encouraged Other activities include a roving SAF50 from the publisher. CO, 10 CDO BN LTC Ong Choon Wei, Roy (CAH) LTC Ang Kwang Chien (CAH) them to strive harder. “I always wanted to exhibition that will move from one public Visit us online! CO, 920 SIR LTC Liau Eng Guan (CAH) - One of the activities is the SAF50@Vivo, be in the army and my parents have been location to another between February Read Army News on the internet at a four-day event at VivoCity mall which will very supportive of me. When you know that to August, a “Thank You” card movement http://www.army.sg CO, 745 GUARDS MAJ Wong Poh Wah LTC (NS) Lim Chee Kian display the combined assets and capabilities your parents are very proud of you, you to show our appreciation for the SAF from the Singapore Army, the Republic of can’t help but do better,” LTC (NS) Mohamad servicemen and servicewomen, SAF50 Have something you wish LTC (NS) Muthtamilan s/o CO, 38 CSSB MAJ (NS) Cheo Boon Thiam Singapore Navy and the Republic of Air Kahar Bin Abu Hassan (second from left), Parades for SAF Day and National day as to share with us? Vellasamy If you have any articles to contribute or Force. The exhibition aims to showcase former Commanding Officer of 906 SIR, well as SAF50@Istana Open House on 26 suggestions about our newsletter, contact us at : BDE RSM, ANG 1 1WO (NS) Ang Wei Chye MWO Goh Keng Pou heartwarming stories of individuals that relates to the strength and support he July 2015. [email protected] reflect how the support they had received drew from his family members in his career. ARMY NEWS BDE SM, 56 SAB 2WO (NS) Larry Pee Kah MWO Tan Poh Kok Joseph (Suggestions and Feedback) 3WO (NS) Desi Mohamad Amin s/o RSM, 8 CSH 2WO Lim Teck Hwai 5 Depot Road, #08-10 A Rahman Tower B, Defence Technology Towers, Singapore 109681 facebook.com/oursingaporearmy @oursgarmy youtube.com/OurSingaporeArmy Tel : 6277 0382/ 6277 0383 Fax : 6277 0381 @oursingaporearmy thesingaporearmy.tumblr.com 3 Around Our Army 3 Guards Milestone Parade Bringing Joy to Others Story by Keita Sin / Photography by Lim Wei Jian Story by Brandon Leow / Photography by Lee Xiang Rong

“Today marks another milestone in your NS journey where you had no idea what Guards was about when I just completed my will join the ranks of many thousands before you to stand ready Specialist Cadet School and one of my toughest memories during The soldiers from the 17th Command, Control, Communications, and other fun-filled activities. The delight, and appreciation of the to defend this nation,” said Commanding Officer, Third Battalion NS life is definitely going through the Guards Conversion Course. Computers, and Intelligence Battalion (17 C4I), conducted their individuals was heart-warming. Singapore Guards, LTC Joseph Lin on 28 November. The 16 Mono The training, especially the fast march and the coastal swim, were annual Community Out-reach Program where they visited the Intake Third Battalion Singapore Guards 1st Year Commanders’ mentally and physically draining. I would not have been able to homes of the elderly from the Thye Hua Kwan Moral Charities LTA Alston Yeong was the head of the NSF council that organised Milestone Parade was held at Victory Square, Bedok Camp 2. The persevere through such a painful experience without my friends’ Activity Centre on 4 December. The event was fully organised the visit and he shared his thoughts “The reason we chose to come Parade Commander was 2SG Mustafa from Bravo Company while support.” Being a commander, he also said “Sometimes, I see and planned by the Full-Time National Servicemen (NSFs) here rather than a normal old folk’s home is because in a normal Parade Sergeant Major was 2SG Tsing Wei from Alpha Company. myself in the men I train, and I feel that this is one of my greatest of the Battalion. old folk’s home, they have people to take care of them. Here they Also present was Commander 7 SIB, COL Tan Cheng Kwee. achievements – to be able to influence them in a positive way.” usually have no one to take care of them and we wanted to make a The soldiers interacted with the elderly at their homes and greater impact. I feel that doing community outreach programs is 3SG Luke Shakti Weissmann, Platoon 3 GPMG Commander Congratulations to the 1st Year Commanders. Always Ready, thereafter, gathered at the Activity Centre where a games carnival a part of our obligations as we need to care about the people we from Alpha Company shared with us his experience in his unit. “I Ready To Strike! was held. The participants enjoyed performances by the soldiers protect.”

