ISSUE 222 APRIL 2014

HIGHLIGHTS MPEU | READY • DECISIVE • RESPECTED | OUR FIGHT AGAINST SARS www.mindef.gov.sg/army #OurSgArmy COVER STORY CONTENTS 8 MILITARY POLICE ENFORCEMENT UNIT 10 MAN’S BEST FRIEND 12 READY 16 DECISIVE 18 RESPECTED 24 OUR FIGHT AGAINST SARS

AROUND OUR ARMY 3 CHEVRONS ON THEIR CHESTS / VETERANS’ VISIT TO SINGAPORE ARMY MUSEUM

FEATURES 4 CHIEF OF ARMY CHANGE OF COMMAND 7 MSER CHALLENGE 13/14 11 EYEWITNESS ACCOUNT: MACDONALD HOUSE BOMBING 20 SYMBOLS OF OUR ARMY 22 27TH SEA GAMES 26 ANSWERING THE CALL

------ISSUE 222 APRIL 2014 Our Army

Editorial Board the Chevrons on their chests: COL Alfred Fox COL Chua Boon Keat Editor Speaks Specialists Cadet Graduation Parade 18/2013 SLTC Paul Cheak Story by Jack Leong / Photography by Roy Chong LTC De Silva Joe Ronesh LTC Dennis Oh with them and be their guide, friend and he Year 2013 was a busy year for Our Army. Between the CWO Tang Peck Oon mentor." MAJ Phillip Wong usual range of training exercises and operations, Our LTC (NS) James Suresh Army continued to engage its people and the public Amongst the hundreds of graduates was CPT (NS) Sebastian Sim through its SAF Schools Partnership Program activities, 3SG Colin Chen who was also the Parade Total Defence events and even a month long exhibition. Commander and Golden Bayonet winner. Editorial Advisor We recap the events that defined the year for our Army When asked about his motivations, he said BG Lim Hock Yu in our feature story. “My family and girlfriend have been very T supportive of me throughout my journey News Crew This month, eleven years ago, the world was hit by an unknown enemy - the in NS so I want to do my very best to make SEVERE ACUTE RESPIRATORY SYNDROME, more commonly remembered as SARS. them feel proud.” Editor Our Army played a crucial role when called into action, from contact tracing to first Mel Ferdinands Photographers line of defence with Thermal Imaging devices. We relook at the events of the time. SCT Wan Cin Lee (Photograph, middle) Boey Jun Wei from Artillery developed the passion for the Deputy Editor Matthew Lim Last month we brought you a feature on Konfrontasi. We are heartened that one uniform since Secondary school when she Melvin Loo Terrance Yee of our readers has since stepped forward to provide us with an eyewitness account Over 1100 Specialist Cadets from In his address to the graduands, Mr was in the Red Cross uniformed group. She Roy Chong of that fateful day in March 1965. Thank you Mr Wilson David for sharing your tale the 18/13 Specialist Cadet Course (SCC) Masagos said, “We will count on you to recalled her most difficult obstacle in SCS. Aaron Ng Assistant with us. graduated at Pasir Laba Camp on the engage the soldiers under your charge. She said “After falling through the APEX Editors Graphic evening of 28 March. The cadets had Train them well and help them maximise ladder during BMT, I was afraid to try again Lim Chen You We visit the Military Police Enforcement Unit to find out more about what our undergone a 22-week training course to their strengths. Unlock their potential and but the Sergeants in SCS motivated me to Aloysius Lum Designers Redcaps do - their duties and responsibilities. We also bring you a new monthly Sim Chun You graduate as Specialists of the SAF and to motivate them to give their best during push on and after completing it, the sense feature where we look at the history of Our Army’s different formations, and their receive their well earned chevrons. The training, but always, always have their of accomplishment was indescribable.” She Writers Marcus Yeo respective logos. reviewing officer was Senior Minister of well-being and safety in mind. Be genuine continued “To the females intending to join Edmund Heng Oon Ming Shen Facebook State (Home Affairs and Foreign Affairs), Mr in your actions and words to earn the the force, if you have the passion you should Last but certainly not least, we would also like to take this opportunity to thank Leong Khee Shuen Representative Masagos Zulkifli. respect and trust of your men. Spend time pursue it; it’s an experience indescribable.” Lim Wei Liang Lee Xiang Rong MG Ravinder Singh, our former Chief of Army, who handed over his command to BG Jack Leong Perry Lim on 21 March. Sir, we thank you for your sterling leadership, command and guidance and wish you all the very best in the next leg of your journey. ARMY NEWS is a monthly publication of the Veterans’ Visit to Singapore Army Museum Singapore Army. The opinions and views in Our Army - Ready, Decisive, Respected. Story by Leong Khee Shuen / Photography by Aloysius Lum this newsletter are those expressed by the Melvin S Ferdinands writers and do not reflect the official views of Editor of Army News the Ministry of Defence. All rights reserved. Subjected to the provisions of the Copyright The Singapore Army Museum hosted Act, 1986, no part of this publication may in any form or by any means (electronic, war veterans from the Malaysian Veteran mechanical, microcopying, photocopying, Group on 6 March 2014. Led by Lt Kol recording or otherwise) be reproduced or PASSING ON THE BATON Ahmad Kishairi Bin Zainuddin, President of transmitted without prior written permission from the publisher. Appointment Incoming Outgoing the Ex 1st Royal Malay Regiment (1 RMR) Services Association, these veterans were CHIEF OF ARMY BG PERRY LIM CHENG YEOW MG RAVINDER SINGH given a tour of the museum. The veterans Visit us online! were shown how the Singapore Army has COMMANDER SPECIALIST AND Read Army News on the internet at COL CHIN SUN WERN KEVIN COL LEE YONG HENG transformed over the years as well as the http://www.army.sg WARRANT OFFICER INSTITUTE changes that have occurred since the start Have something you wish CO 23 SA LTC SOH CHUN KIAT LTC HUANG MIAW YI of National Service in 1967. to share with us? If you have any articles to contribute or sugges- CO 6 SIR LTC XU YOUFENG LTC PANG LEAD SHUAN Director of Singapore Army Museum, tions about our newsletter, contact us at : [email protected] Andrew de Silva led the veterans around the LTC TEY LIAN CHEONG, CO ICTC 1 ITI LTC DE ZILVA LINNAEUS CLINTON museum, explaining the relevance of the ARMY NEWS MAVERICK Singapore Army Museum, “The Singapore (Suggestions and Feedback) COMDT SAFDB SAF MP LTC TEY LIAN CHEONG, Army Museum is here to enlighten the 308 Gombak Drive, #04-28 SLTC LIM HOCK SIONG COMMAND MAVERICK Bukit Panjang Camp, Blk I, Singapore 669646 younger generation on the need to serve Tel : 6427 0460/6427 0465 Fax : 6427 0640 CO LOGS MGT & LEADERSHIP National Service. Since the majority of our LTC ONG YIH TERK ME6 CHUAH YEOW SENG CEN ALTI troops are NSmen, it is essential to get the support from the public whether old or CO 2 GSSB LTC CHUA YONG CHIN - young.” of the Singapore Army at the end of the Impressed with the technology, the screening. veterans reminisced about their past in the CO 351 SCE MAJ LOH CHIA SIONG LTC(NS) CHIA PHEK LENG The veterans were also given a chance Army and shared how the army has become to witness how the Air Force, Navy and Moving on to the high tech shooting much better over the years. At the end of CO 716 SIR MAJ NAM CHEE WEI - the Army worked together in Singapore, simulator, the veterans got a chance to the experience, the veterans left with a through a short video clip. The show left a try out the assault rifle SAR 21 (Singapore deeper understanding of the Singapore fb.me/oursingaporearmy @oursgarmy youtube.com/OurSingaporeArmy lasting impression on these veterans and Assault Rifle - 21st Century) which was Army and felt assured, knowing Singapore @oursingaporearmy thesingaporearmy.tumblr.com they applauded the effort and cohesiveness designed and manufactured in Singapore. was in safe hands. 3 Our Army

