SINGAPORE – During live firing exercises, Second Lieutenant (2LT) Joseph Tan, 19, saw how meticulous his instructors were in everything they did – from planning to execution – which helped him understand the gravity of his role as a newly minted officer.
“I saw the care they put into every single aspect of conduct to ensure it was smooth, we were able to learn effectively, and most importantly, it was safe for us,” recalled 2LT Tan hours before the commissioning parade for the 139th Officer Cadet Course at Safti Military Institute on Dec 13.
“Their professionalism made me understand the weight, the responsibility that officers have in caring for their men,” said 2LT Tan, who is the latest recipient of the Sword of Honour, which is given to the best trainee in each batch.
The army combat engineer said he considers it his duty to make a strong impact on the lives of those around him and give them a meaningful and safe national service experience. “These men have families and loved ones waiting for them at home,” he added.
At the parade, 405 cadets – comprising 320 from the Singapore Army, 49 from the Republic of Singapore Navy and 36 from the Republic of Singapore Air Force – were commissioned as officers of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).