A Time to Refresh: Walking the Talk: 290 SA ICT Commander 3rd Div Visits 223 SA ICT Story by Jason Chua / Photography by Ashwin Lee and Low Kai Heng Story by Brandon Leow / Photography by Matthew Lim and Jason Chua The 223rd Battalion of the Singapore Artillery underwent a 2 week long High Key 2SG Guo Xian Zhong, a Gunnery Specialist, 290 SA in Charlie In-Camp Training (ICT) from 24 November to Battery said, “I think that ICT is very relevant to us as it allows us to 5 December. This was the fourth year of ICT keep our skills brushed up. National Service is an important part of for the men and the first time doing their our national security and thus it is important for our skills in unit to 3-day 2-night Battalion Exercise. stay relevant. The visit today by BG Ong Tze-Ch’in is good as it helps improve morale. In addition, it allows him to see the conditions on The men were joined by Commander 3rd the ground and constantly make improvements to our force.” Division, BG Ong Tze-Ch’in, during the first day of the Battalion Exercise. It was evident that BG Ong placed the welfare of the men as his top priority as he engaged them at the Command Post.

BG Ong also proceeded to visit the Battalion’s Alpha Battery to meet the personnel stationed at the FH2000 guns. The 290 Singapore Artillery (SA) underwent their 6th In-Camp men were cheerful, as BG Ong shook hands Training (ICT) at Amoy Quee Camp. The training took place from with all of them and shared his personal 10 to 21 November and consisted of their Field Artillery Training experiences. He evidently understood the Evaluation Programme. The unit underwent this training to prepare problems the men faced such as terrain and them for an exercise which will be held during their next ICT. weather. BG Ong left his men with heart- warming encouragement that their ICT was On 17 November, BG Ong Tze-Chin, Commander 3 DIV, visited coming to an end. the training area at Amoy Quee Camp and met with the NSmen as they performed an outfield training exercise.

4 FEBRUARY 2015 5 Around Our Army On the Watch 24/7: Appreciating Those Who keep us safe Story by Saravanan Munusamy / Photography by Lee Xiang Rong Crossing from 2014 to 2015, the soldiers from the 4th Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment (4 SIR) maintained a vigilant watch over various locations in Singapore. Chief of Defence Force, LG Ng Chee Meng, and Chief of Army, MG Perry Lim, visited our troopers from 4 SIR on 31 December at Jurong Island and Sembawang Wharves.

“Threats can come from any manner, sea-borne, from ships or speedboat. Someone has to watch over these places and here we are. Singaporeans out there can enjoy themselves safely because of us doing our duty. It’s all about the security of Singapore, and that’s what important.” said CPL Wan Afiq Syahmi, GPMG Asst.

Despite having to work over the festive period, the soldiers from 4SIR made no fuss about it. 1SG Shivam Gupta, Platoon Sergeant shared, “The camaraderie among the soldiers here is a key factor in our duties going about smoothly. I don’t have any issue motivating my men, as they are fine working together during their duties. -

On behalf of Army News, I thank the soldiers for their and sacrifice and want them to know that their efforts are recognised and appreciated. OF GIVING SPIRIT SIGNALS VISIT RCHD Good Luck, Boys: HE 42 SAR 11th Mono Intake StoryT by Saravanan Munusamy Photography by Leong Khee Shuen and Lim Wei Jian Story by Ashwin Lee / Photography by Leong Khee Shuen The 42nd Battalion, Singapore Armoured Regiment (42 SAR) held their 11th Mono- Intake Direct Enlistment Exercise at Sungei Gedong Camp on 11 December, for recruits who will be undergoing the Physical Training Phase (PTP). Around 119 enlistees were accompanied by their family members for a Our soldiers from the Signal Formation held their community outreach programme and shared the spirit of giving with the resi- tour of various facilities such as their bunks dents of the Red Cross Home for the Disabled (RCHD) on 23 December 2014. and medical centre.

Parents witnessed their sons take the Oath As the visit coincided with the Christmas season, it started off in the respective wards with a caroling session led by ‘Santa Claus’. of Allegiance and have their heads shaved Chief Signal Officer (CSO), COL Percival Goh, and his family also handed out presents to the residents during the carolling session. before bidding farewell to their boys. The new recruits will now undergo their BMT in Jaguar, 2WO Kelly Yeo, RSM 10C4I Bn, shared his thoughts; “Community service is a meaningful event. It teaches our soldiers compas - Kaffir, and Lion companies respectively. sion and understanding through the engagement with the residents here. Through this event, I hope our soldiers appreciate that not everyone is as fortunate.” 2WO Kelly Yeo also brought his daughters to indicate in them the value of community service. LTC Koh Ting You, CO 42 SAR, said: “We will focus on building strong soldiering fundamentals, smoothly assimilating our Our soldiers performed the “Three Little Pigs” skit and interacted with the residents through games with prizes. LTA Nelson new recruits into army life, and developing them from boys to men.” Ng Wah Rong from Headquarters Signals, “Being my first time here was a refreshing experience. It was great to see the their good basic soldiering habits. These residents happy when we interact with them.” The delight and smiles of residents were certainly a heart-warming sight. will help them get through their 2 years The Singapore Army welcomes all 42 SAR recruits and wishes them a fulfilling journey of active service with ease and develop ahead! Well done Soldiers, your kind gestures will go a long way in bringing joy to the residents at the RCHD!