I want to personally thank every soldier in the Singapore Army for their “commitment, dedication and sacrifice. It has been a real honour and privilege public outreach initiatives, including to be given the opportunity the Army Open House 2012 and the to serve alongside all of Operation Blue Ridge exhibition in the heartlands. MG Ravinder Singh served you as a soldier. as a key member in the Committee to Strengthen National Service and ardently supported efforts to make our soldiers’ time more meaningful in NS. Against a backdrop of an MG Ravinder Singh, who enlisted assortment of military hardware, 10 ” in 1982, has served the nation with In his farewell speech, MG Ravinder parade contingents from the various pride and dedication. Among his Singh said, "I want to personally thank army formations as well as the Guard- various key leadership appointments every soldier in the Singapore Army of-Honour contingent comprising in the SAF, MG Ravinder Singh has for their commitment, dedication and soldiers from the Commando been the Commander of 6th Division, sacrifice. It has been a real honour and Formation and the 2nd People's Chief of Staff – Joint Plans and privilege to be given the opportunity Defence Force, marched onto Leaders' Deputy Secretary (Technology). to serve alongside all of you as a Square to commemorate the the Chief Under his leadership as our COA, the soldier. I will be handing over to of Army (COA) Change of Command Singapore Army maintained a high Brigadier-General Perry Lim. Perry is Chief of Army (COC) Parade, which was held on the level of operational readiness. He an accomplished soldier and a leader. evening of 21 March at Pasir Laba commanded Operation Blue Ridge in He looks at the little things that are Camp. Change of Command Afghanistan, which was a litmus test important to our soldiers. As a leader, of the Army’s operational capabilities. he does what is right for our soldiers Story by Oon Ming Shen / Photography by Aloysius Lum, Lim Chen You, Our outgoing COA, MG Ravinder He oversaw the operationalisation of and for our Army. I am confident that Parade Matthew Lim, Terrance Yee, Sim Chun You Singh s/o Harchand Singh, handed 3rd Generation military capabilities, he will bring our Army forward and his command over to our incoming with the first Motorised Infantry make it even stronger." COA, BG Perry Lim Cheng Yeow. The Battalion declared operational in May witnessing officer for the COC was 2011 and the High Mobility Artillery BG Perry Lim enlisted in 1990. He Chief of Defence Force, LG Ng Chee Rocket System commissioned in was awarded the SAF (Overseas) Meng. The Parade Commander was September 2011. A firm believer of the Scholarship and President’s COL Fadzully Bin Abas and the Parade need for public support for National Scholarship in 1991. He graduated Regimental Sergeant Major was MWO Service, he implemented many from the University of Cambridge Ng Chin Teck. with a Bachelor of Arts (Starred First) (Mechanical Engineering). In 2008, BG Lim was awarded the Lee Kuan Yew Postgraduate Scholarship to pursue a Master of Business Administration at INSEAD Singapore. BG Lim has held the appointments of Head, Joint Plans and Transformation Department; Commander, 3rd Division and Chief of Staff – General Staff.

