Decked out in their No.4 uniforms, the cadets and specs were eager to get close up to the state-of-the-art weaponry and artillery used by the 3rd-Gen Singapore Armed Forces today. Upon arrival at the venue, we were each handed a souvenir in the form of a strikingly-designed cap, which the cadets then proceed to enthusiastically put on.
Our tour proper began at the entrance, where we were met by our tour guide. He took us to visit the showcases put on by the different battalions in the SAF, like the Commandos, Guards, 9th Infantry, Artillery and more. We got to see the different equipment used by the battalions, such as the current generation of No.4s issued by the SAF, with its pixilated weaving. Impressive as all these were, it was undeniable that the star of this particular show was the Armor battalions. Presenting their vehicles such as the Bionix troop carrier, people were awestruck by its imposing and menacing image.
Not to be outdone, the Air Force brought in their Apaches, and outfitted with its deadly array of missiles, it was a force to be reckoned with. After touring around the exhibitions for 25 minutes, we then headed to another exhibition. Contrary to what the average Singaporean thinks of the SAF, they are not just an armed force with guns and tanks. They were also sent on peace-keeping missions and as relief squads.
This non-military side of the SAF was what we got to see at the next exhibition. The various military personnel explained to us what the SAF did in times of crises. An excellent example would be the 2004 tsunami disaster. Just 24 hours after the incident, the SAF had already deployed a team to aid the relief effort. We were impressed with the speed with which they responded to the crisis. Next, we also got to see the dogs from the K9 unit and watched a video explaining the roles played by the different dogs, such as explosives, drugs and more.
The last exhibition we visited for the day was focused on the history of the SAF. Also showcased were a few aspects of a soldier’s life, such as his bunk, the combat rations which he gets and more. At the end of the day, everyone left with a better understanding of our SAF and instilled with a passion for our country and its people. All in all, it was a very enjoyable and memorable trip.
Done By:
2SG Heah Jian Chern