6 FEBRUARY 2015 “Generally in battle, use the normal forces to engage; use the extraordinary to win.” Sun Tzu, The Art of War

Special Forces need no introduction. Considered the sharpest edge of any military in the world, a mere mention of Special Forces would set your mind on an imaginative tour. So what does it take to become one in the SAF?

Special Forces recruitment stretches throughout the entire SAF. Annually, servicemen from the Army, Airforce and Navy apply for the Joint Special Forces Selection Test (JSFST) to gain acceptance into the Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC).

The weeks of JSFST is an arduous one, which entails a series of demanding physical and combat test requirements which candidates have to undergo in order to determine their suitability to embark on the SFQC. Candidates would also have to undergo a series of interviews and situational tests conducted by the Psychologists from the Defense Psychology Department (DPD) to assess the candidates’ leadership, initiative, self-discipline, independence of mind, ability to work without supervision and physical ability.

Criteria such as compatibility, integrity and stability were given great weightage throughout the assessment process. In fact, the psychologists and Master Trainers from the operational SF units designed many of these assessment tests based on experience. In other words, a candidate can be the fittest in the world but if the psychological testing indicates inadequacies in the findings, such as the inability to work with the other candidates of diverse backgrounds – they will not be accepted into the SF community. This is why only one-third of the candidates eventually pass the JSFST and move on to the SFQC.

Getting selected is the easy part. The SFQC is 35 weeks long and includes both local and overseas training. Conducted annually by the Special Forces Leadership School (SFLS) in the Commando Training Institute, the SFQC calls upon a group of experienced instructors from all the SF executive units to deliver their expertise in training first-class SF leaders and troopers. forces SPECialualification q Article and images contributed by Special Forces Training Wing “SFQC is the gateway towards a lifetime of excellence. While the trainees were taught all the necessary skills required to perform their roles as a Special Forces trooper, they also embark on a journey of self-discovery. Know- ing their limitations and overcoming them becomes a life skill that enables them to meet any future challenges”, said MAJ Benson, the Officer Commanding of Special Forces Training Wing.

The SFQC is the only criteria for SF troopers to join the Special Operations Task Force (SOTF). To meet its objec- tives, the SFQC has infused some of the most up to date Special Forces capabilities, producing graduates capable of conducting Special Operations in all terrain environments with technologically advanced equipment. Special Forces have to operate in harsh and unpredictable conditions, on land, in the air or in the sea. To transform or- dinary soldiers into elite Special Forces troopers, the SFQC’s training syllabus encompasses a wide range of spe- cialities, including water insertions, heli-roping, medical, demolition and small unit tactics. To hone their sharp- ness on the battlefield, SFQC encourages active thinking through adaptive training. For example, SFQC trainees were often forced to think on their feet to find creative solutions to complete their missions as their instructors continuously challenge them with contingencies. All basic Special Forces skills are woven into the SFQC to enable trainees to employ the acquired skills later during realistic battlefield conditions and the Special Operations mission exercises.

“Special Forces today have evolved over time. The need to adapt and be effective in a wide spectrum of operations mean that Special Forces training cannot just train towards responding to the adversary; SF must constantly derive fresh capabilities and countermeasures to achieve mission success in operations.” Said LTC Samuel, Commanding Officer of SFLS. HONOURING OUR THE LEAF SECURITY Troopers: Story by Keita Sin Photography By Low Kai Heng and Keita Sin MPST DAY 2015

Commonly recognised by soldiers under the rude moniker that contains 2 of the first 3 letters of the alphabet, it probably is one of the first plants that fresh recruits are exposed to during Simpoh Air can be found in Secondary Forests in Singapore Commander 2PDF , BG Terry Siow presenting the Basic Military Training. How many of MP&ST Recognition Day coin you though, actually know about this plant? Story by Saravanan Munusamy Found primarily in Secondary Forests Photography by Lee Xiang Rong in Southeast Asia, the Simpoh Air (Dillenia Suffroticosa) grows at forest ain or shine, our Military Police and edges, marshes, swampy regions and RSecurity Troopers are always there streams, up to an altitude of 500m. to safeguard our SAF premises and Key It can grow to a size of 7m and has Installations (KINs). On 9th January gigantic leaves that can measure be- 2015, the SAF commemorated the second yond 30cm in length, with a distinctive annual Military Police and Security Trooper crevice at the base that is responsible Recognition Day (MP&ST Recognition Day) for its unofficial name. The leaves were Fruit of Simpoh Air used in the past to wrap food due to to commend the sacrifices that they make to their size and sturdiness, and are still ensure the security of our camps and bases. used today to wrap traditional food like the Tempeh. The roots tap deep This year, we celebrated Military Police and into the ground for water and hence is Security Trooper day through personal visits a good indication of an underground to all camps and bases’ guardrooms by their water source. respective KIN Commanders. During these visits, they engaged the Military Police and Tailorbirds and Weaver Ants utilise Security Troopers, commending them on the leaves for nest building too. Also, their operational readiness and persistent the plants’ large yellow flowers bloom (apparently) at 3am and only last for a vigilance, and also presenting them with a day. They then develop into pink fruits commemorative MP&ST Recognition Day which split open at, again, 3am when Coin. The coin serves as a tangible form and ripe (apparently). Wildlife such as the Flower of Simpoh Air lasting of recognition for the risks that the Carpenter Bee and Yellow-Vented security personnel take, as well as a reminder Bulbul help to pollinate. of their commitment to the safety of our camps and bases. National Service leaves us with a med- ley of wonderful memories, and to the PTE Marcus Yew Wei Xuan, a Security Trooper at Amoy Quee Camp, appreciates the initiative taken by the SAF to majority, the various interactions with commemorate MPST. Speaking about the meaning of the event to him, PTE Marcus said, “I am very glad that such a day Singapore’s natural habitat surely have a place in one’s recollections too – is allocated as it gives an opportunity for others to know what we do and appreciate our work. Although I meet the senior roaming wild boars, torrential rainfall, commanders from my camp as they enter and leave the camp on a daily basis, it was great to meet them up close and it the roots that just had to grow under was an honourable moment when they appreciated our efforts and thanked us for it.” CO 8 Singapore Infantry Regiment, your Basha, and definitely, this leaf. MAJ Herbert Ong shared that the organisation of this year’s event had gained further awareness and traction through the publicity and co-ordination efforts put in to gain greater awareness amongst those residing in the different camps. Together with his team of organisers, he would like to thank all the KIN Comds, Unit Security Officers and Guardroom OICs Yellow-Vented Bulbul feeding on seed of Simpoh Air for making this event a resounding success.