The Singapore Army would like to express its gratitude to MG Ravinder Singh for his leadership and many years of stellar service to the nation and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors. At the same time, Our Army would like to warmly welcome BG Perry Lim as our new Chief of Army.

4 APRIL 2014 5 Cover Story Our Army C Y, MAIN SUPPLY & EVACUATION ROUTE (MSER) CHALLENGE 13/14 Story contributed by HQ CSSCOM/Photos by Lim Wei Liang

The 13th edition of Main Supply & SORRY THANKS Evacuation Route (MSER), an annual signature event of the Combat Service Support Command (CSSCOM), took place on 14 March 2014 at Kranji Camp 3. Commander CSSCOM, BG Tan Peng Kuan, flagged off the race at 0700hrs. -CY2 BG Tan was also one of the runners in the HQ CSSCOM Chain-of-Command (COC) Team.

The MSER Challenge incorporates team work, determination, physical strength and strategic planning - essential elements of proficient BG Tan Peng Kuan flagging off the race Combat Service Support (CSS). It aims to promote cohesion though fitness, and forge comradeship amongst logisticians within the Army.

This year, 40 teams from various CSSCOM units, Divisions and Defence Partners competed with each other at six challenging pit stops, each representing the functional arms of CSS – Supply, Transport, Maintenance, Medical, Ammunition and Human Resource, plotted along a 5km race route spanning Kranji Camp II & III. The six stations symbolised the essential work of CSSCOM in operations, with different groups of soldiers coming together as one united CSS community.

For the first time in MSER history, soldiering fundamentals (SOFUN) activities were infused together with the CSS tasks at the various checkpoints screen in a prominent location on the The Army Medical Services (HQ AMS) to encourage competition and fighting event premises which was networked emerged as the Overall Champion spirit among the teams, emphasising to the operations centre. In that way, for this year’s MSER Challenge, with a the belief that “We are Soldiers first we could provide real-time updates on combined timing of 1hr 27min 03sec then Logisticians”. the progress of the different teams, as for the COC and Open categories. The well as the pictures taken during the team leader, ME3 Mazlan Bin The atmosphere of this year’s MSER event, to the participants." Mohammad Khalid, attributes their Challenge was also different. According success to good teamwork. He said, to SLTC Owe Kok Beng, Commanding At the parade square, one could "Our formula for success is very simple, Officer, Army Logistics Training Centre feel the race atmosphere intensify that is having a strong team spirit. (CO ALTC) (left) and the Chairperson as supporters cheered for their team During the challenge, we encouraged of the Organising Committee for at the finishing line. For the non- one another during the trying parts, the MSER Challenge, "In this year's competitors, the 5km Fun Run offered and our team worked seamlessly to MSER Challenge, we leveraged on a satisfying morning workout too. complete the different checkpoints technology. We set up a television during the challenge."

