Support of all is vital for a strong SAF

On Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Day today, I would like to take the opportunity as an educator and a parent to share my thoughts on our nation’s military defence.

When I gaze out over my school’s parade square of approximately 1,200 boys, I have to remember that most of them will one day carry arms in the defence of Singapore. And so will my three sons in primary school.

There is no glory in war, but there is honour in preventing it. I am confident that all these Singaporean sons will be guided by their commanders, whether in the armed forces, civil defence or police, to do just that.

I look forward to the vocational and interpersonal skills, discipline, respect for authority and love for country my sons will develop, just as their father did, during National Service (NS).

A strong defence is the cornerstone of Singapore’s peace and security, but it may not be on the minds of most.

The Ministry of Defence (Mindef) and its Advisory Council on Community Relations in Defence (Accord) partners have done much to be specific in connecting all of us with the SAF.

The Education Institutions Council focuses on the school-aged population, and the Family and Community Council addresses their parents’ needs.

Fitness, for instance, is a concern, with more youngsters eating unwisely and living a sedentary life.

Mindef is engaging with students, especially those in junior colleges, polytechnics and the Institute of Technical Education, to prepare them for the physical demands of NS.

Our staff and students appreciate the materials prepared by the Ministry of Education’s Character and Citizenship Education Branch together with Mindef’s Nexus team as we commemorate occasions such as Total Defence Day and National Day.

The SAF also encourages its personnel to reach out to schools by being available to inspect parades and conduct career talks as well as talks for parents or on security issues.

Through Accord, I learnt that talks are conducted even in Foreign System Schools, as there are permanent residents in these schools who must also be prepared for NS.

Recently, I attended a Singapore Council of Women’s Organisations session for mothers of future NS men. It made me look forward to how NS will assist in growing my boys into men, and also increased my sense of responsibility to play a part.

I have experienced first-hand the support my students’ parents give to my school: It frees us to do our work well, it inspires us to fulfil our mission and to develop their sons to their full potential.

For the SAF to defend all of us well, our support is vital.