Thank you, MPs and STs, for your efforts in ensuring the security and control of our camps/bases. You have our recognition and immense appreciation your commitment and vigilance. STORY & PHOTOGRAPHY BY Jeremy Hong MISSING IT’S MORE THAN MONEY HOW PEANUT WAS FOUND

Two long agonising days had passed ON THE TABLE since Ada Cheah and her family discovered their mini schnauzer, Peanut, had gone missing. They had almost given up hope, but thanks to one of our Army’s soldiers, Peanut was brought home safely and reunited with his family.

Ada had placed Peanut in the temporary care of her brother, who lives in Jalan Kayu. In a strange new place, Peanut was disorientated, and took advantage of an unattended gate, rushing out into the wild.

The entire family immediately went in search of Peanut. They combed the surrounding area for two days, multiple times. They even pasted posters all around Jalan Kayu, but all their efforts seemed in vain.

Desperate, Ada decided to look into the surrounding area of Jalan Kayu, an area that included the road leading to Seletar Camp. However, Ada was sceptical it would work, because, in her words, “Who would go through there except the soldiers?” Little did she know that this would be the key to end her quandary.

A soldier had spotted Peanut on his way back home. Not having any form of identification on it, he decided to take the mini schnauzer into his care. It was two days later that he received word from two of his fellow soldiers. They had spotted Ada’s posters outside Seletar Camp, and forwarded him a picture of it. D Immediately, he sent a text message to Ada, and drove to Seletar Camp to reunite Peanut with its family. Lezanne, Ada’s daughter, had only one word to describe what she felt when Peanut was found – D “Happy”.

The soldier in the article has requested to remain anonymous. D

This article originated through an email from Ms Ada Cheah. If you D know of any soldier (NSF, Regular or NSman) that you think should be featured, please drop us an email at [email protected]. Army D News welcomes feedback or suggestions for articles! D D 12 FEBRUARY 2015 D

believe most readers should now be familiar with the Water Purification Unit (WPU) after news of the SAF’s contribution of four units to support MAF - led flood relief efforts in Kelantan, during last year’s floods. Our soldiers were deployed to help operate these units. I Prior to this news, how many of us knew the importance of such units, and how and why they are operated? The mobile water purification unit was initially developed in WWI due to absence of potable water for villages affected by the floods However, the unit was found to be only partially effective during WWII which led to multiple units being developed for various types of water sources. In spite of improvements, the use of multiple units led to logistics and training problems. The process of Reverse Osmosis plays an integral part in our army’s WPUs.

The WPU is capable of producing potable water, from sources such as sea water or brackish water that is polluted, salinated, or contained with chemical, biological and/or radiological con- taminants. The WPU uses the Reverse Osmosis (RO) technology to purify the feed water and the set-up is safe and simple. The unit is primarily used for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Re- lief (HADR) deployments when we are operating in areas with little or no access to clean water.

I was given an opportunity to witness the setting up and the running of the WPU and I must say it is definitely not an easy task despite the presence of clear labels and the efficiency of Story by Saravanan Munusamy / Photography by Ashwin Lee the set-up crew. It is a complicated jumble of pipes, cylinders, hoses and cables which takes 20 minutes for an experienced crew of four to set up. However there are certain aspects of the WPU which signifies the careful thought process by the research team put into its construction. For example, the water pump connected to one end of the uptake hose assembly resembles a maritime lane- marker because of its inflatable flotation ring. It is designed in such a way that it sits on the water surface and draws the cleanest water possible, away from sediments which might lie in the depths of the water sources. The hoses are colour-coded: Red hoses are for raw water while the blue hose is used to deliver clean water. Accessories such as the flotation ring are stored in a metal box bolted onto the platform. When fully packed, the WPU fits neatly onto an SAF five-ton crane truck which is used to transport and to deploy the unit.