6 APRIL 2014 7 Feature Military Police Enforcement Unit Story by Oon Ming Shen / Photography by Sim Chun You

Silent Precision Drill Squad best. CPL Marcus Leong noted, “We Presidential Guards The traffic outriders enforce traffic laws even out of military camps. For instance, have to uphold the image of the SAF. governing military vehicles and drivers the law enforcers ensure servicemen do We always have to be professional and in SAF premises. The traffic outriders not smoke outside of camps in uniform disciplined to reflect the values that the patrol roads often used by military and arrest Absent Without Official Leave SAF embodies.” vehicles to catch errant military drivers. (AWOL) servicemen. They also escort heavy military vehicles On a personal level, the squad or large convoys involving platforms “There are many learning members also enjoy what they do. CPL such as Leopard Tanks and High Mobility opportunities for me, as we must do a Koh Kai Wei said, “I’m lucky to be in the Artillery Rocket Systems. lot of communicating. For instance, we silent precision drill squad. There is also must convince the family members of a lot of room for creativity in our drill The ceremonial guards are responsible LCP Goh Si Kai, who deals with Bike the AWOLees to get them to surrender. It’s much harder than it looks: without repertoire.” for conducting ceremonial functions Maintenance, said, “Being in the traffic The operations are also very interesting. he Military Police any commands, the Silent Precision Drill at the Istana. Every day, there are at platoon has made me more aware We work in small teams and the team T Squad throw their Lee Enfield Mk. IV of traffic regulations. As traffic law spirit is very strong. We can read each least seven ceremonial guards who Enforcement Unit enforcers, we must always be responsible rifles into the air in tandem, letting them Security Operations Detachment are deployed at the Istana, to conduct other and work together seamlessly,” (MPEU) is responsible spin a few rounds before catching them parade duties. and abide by the laws in order to set a noted CPL Elston Foo. for maintaining deftly, all at the same instant. The word good example.” “silent” in the name of the squad refers LCP Huang Yu Ming, a Presidential law and order and to how no commands are given and the Guard, quipped, “Our job can be very upholding good drills are performed without any verbal tiring as we have to stand for long prompting. periods. Sometimes insects may land discipline amongst on our faces but we have to keep still!” servicemen. As part of LCP Huang also shared that they had its peacetime duties, to undergo a very stringent selection test and adhere to a strict training MPEU also performs program. ceremonial duties for 3SG Brian, an Escort Operation IC, said, various military and Jokes aside, LCP Huang realizes one “We play a very big role in the SAF as simple fact: “The stakes are very high safety is a key issue in the military. As a state functions. The Security Operations Detachment and we cannot make mistakes.” 3SG commander, I have extra responsibility takes care of security at large-scale Meswara Velan, a Section Commander, as I must look after my men on the events such as the National Day Parade echoed this view: “As Presidential Guards road.” The members of the squad go through and their presence serves as a deterrence performing our duties at the Istana, we extensive training: a basic course to any malicious activities. must always uphold the image of the Law Enforcement lasting one month and an advance SAF and Singapore.” course that spans three months. Such “It’s always an eye-opener when we rigorous training hardens them into attend so many different events. We also Traffic Enforcement experts, at which point mistakes are not work together with people from different tolerated. After all, the squad performs units, so we get to see how they operate, CPL Phang Yuanxin said, “It’s important at important ceremonies, such as the which is really interesting,” said 3SG to enforce military laws, such as bringing Change of Guards ceremony at the Dylan Quek, a Section Commander. AWOLees to justice. In this case, it’s Istana. CPL Koh Kai Wei said, “We are the vital to ensure that every Singaporean ‘face’ of the SAF as the public often sees “Our presence deters any crime and son serves his NS in the interest of us performing at the Istana. So there is we are prepared to respond immediately fairness.” really no room for errors.” to any emergencies,” commented 3SG Nicholas Foo, also a Section Commander. The soldiers in charge of law Despite the strictness of their work, “I take my work very seriously to ensure enforcement are responsible for the squad members all understand how the security of the events.” ensuring servicemen adhere to military important their job is and give it their regulations and behave appropriately,

8 APRIL 2014 9 History Remembering Konfrontasi: The MacDonald House Bombing Through the Man’s Best Friend Eyes of Wilson David With Oon Ming Shen / Photography by Lim Wei Liang, Lim Chen You and contributed by Wilson David Our Military Working Dogs Story by Oon Ming Shen / Photography by Sim Chun You The MacDonald House Working dogs form an integral part of the Military Police. Bombing As part of the Military Working Dog Unit (MWDU), they seek The bombing occurred on "At that time, most luxury shopping centers had a lift attendant. The out dangerous and contraband items, and deter any potential 10 March 1965, 3.07pm, at criminal activity. Such working dogs are referred to as “K-9”, MacDonald House lift attendant was a homophone of “canine”. The Military Police Command (MP MacDonald House, which writhing in front of the building, Comd) employs the use of sniffer dogs – which detect arms and was also known as the Hong covered in blood and moaning. The explosives, and narcotics – as well as guard dogs. Kong and Shanghai Bank Hong Kong Bank was the worst hit, Building at that time. Located with rubble everywhere and bodies trapped underneath. Guard dogs protect military installations such as air, naval and in Orchard Road, its position is ammunition bases, as well as other key installations like Jurong Island and Sembawang Wharves. Sniffer dogs are trained to directly opposite the current detect narcotics, and arms and explosives, thereby preventing Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station. narcotic abuse among servicemen and boosting the security of The bombing occurred during military camps. For instance, navy vessels back from overseas the Indonesian-Malaysian deployment will be thoroughly searched by sniffer dogs to confrontation, also called ensure that servicemen comply with Singapore’s Misuse of Drugs Act. Sniffer dogs also play a key role in major events such Konfrontasi, and the bomb as the National Day Parade by ensuring no dangerous items are was planted by two Indonesian brought on site. saboteurs. Three people were killed during the attack and 33 Proud to be in the MWDU, 3SG Uday Duggal, an Operations were injured. "I used to work in Far East Motors, Sergeant, said, “Dogs are a very effective deterrent to crime. The which supplied spare parts for British fact that they’re there, their very presence, reminds potential Motor Corporation cars. My office was criminals that we are always on the lookout, ready to take them just a few buildings away from the down.” MacDonald House. I was talking to my ex-wife on the phone, when suddenly, 3SG Uday, who enjoys serving in the MWDU, commented, "My first instinct was to help the I heard a loud explosion. I told my ex- “Being in the MWDU is a unique way to serve NS. I never expected Fire Brigade and Police (at the time wife, 'I need to go, I think the ceiling to be dealing with dogs in the army.” A guard dog handler, CPL we didn’t have a Civil Defence Force). collapsed.' The plaster from the ceiling Ko Cheng De, concurred: “It’s a very different experience to have I helped to shift aside the rubble and had dropped. to deal with dogs and I get to learn a lot in MWDU. For instance, pull out the bodies from underneath. I learned how to care for and train dogs. It’s also very useful that A most gruesome sight greeted me "I had never heard such a loud sound we have to attend a course that endorses us as certified dog when I saw one of the bomb victims. before. I rushed out of the office and I handlers, as this might be useful for those who own dogs or if saw that the windscreens of the cars we decide to go into the dog training industry in the future.” "It was drizzling that day. There at Cycle and Carriage on the other was always a hawker who would sell side of Orchard Road had all shattered. The dog handlers share a very close bond with their dogs, and snacks in front of the building and Then, I saw smoke billowing from the make it a point to take good care of the dogs’ wellbeing. Their many mechanics from the nearby MacDonald House. daily routine entails a thorough cleaning of the dog kennels, warehouses would buy food from him training the dogs and grooming the dogs. “It’s meaningful to during their afternoon breaks. But Wilson David is better known as an "As I was heading toward the interact with, love and care for living beings,” 3SG Uday said. “I since it was raining, luckily for them entertainer and has performed for more MacDonald House, I saw a man lying appreciate that I get to deal with living, breathing creatures and the mechanics did not go for the break; than 40 years. In his heyday, Wilson was on the road. I mustered the help of I always treat them with the utmost respect and care that any otherwise, there might have been known as The King of Rock and Roll. His several other passers-by and carried living being should be accorded.” more casualties." fans called him Singapore's Elvis Presley him to the front of the building. I was and Singapore's Cliff Richard after he beat all the other participants in the not sure whether he was alive. early 60’s.