The WPU employs a robust four-stage cleaning process to produce clear, safe and odourless water. The intake system consists of screens and pumps required to extract feed water and deliver it to the pre-treatment system. The pre-treatment system removes suspended solids and other impurities in the seawater by coagulation and filtration and prepares the seawater to a condition suitable for RO treatment. Following pre-treatment, seawater The submergible pump being lowered into is pressurised to about 50 bar and fed to the RO system. The RO unit consists of 4 pressure vessels in parallel, the water source to pump water to the WPU for with each pressure vessel containing six to seven spirally-wound membrane elements. In the RO process, water molecules preferentially permeate through the RO membranes, while solutes- that is, dissolved salts and processing. inorganic molecules- are rejected and removed from the process in a concentrate system. The permeate from the RO process is post-treated to make the water suitable for disruption and consumption. Post treatment typically consists of disinfection, pH adjustment and the addition of minerals to produce non-corrosive water.

Although this equipment or the operating crew may not be known to many, they form an integral part of the supply and support system of our Army and have a an important role in our operations during times of need, such as HADR deployments when we are operating in areas with little or no access to clean water. Through this article I hope our readers will have have a better understanding of the WPU and recognise and appreciate the unit and its crews.

Purifying our needs

All safety procedures are checked before the unit starts operating Radicalism

Story by Leong Khee Shuen

ver a decade after the September 11 attacks, the In Singapore, there have been five self-radicalised personnel O war on terror has not ended. The debate continues who have been detained by the Internal Security Act (ISA) on the root causes of terrorism. Some analysts think that thus far. Foreign Affairs Minister K Shanmugam addressed poverty and ignorance are the underlying causes. On the this concern in Parliament in August 2014, “It is a serious is- other hand, other analysts strongly reject this correlation. sue. We can try to be safe and secure within Singapore but Their logic is simple: most terrorists are neither poor nor un- how can we prevent self-radicalisation?” educated. Radicalism is often a precursor to terrorism, thus, focusing The underlying causes of terrorism are extremely complex; on how to prevent or stop radicalism could amount to pre- and a combination of social, cultural, economic, political and venting terrorism at an earlier stage. However, detection of psychological factors are often at play. Moreover, different radicalised individuals is a challenging feat. It is only when terrorist networks have different motives and political ob- someone translates his or her ideas into action, can they jectives. Hence, any attempt to create a generic profile for then be detected. However by that time, the ideology may terrorists is often misleading and inaccurate. have already been etched into their belief system and per- vaded their life style. Despite such diversity, all terrorist groups share a common trait: the willingness to kill or harm civilians for their cause. In light of this increasing threat, Singapore has proposed to Therefore, terrorism is ultimately a major security concern conduct an East Asia Summit symposium on the de-radical- for nations and there is a need for counter-terrorism. Such isation of extremists. Organised by the S. Rajaratnam School coercive actions includes: Intelligence gathering, law en- of International Studies, Religious Rehabilitation Group, and forcement, interagency coordination and if necessary, the the Home Affairs and the Foreign Affairs Ministries, the sym- use of force. Terrorist networks would not be deterred by posium is to be held in April 2015. The symposium will pro- anything less than the strongest security measures. vide a platform to share best practices among experts. With Singapore’s experience in rehabilitating extremists into soci- The debate about the root causes of terrorism however, is ety, around 300 experts, policy makers and representatives not about counter terrorism. Advocates of the root cause from religious and educational groups around the world will approach are interested in fighting the conditions that cre- participate in the discussion. ate terrorism, not the terrorists themselves. Terrorists by definition are radicals. Yet, only a few radicals venture into The situation in Iraq and Syria is complex and there are no terrorism. With the increasing threat of self-radicalisation, simple solutions. However, as Lao Tzu said, “A journey of a targeting the root cause of terrorism is thus necessary. thousand miles begins with a single step”. The first step towards change is awareness.

19 Under the existing NS HOME (Housing, Medical and Education) Award, NS men who complete their training cycle receive monetary rewards and grants by the government through three major milestones. In 2014 DBS Bank announced an initiative that will recognise the efforts of employees who successfully complete their 10-year National Service (NS) Unit Training Cycle –SGD 3,000 in cash to employees when they complete their training. This will benefit operationally active NS men, who represent about 60% of the bank’s male Singaporean and Permanent Resident workforce.

“At DBS, we believe that people are at the heart of banking and seek to create a great workplace for our people. To achieve this, we are focused on providing learning and development opportunities, rewards and recognition, and work-life balance. We commend the efforts of National Service men; they have made personal sacrifices and taken time away from their families to serve the nation. We want to do our part to Story by Leong Khee Shuen / Photography by Lim Wei Jian recognise their contributions and we hope this award can be used for their family and lifestyle activities. Through a holistic people engagement programme, we hope to be increasingly known as an employer of he inaugural “Recon” Tab presentation parade was OCS or SCS more than three months before the start of the choice in the region,” said Theresa Phua, Singapore Head of Human Resources at DBS Bank. Theld on 8 December to servicemen who successfully course, he or she is to complete a route march in FBO as well graduated from the RSTA Commander Course (RCC), In- as pass an SOC test. During the course, trainees go through 2SG (NS) Goh Tze Rui Platoon Sergeant feels glad that NSmen are recognised by DBS, “There is an expectation fantry Scout Platoon Course (ISPC), Armour Scout Platoon a rigorous curriculum to test their ability to operate under for Operationally Ready NS Men to maintain a level of fitness, but more importantly the ten cycles of In-Camp Course (ASPC) or Brigade RSTA Company Course (BRCC). physical and mental pressure, to ensure that they deserve to training takes us away from our families during training periods. This reaffirms the effort that we put in, and is qualify as an RSTA commander of trooper. a nice gesture to commend the efforts of our NS Men. It is a good example of how employers can do their part The term “Recon” is an abbreviation for “reconnaissance” to recognise our contribution to National Service.” and the Recon Tab, classified as a vocation tab (similar to “I think it’s a long time coming and this marks a significant the Guards Tab), represents a serviceman’s qualification milestone for all Recce troopers and commanders and I think CPL (NS) Koh Hong Wei Recee Trooper, HQ 15 SIB appreciates the initiative by DBS and has already made plans all the NSmen were looking forward to this as well.” said LTA in reconnaissance. All NSF, NSmen and Regular service- on how to spend the money, “I feel appreciated by DBS for rewarding me with this award, despite the fact that men who have graduated from one of the reconnaissance (NS) Kelvin Wang Yun Xiong, (BRET) Brigade RSTA Evaluation I am OOO (out of office) for about two weeks each year for my ICT (In camp Training) for the past seven years! courses are eligible to don the Recon Tab. Team, School of Combat Intelligence (SCI). I also feel happy because my wife has just given birth recently and the monetary rewards from the award will Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Target Acquisition The inclusion of a Recon Tab on the SAF Dress Code repre- contribute to my son’s diaper fund!” (RSTA) is a critical asset in ensuring mission success of the sents an important step towards recognising the specialised manoeuvre element. As the training that a reconnaissance soldier has undergone and elite platoon or company in more importantly, the high standards expected of those a manoeuver Battalion or who don the tab. The Recon Tab will Brigade, they are deployed serve as a symbol of excellence, in- stilling pride and purpose amongst ommitment to a close to enemy lines to conduct ground reconnais- all reconnaissance-trained sol- sance and surveillance. diers. supportive role: To qualify for the Re- “This is a whole new identity, I c DBS con Tab, servicemen am very glad to have received Story by Saravanan Munusamy must be able to meet the Recon Tab.” said MAJ Deb- Photographs contributed by Goh Tze Rui, Ray and Koh Hong Wei a mandatory physical orah Koh, the first female fitness pre-requisite soldier who received the in order to qualify for Recon Tab. the reconnaissance courses.Trainees are required to attempt a 6km fast march with 20 kg load in FBO, as well as run 5 km in less than 28 minutes in PT attire.

If the trainee has graduated from

This new initiative by DBS comes under the bank’s comprehensive benefits programme. On behalf of Army News and all NSmen, thank you DBS for your recognition of NS Men’s efforts and the Bank’s commitment to provide a supportive work environment for your staff when they are away to fulfil their NS obligations. Symbols of ourStory Army: by Brandon Leow (With Intelligencecontributions from MWO Richard Quek)

Orchid Corporate identity in words National flower of Singapore In addition to the Intelligence tag line Firm Base as the Army’s First Line Of Defence, Nerve Centre of intelligence ops the words Army Intelligence are where analysis is carried out included at the top half of the inner circle to enhance the Alternating Colours visibility and recognition of Important ability of Intelligence Army Intelligence personnel. to see both sides of a situation. Inward pointing arrows Red Feedbacks into the Nerve Centre The army Flower White Traditional symbol for Intelligence Stresses the importance of clarity in the intelligence Concentric Circles network The addition of two circles- Outer Grey Background Circle ring representing the entity of Army The grey-colour background of the logo Intelligence as an inclusive tribe to reflects the operating environment of reflect the Intelligence ethos “Once Int, Always army intelligence as we endeavour to reduce in.” The inner circle represents the non-hierarchical nature uncertainties through the fog of war. of intelligence staff work and the intelligence cycle.