10 APRIL 2014 11 The year 2013 has been a significant year for our The Afghanistan deployment ”Operation Blue Ridge” (OBR) was one Army particularly in the area of overseas operations. of the longest operational deployments for the SAF and we haves learnt invaluable lessons from the deployment. MG Ravinder said, “The SAF On 22 June 2013, Chief of Army (COA), MG Ravinder Singh visited has been in Afghanistan for 6 years with almost 500 soldiers deployed. Afghanistan to mark the successful completion of SAF’s operations Through the 6 years, we have deployed a wide range of capabilities in Afghanistan. It has been 2263 days since the SAF was deployed in to do our part in the global fight against terrorism. Our soldiers have support of the peace and reconstruction effort in Afghanistan under the done their missions well, gained valuable operational experience mandate of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in 2007. and earned the respect of our coalition partners. We are glad to have been able to make a difference in the lives of the Afghan people.”

Last February, at the SAF Overseas Service Medal (OSM) presentation ceremony, Minister for Defence, Dr Ng Eng Hen also commended the soldiers who were deplyed in Afghanistan. He said, “I am proud of each serviceman as they demonstrated a high level of skill, professionalism and resilience while carrying out their duties.”

Story by Oon Ming Shen

While they were in Afghanistan, Our soldiers were praised by our coalition partners. Commander ISAF, General Joseph Dunford said, “What I truly want to do is to thank the people of Singapore for their sacrifice and commitment to Afghanistan. Your contributions have allowed Afghans to take the lead and the stable, peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan we see today is something that the people of Singapore should be proud of.”

With the closure of OBR, Our Army held Roadshows and Exhibitions at various heartland locations and at Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza to share with the public our mission in Afghanistan.

12 APRIL 2014 13 Feature Cover Story

14 APRIL 2014 15 In 2013, our Army participated in numerous overseas exercises, Armored Regiment and their German counterpart, gave both sides which honed our soldiers’ warfighting skills and strengthened many learning opportunities. For the Singapore tankees, they relations with our foreign partners. Soldiers who participated in could train in live-firing ranges with three times the maximum these exercises had the opportunity to train in different conditions firing ranges of those in Singapore. to prepare them to be adaptive and resilient. On an individual and organisational level, bilateral exercises also allow our Army to Exercise Chandrapura (XC), between the Indonesian Army’s elite reaffirm ties with other countries and reaffirm our commitment as Komando Pasukan Khusus and the SAF’s 1st Commando Battalion, a responsible international partner. was held in May. XC is the 20th in its series and an opportunity for both sides to train together and share knowledge on Special Forces Exercise Thunder Warrior (XTW) was held in Waiouru, New tactics, techniques and procedures. Zealand from 13 to 30 January. The 21st Battalion, Singapore Artillery and 24th Battalion, Singapore Artillery, participated in this annual artillery exercise.

Story by Jotham Yeo

The Vietnam People’s Army also invited the SAF Central Band and the SAF Music & Drama Company to Hanoi for a joint performance. The performers from Singapore and Vietnam jointly performed at the Army Theater and Ly Thai To Park.

In Australia, the SAF collaborated with the Australian Defence Force in Exercise Wallaby (XWB) at the Shoalwater Bay Training Area. XWB 2013 also marked the first Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief Exercise held in the Shoalwater Bay Training Area.

Exercise Forging Sabre 2013 (XFS 13) was the fourth instalment In March, Exercise Bold Kurukshetra, the ninth bilateral armour in the series since the first Exercise Forging Sabre in 2005. XFS 13 exercise between the Singapore Armed Forces and the Indian Army was an integrated live-firing exercise by the Army and the Republic was held. The Singapore Army and the Indian Army participated of Singapore Air Force, and took place in Phoenix, Arizona, USA in an integrated live-firing exercise involving military vehicles and from 2 to 17 December 2013. tanks. Our Army values such overseas exercises because they enable us Between 8 April to 21 May, Singapore and Germany held Exercise to keep our systems well oiled, we are also grateful to our foreign Panzer Strike. This exercise, involved the 48th Battalion, Singapore partners for their support.

16 APRIL 2014 17 For the past year, our Army has participated in activities that have earned the respect of both Singaporeans and our international partners.

The mutual respect between the Singapore Army and our partners was reaffirmed in the numerous military exercises that it participated in; including but not limited to: Exercise Lightning Strike (US), Exercise Segamat Bersatu (Malaysia) and Exercise Kocha Singa (Thailand). Through the exchange of military knowledge, our Army not only built strong relationships with other armies, but also improved the effectiveness of our Army through the exchange of military knowledge.

For the past year, the Army has also been active in organising several outreach programmes to students and the public,

Story by Lim Wei Liang

various locations around Singapore, has also allowed the public to better appreciate the valuable role that our soldiers play in deployments overseas.

To reaffirm our position as a well-respected organisation, our Army will continue to work towards which were well received. Other organised activities for its partner establishing strong relationships with than the SAF-Schools Partnership schools; the exhibition on the SAF’s Singaporeans and other defence Programme (SSPP), whereby SAF units 6-year mission to Afghanistan, held at partners.

18 APRIL 2014 19 History

On 1 December 1969, 30 men came together under the name "Regular Battalion". They were housed in a corner of the then Singapore Armed Forces Training Institute (SAFTI - now Pasir Laba Camp) and within a year and a half, the unit grew in size and it needed larger premises. They were moved to Changi Camp and the unit was renamed: The 1st Commando Battalion (1 CDO).

In 1971, the SAF changed the standard headdress from jungle- hats to berets. It was then that the Commandos adopted the red beret and it has become the symbol of the Every Stiletto is branded with the SAF commandos ever since. On 22 January Commandos logo. 1977, then Minister of Defence, Dr. Goh Keng Swee, awarded 1 CDO with the State and Regimental Colours The original logo of the SAF Commando Unit. As part of the inauguration of HQ School of Commando for its training, administrative and Training (HQ SOCT) in 1981, the Winged Bayonet was operational efficiency. In 1978, the introduced as the emblem of the commandos. School of Commando Training (SOCT) was formed and the SAF's first Ranger Course was conducted. In 1984, the Special Operations Force was formed although the existence was not revealed to the public by the Ministry of Defence until 20 February 1997.

The formation of HQ SOCT on 1 October 1981 saw the introduction of a new formation logo that would be the symbol of the commandos for years to come; the winged bayonet emblem. The respective logos of SOTC (left) and SOTAC (right) Along with the new logo, they adopted the new motto: For Honour and Glory. On 29 November 1989, HQ Since 1986, the Stiletto has been The bayonet signifies that they It replaced the emblem for the old SAF Commando was inaugurated owing awarded to every Commando who has are an infantry unit Commando Unit. to the need for an organisational completed his course. Only trainees structure that would be the policy- who have successfully completed their In 1986, the Commandos from making body for the formation. Soon arduous qualification journey will earn 2nd Company were the first SAF after the hijacking of SQ 117 and the the right to be recognised as part of Commandos to be presented with subsequent successful rescue in 1991, the Commando family. The Stiletto The motto of the Commandos, The Wings denote the Commandos' the Stiletto; a double-edged combat our Commandos earned the Medal has featured in many emblems of “For Honour and Glory” lies below Airborne status, all commandos are knife with a sharp point. It was a knife of Valour. That very same year, to the Commandos, such as the Special the winged bayonet. The motto of Airborne trained as a method of that was made famous by British recognise their operational readiness Operations Force and the Special the commandos is to remind them insertion. Commandos during World War II. Since and efficiency, the CommandoOperations Tactics Centre. to achieve each mission for the then, all commandos are presented Formation was awarded the Formation honour and glory of the formation with their stiletto upon receiving their Colours and Streamer by President and the nation. Red Beret. Wee Kim Wee.