he Singapore Army Intelligence was initially formed HQ to prepare Army Intelligence in dealing with challenges T as the Department of Military Intelligence (DMI) of the Army’s new operating environment. on 9 February 1966 and located at Pearls Hill. This was then followed by the formation of the School of Military In August 2007, CIG was restructured to form the Combat Intelligence (SMI) on 3 March 1969 at the SAF Training Intelligence Group/ SAF Military Intelligence-Institute (CIG/ Institute. SMI allowed officers and men to be trained SMI-I). The new organisation would take on the dual roles of in the field of military intelligence which helped facilitate serving as the Subject Matter Expert for Combat Intelligence the build-up of combat units during its early years. and the Intelligence Training Institute of the Military Intelligence Organisation. The decade spanning the end of 1970s to the end of the 1980s brought a large restructuring of SMI. In 1978, the In July 2013, HQ Army Intelligence was officially inaugurated Scout Wing and Advanced Intelligence Officer’s Wing were to be the SSSO to Raise, Train and Sustain 3G Army established. In 1988, Combat Exercise Wing was established Intelligence Capabilities. SMI-Inst will continue to be the to conduct intelligence training at three levels (Headquarters, training authority for the Military Intelligence Organisation Division and Brigade). This took place concurrently with the to conduct Intelligence training. The new Army Intelligence reorganisation of the Advanced Intelligence Officer’s Wing Formation will provide better focus and supervision to build and the Specialist Officer’s Wing to form the Advanced Army Intelligence to support the Army in a broad spectrum Intelligence Staff Wing. of operations.

The evolution of the Army Intelligence continued into the 2000s with the restructuring of Combat Intelligence Department in G2 Army into Combat Intelligence Group (CIG) on 27 Apr 2005 and to function as a Ground Specialist Stories beneath the high ceilings – Despite discontinuing its relationship with the military in the 1990s when the SAF vacated, Gillman Barracks continued with its presence in the annals of Singapore history. The place was renamed Gillman Village in 1996 and the buildings maintained a role by serving commercial purposes. Gillman Barracks The place reclaimed its original name – Gillman Barracks – in 2010 and the Singapore Government issued plans to establish an art-related hub there. The naturally high ceilings of the buildings make them suitable for art gal- Story by Keita Sin / Photography by Lim Wei Jian, Keita Sin and contributions from LTC (NS) John Lynn lery use. In September 2012 the Art Galleries in Gillman Barracks were officially launched. Today, international art galleries, restaurants and the Centre for Contemporary Art (CCA) are housed in the 6.4 hectare site. Signifi- cant art occasions such as the Singapore Biennale and Art Stage Singapore are organised there too.

Similar to Dempsey Hill which has a rich history that few used to know, Gillman Barracks is a location with Given the rapid pace of life today, it perhaps is often inevitable for tradition and history to be forgotten; it is cru- plenty a story to tell. In 1936, what used to be jungle and swamp was transformed into the Gillman Barracks. cial to look ahead. However, we must take a glance back once in a while. Have a little escapade to a seemingly The place was named after a prominent British Army General Sir Webb Gillman. He was commissioned into the familiar place and let their episodes impregnate you. If you’re craving for a good meal or are hungry for innova- Royal Artillery, British Army in July 1889 and rose to the rank of General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern tion, Gillman Barracks surely is the place to visit, where tradition and creativity collide to produce the dreamlike Command in March 1931. He spent over three months in Singapore in 1927 to assess the construction of a Na- atmosphere that is sure to captivate. val Base along the Changi coastal area.

Built to accommodate the 1st Battalion, Middlesex Regiment sent to bolster the British Army in Singapore, Gill- man Barracks contained barrack buildings, messes and various facilities. It later housed the 2nd Battalion, Loyal Regiment. Gillman Barracks witnessed the brutal battle between the Regiment and the Japanese 3 days prior to Singapore’s fall in February 1942.

In August 1971, Gillman Barracks was handed over to Singapore’s Government as part of the British military withdrawal. The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) then moved in, marking the beginning of a new era for Gillman Barracks. It was home for the School of Combat Engineers and the SAF 3rd Transport Battalion.

LTC (NS) John Lynn who was with 37th Battalion, Singapore Combat Engineers that was based in Gillman Barracks then shared his memories. The old bailey bridge

“The “Gillman Barracks” that we see today is less than half the size of what was there before. In the past, there were 3 hills that we trained on but they have all been flattened now. I can still recall the amazing experience when I rode up the hill to my camp entrance on my bike at 6am. The road was very misty and had an extremely surreal atmosphere. We often built bridges at the gaps in our camp for training. The components of the bridges were ridiculous- ly heavy and we had to piece about many components altogether. But training in such a camp was wonderful. Surrounded by the hills and greenery, jogging around the camp was a calming activity. Being side by side with nature, animals like pangolins, wild boars, cobras and cockatoos often ‘visited’ the camp too.

I miss the mess culture – it was full of life. After our training, we often headed to the mess to relax and spend time together. Old timers came back to visit, and it was a wonderful place to foster relations.”

“Who needs the gym when you are carrying all of this every An interesting photo where 3 different types of uniforms day?” can be seen.