20 APRIL 2014 21 Feature 27th SEA Games Story by Oon Ming Shen / Photographs contributed by Nicole Tan and Mok Ying Ren

In the 27th SEA Games held CPT (Dr) Mok (right) performing CPR on a high-fidelity mannequin at Myanmmar, Singapore sent a contingent of 310 athletes Blazing the Trail to compete. In total, we Defying all the odds, CPT (Dr) Mok for the triathlon event in the 2007 SEA Having almost completed his MOCC managed to clinch 34 gold Ying Ren clinched Singapore’s first gold Games held at Thailand. at the time of the interview, he shares medals, 29 silver medals and at the recently-concluded Myanmar his NS experience thus far: “The course 45 bronze medals. Ms Nicole SEA Games. Finishing with a time of 2 CPT (Dr) Mok considers himself has prepared us to become medical Tan Ling Chiao and CPT (Dr) hours, 28 minutes and 35 seconds, CPT fortunate that his commanders were officers very well. The training is holistic (Dr) Mok had arrived in Myanmar at very understanding and supportive, and hones our skill as both physicians Mok Ying Ren were two of the only 5pm the day before the race – he even though the MOCC ran a tight and soldiers. After I complete my 310 athletes who participated was undergoing his Medical Officers’ schedule. He noted, “My instructors course, I hope to get a posting that and won gold medals. Conversion Course (MOCC) and had were very nice and understanding, will allow me to train consistently and just booked out a day before the SEA giving me permission to train by serve well as a medical officer too.” Games. Any chance of winning was myself. My course mates also gave me made even bleaker by the fact that a lot of support and this gave me the CPT (Dr) Mok Ying Ren was Shooting for Gold he had a cough and a strained thigh strength to persevere.” commissioned at the 77th MOCC muscle. Graduation Parade on 19 Feb, becoming a newly-minted medical Ms Tan was formerly a regular CPT (Dr) Mok admitted, “I wasn’t officer of the SAF. lieutenant in the Singapore Army. confident of winning initially. There was During the 27th SEA Games at a lot of media hype and it was stressful Myanmar, she clinched the gold medal for me. Additionally, the conditions at the women's 25m pistol competition. were not ideal as it was a hilly course.” She credits her achievements to the Fortunately, he persevered through training she received in the Army: the 42.195km. The training that he "Being an Infantry officer in the Army underwent in his MOCC helped, he has inculcated in me many values said: “Through training events in NS such as discipline, professionalism, such as road marches and field camps, perseverance and confidence. These I built up my perseverance and mental qualities laid the foundation for me to resilience.” win a gold medal in the women's 25m pistol competition in the SEA Games. This victory is a significant milestone It was truly an honour to bear the in Singapore’s sporting history, with Singapore flag and singing 'Majulah CPT (Dr) Ying Ren being the first man Singapura' on the stage was the in Singapore to emerge champion at a sweetest moment of my life.” Ms Tan at the ASEAN Armies Rifles Meet 2012 marathon in the SEA Games. Another of his accomplishments is a gold medal

22 APRIL 2014 23 Feature

When the super-disease SARS Centre outbreak. struck Singapore 11 years ago, there LG (NS) Neo recounts the challenge was a great sense of uncertainty faced by the MOH officials. “To contact- and fear among Singaporeans. trace, you need software to help you Schools were closed, and there was link up data. Excel spreadsheets and all a widespread shortage of foodstuff are fine when the numbers are small, due to the closure of the Pasir Panjang but when the numbers are as large Wholesale Centre. Singaporeans grew as the Pasir Panjang case, it’s just not fearful of contracting SARS, many doable,” he said.* choosing not to go out. It was not just a battle against the disease itself; it The computer infrastructure was also was also a battle against the fear that inadequate in handling the spike in existed in Singaporeans’ hearts. the amount of people to be contract- traced. The SAF, together with its The government not only had to partner agency, the Defence Science control the spread of SARS, it also Technology Agency (DSTA), assisted had to restore normalcy to our way of MOH with the setting up of a National life. One way this was achieved was Contact Tracing Centre. DSTA provided to impose Home Quarantine Orders MOH with the computer systems (HQOs) on people who had come into and know-how needed to conduct contact with SARS patients. In order extensive contact-tracing operations. Remembering Our Army's to effectively determine the people to quarantine, there was a need to The SAF also provided the MOH with conduct contact-tracing. Our soldiers to assist the MOH officials Fight Against with contact-tracing operations. At the beginning of the SARS The extra manpower provided by Story by Lim Wei Liang outbreak, the contact-tracing system the Army proved to be useful. The Pingat Penghargaan SARS was operated by a small group of soldiers, including full-time National (Tentera) Ministry of Health (MOH) officials, Servicemen (NSFs), not only helped (SARS) using excel spreadsheets. The officials MOH officials with the compilation relied upon hospital visitor records to of data into a national database from deployed at the Changi International determine the people to be served scratch, they also helped to make calls Airport. Working alongside nurses from HQOs, which was limited due to its to retrieve missing information from the MOH, they screened passengers lack of comprehensive detail and the people who had been contact- arriving from other countries for signs information as these records may not traced. of fever. The experience was similar to have been able to trace every contact. being on the front-line, except that it Some of the Army soldiers were also was against an unseen enemy – SARS. Furthermore, the system also proved deployed to man the MOH call centre, to be inadequate in conducting which was receiving an ever-increasing The soldiers working tirelessly at contact-tracing operations on a larger number of calls from the public, their posts at the National Contact scale, when there was an outbreak of general practitioners or people serving Tracing Centre and the Changi SARS at the Pasir Panjang Wholesale HQOs, who had many questions about International Airport 11 years ago Centre, leading to more than 2,400 the SARS epidemic. played an important part in containing people needing to be quarantined. the spread of the SARS epidemic. This With the hardware and manpower episode has shown that the SAF is That was when the SAF, led by LG (NS) provided by the SAF, the contact- not only effective in its role of military (then BG) Neo Kian Hong, was called in tracing operations became much more defence, but was also able to put its to bring the situation under control. effective, enabling the MOH to send out manpower and resources to great LG (NS) Neo was then the Commander HQOs in time. This played an important use by assisting other government of 9th Division (9 DIV). While the small role in containing the spread of SARS agencies in resolving a national crisis. team of MOH officials was able to within a short period of time. contact-trace up to 500 people per *Quote of LG (NS) Neo Kian Hong, day, it was unable to handle the 2,400 The SAF’s contributions in battling obtained from ‘A Defining Moment - people that had to be contact-traced SARS was not only limited to contact- How Singapore Beat SARS’ by Chua Mui from the Pasir Panjang Wholesale tracing. 50 Army medics were also Hoong