Former Military Camps sure have an enchanting atmosphere. This month, we take a short trip to Gillman Barracks, a vintage yet picturesque site where history continues to be carved. Story by Alastair Loe 3WO Teo Kar Lin ALL BASES COVERED Total Defense In Singapore

3WO Tee (3rd from left) oday, there is a wide array of threats that canfor strikelocal companies Singapore. so They as to range ensure from that attacks they continue by foreign countries, operations even under dire circumstances. Through economic downturn, transnational terrorism, epidemics, social disharmony and even crime. So how do we prepare constant upgrading of technologies and retraining the ourselves to fight against these dangers? employees with new or relevant skills, we improve efficiency and therefore allow Singapore to work towards economic Conquering Countless Fronts: growth and economic stability. Deterrence [Military Awareness [Civil Defence] 3WO Teo Kar Lin Defence] A fire may break out anytime. We should understand Article and Photos contributed by: The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) uses up-to-date preventive steps and how to quickly react when they HQ Commando technologies and weapons to keep our defence force ready, occur. The threat of terrorism is everywhere. The Singapore decisive and respected. We are able to show the global Civil Defence Force (SCDF) specialises in providing relief, community that we are more than capable to protect evacuation procedures as well as damage control during ourselves, although we are a small nation. emergencies. Public Education is also implemented to raise public awareness on how to prepare for contingencies. Stability [Economic Defence]

Should a war or other international conflict involving 3WO Tee Kar Lin enlisted Service Support (CSS) formation. This year, as part of the plan to Singapore happen, an unstable economy will collapse. in Commandos as a Rigger Wanting to challenge herself, better expose her to the other Staying economically competitive is therefore our primary on 17 August 1998. Since then, she took up a role as a Supply aspects of the army, 3WO Tee aim. We do that by implementing contingency policies she has advanced to become a Supervisor and was appointed Kar Lin was reassigned as the Senior Packer for her Rigger as the Centre Pool IC. Despite Optical and Comms OIC. She has qualification grade. During this a change in her work environment, dedicated herself even more in Harmony [Social Defence] period, she was also attached to the she continued doing her her new position, putting her heart Army Shooting Team for 3 years, best, seeking her supervisor for and soul to maintain the entire Being a multi-racial and multi-religious country, Singapore can be vulnerable to racial and religious disputes. Insensitive as part of the Singapore female advice whenever she needed Commando Optical and Comms remarks and comments can trigger social tension. In the past, Singapore experienced racial riots and religious conflicts. In order to prevent such dissensions from occurring again, we have to understand, be tolerant and sensitive to different ethnicities, and shoot team. She has gone on to help while also providing Store, which is comparative to a live in harmony. achieve many milestones during valuable suggestions to brigade-sized store. She serves her shoots, managing numerous improve the management of her the unit tirelessly while bringing Resilience [Psychological Defence] times to get to the podium. work place. Due to her hard- contagious joy to the people work and dedication, she scored around her. 3WO Tee Kar Lin The most important aspect of Total Defence is the pride and unity that Singaporeans have when defending our country against any threats. Regardless of the challenges we face, we stand together and defend what is ours. In 2012, 3WO Tee Kar Lin remarkable results during the consistently makes the most of her Total Defence Day was introduced in 1984 to remind Singaporeans that every single one of us plays a part in protecting ourselves from impending problems. Today, Total was offered an opportunity for audit. work environment and maintains Defence Day serves not just as a reminder for us, but also a day to celebrate what we a re-vocation with the Combat a positive outlook of her work. have done thus far to defend our country. Let’s keep up our good work!

In Your Words

151214 42 SAR Milestone Parade Alex Ang - Once Armour, Always Armour! Thank you for your service! ------

030115 1 GDS Milestone Parade Sham Mulisha - Good to see men parade in number 1 to mark their milestone and Ord from full time service. No such thing during mine. When our vision gets blur, our fighting spirit gets stronger. Only if your unit get best combat then you get to wear one. You guys 60,000 Likes on Our Army FB deserve it. Cheers. ------Thank you for your (Posted support! on 081214) 030115 THE Lying in Wait #OurSgArmy SINGAPORE ARMY Gabriel Heng - Bad with blanks, great with live. ------FACEBOOKfb.me/oursingaporearmy 050115 Singapore Water Purification Team contributing to the ongoing Malaysian What’s Hot! Armed Forces (MAF) led What’s Trending! flood relief efforts. Viral! Jim Leow - I love this. This is how WHaT’s neighbours shld be with each other! ------080115 The 18th BMTV Graduation Parade Doreen Tan- My son also wrote me a letter which fill up so much love & joy in my heart, well done SAF! Day or night, we are ever-ready. 21/2014 Specialist Cadet Graduation Parade

SCT Maxcelin Tan, the only female cadet in her cohort, graduated in the 21/2014 Specialist Cadet Graduation Parade as a Specialist of Stay Sharp! the Combat Service Support Command (CSSCOM). #OurSgArmy Well done SCT Maxcelin! (Posted on 211214) (Posted on 221214)

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COMIC BY MONOCOQUE SERVICE DESIGN 28 FEBRUARY 2015