24 APRIL 2014 25 “The P015 batch of Combat Medic “When the SARS Crisis happened, “During the SARS Crisis in 2013, I Course had 2 platoons and I was there was an important briefing at the was the Wing Sergeant Major of SMM’s in charge of Platoon 1. All of them Ministry of Health that my OC and I were National Service Training Wing (NSTW). knew that their mission was to assist informed to attend. On our way back Due to the need for more medics to the Ministry of Health in screening to camp, we were notified that we had be trained, I was appointed Course travellers arriving from overseas. to be under Home Quarantine because Sergeant Major of P015 Combat Medic Despite knowing the dangers of SARS one of the nurses at the meeting was Course. I remember that we had the which had caused a number of deaths, suspected of having been in contact mammoth task of de-conflicting the the trainees did their part for Singapore with a SARS patient. Fortunately, the training resource requirements for the and took their training seriously so Home Quarantine lasted only two days additional course and we often had that they could do their job well in because we were later told that she to make ends meet by staying back to safeguarding our points of entry. was not infected. It was a big relief conduct night lessons. Nonetheless, we Answering the call because there were cases of hospital were glad that we helped to produce Contributed by HQAMS / Photography contributed by the interviewees, Edmund Heng As their Senior Instructor, I did my workers becoming ill with SARS and the medics to reinforce our healthcare best to impart my knowledge and some of them passed away in the line workers in the war against SARS.” Airport round the clock to screen whose usual work involved training skills to them. They were a good batch of duty.” arriving international travellers. medical NSmen. These four individuals of medics and I am proud to have - ME3 Lakshmanan together with a few more NSF medic been a part of their National Service, (During the SARS Crisis, she attended I recall that SMM’s Basic Training Wing instructors rose to the call to make the helping our nation fight against SARS. a MOH meeting with CPT Megala Devi, (BTW) was running at full capacity additional Medic Course a reality so I still have the group photo taken with OC of BTW which resulted in both at that time. The OC of BTW was CPT that the required number of personnel Platoon 1(Main photo).” of them getting placed under Home [now CPT(Retired)] Megala Devi and could be trained. CPT Leong was Quarantine) the Course Commander of the Medic appointed as the Course Commander - ME3 Savitri Course, batch number P014, was 2WO while 2WO Lakshmanan, MSG Savitri - ME3 Karuppiah Saraswathi [now ME3] K. Saraswathi. As BTW was and MSG Salmah became the Senior already training approximately 270 Instructors. I am glad that they did what medic trainees back then, they were they did so that more medics could not able to cope with running another be trained to deal with the SAR Crisis. Medic Course. This allowed the medical personnel at our various SAF Medical Centres to In order to start the additional continue to focus on the provision of “I was Officer Commanding (OC) but necessary Medic Course (batch healthcare at our various camps. of the National Service Training Wing number P015) to train the required (NSTW) at the then-School of Military medical manpower, we had to quickly The SARS Crisis was a difficult time Medicine (SMM) during the SARS Crisis. get an officer and a few WOSPECs from in our nation’s history when SAF rose Due to the need for more medics during NSTW to be their Course Commander to the challenge in our nation’s time of the crisis, SMM was tasked by HQ SAF and Senior Instructors. need. It was a time when our people Medical Corps (HQMC) to conduct an demonstrated perseverance and additional Medic Course to train NSF Under my command at NSTW, I had commitment when called upon to personnel from various vocations (e.g. CPT [now CPT(NS)] Bobby Leong, 2WO serve.” clerks, signallers, etc.). The purpose [now ME3] Lakshmanan, MSG [now was to deploy them at the Changi ME3] Savitri and the late MSG Salmah - ME5 Daniel Chia

26 APRIL 2014 27 In Your Words

050314 SAF Combat Rations – Feeding Generations of Singaporean Soldiers Jeremy Rozario - just a tip, majority of soldiers always complain that the green packs got a 1 kind taste: soln is to open the pack and let it air for a few minutes, much better after. ------070314 War-relic found! SAF EOD on site to make sure Welcoming our new Chief of Army it is safely removed. (Posted on 220314) Loh Kaiwen - SAF EOD.... probably the only SAF unit that gets activated the most for REAL OPS... THE where NSFs and Regulars put their live on the line and get tested over and over again. No room for Hooking up, Ready to go! SINGAPORE ARMY mistakes. I SALUTE U! ------FACEBOOKfb.me/oursingaporearmy 080314 The RSAF launched a C130 to assist with the search of MH 370 What’s Hot! aircraft. Ibrahim Bulat - Well done RSAF . Your spontenuos reaction reflects What’s Trending! our sincere intention of good Viral! neighbourliness. I am proud to be WHaT’s a Singaporean. ------

090314 The RSN provide SSRV equipped to perform underwater search of MH 370 aircraft Boon Ping Tie - Good one Singapore NAVY! Do what we can for our neighbour Malaysia to help The Singapore Army wishes all in locate the lost plane, my prayers are with them and your mission, ladies a happy International bring all safely home soon. Thank you. Women’s Day! ------(Posted on 080314) 210314 Marching-in of the Colours at COA COC

Albert Wong Ong Cheng - I for one Windows User. am always touched when I see the #OurSgArmy flags being marched in or out of parades! And of course proud also! (Posted on 230314)

@oursingaporearmy

28 APRIL 2014