ISSUE 233 MARCH 2015

IN THIS ISSUE:

COMMEMORATING 50 YEARS OF THE SAF

PLUS+

THE EARLY DAYS:

MR. WEE SOON KONG
WE REMEMBER THE COLLAPSE OF
HOTEL NEW WORLD

#OurSgArmy

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Dear Fellow Soldiers,
Your generous contributions towards the Army Charity Drive 2014 exceeded our
projected target. This sum will go a long way in helping our beneficiaries, namely The
Presidents Challenge, Community Chest, SAF Care Fund, and SAF Benevolent Fund. On
behalf of our Army, I want to thank you for your donations and willingness to partake in
a good cause, and we look forward to your continued support.
Warmest Regards,
MG Perry Lim
Chief of Army

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Army News

Editorial Board

the

COL Alfred Fox

COL Chua Boon Keat
COL Paul Cheak
LTC Kee Kian Boon
CWO Ng Siak Ping
SLTC (NS) James Suresh
MAJ (NS) Sebastian Sim

we take you to Vivocity where we engaged our Public

through the SAF 50 exhibition. The presentation of
weapons on board the RSS Endurance was very also
poignant as it was timed to coincide with the time of Singapores surrender during
World War 2 .

BG Lim Hock Yu

News Crew
Head New Media
Dyson Ang

Mel Ferdinands

Deputy Editor

Photographers

Melvin Loo

Assistant
Editors

Low Kai Heng

Amos Poh
Jason Chua

Aloysius Lum
Lee Xiang Rong

We remember the tragic episode of the collapse of Hotel New World in 1986, and
the brave men who took great risks during the rescue attempts.
We also speak to one of the pioneers from the early days of our Army. Thank you
Wilson Ng for writing to us to let us know about your grandfathers incredible story.
And to all our readers, keep the stories coming!
Mel Ferdinands

Graphic
Designers

Roy Chong
Lim Wei Jian
Jeremy Hong
Leong Khee Shuen
Saravanan s/o Munusamy Lim Han Cong
Brandon Leow
Facebook
Ashwin Lee
Keita Sin
Representative
Alastair Loe

Writers

Army News would like to thank (from left) Koh

Jian Le and Matthew Lim for their service and
contributions during their stint in Army News

ARMY NEWS is a monthly publication of the

Singapore Army. The opinions and views in
this newsletter are those expressed by the
writers and do not reflect the official views of
the Ministry of Defence. All rights reserved.
Subjected to the provisions of the Copyright
Act, 1986, no part of this publication may
in any form or by any means (electronic,
mechanical, microcopying, photocopying,
recording or otherwise) be reproduced or
transmitted without prior written permission
from the publisher.

Visit us online!

Read Army News on the internet at

http://www.army.sg

Have something you wish

to share with us?

If you have any articles to contribute or

suggestions about our newsletter, contact us at :

armynews@defence.gov.sg

ARMY NEWS

(Suggestions and Feedback)

The Singapore Water Purification Delegation supporting the Malaysian Armed Forces led flood relief efforts returned
home to Singapore on 14 January. The team, which included SCDF & PUB engineers, was deployed for 2 weeks and
provided more than 130,000 Litres of clean water to those affected by the recent floods in Kelantan.

e march on towards our third month and in this issue,

Editorial Advisor

Editor

Editor Speaks

5 Depot Road, #08-10

Tower B, Defence Technology Towers,
Singapore 109681
Tel : 6277 0382/ 6277 0383 Fax : 6277 0381

Editor of Army News

PASSING ON THE BATON

I had the opportunity to distribute water to the villages, some of which were quite badly hit. Having
seen this devastation, I am glad that I was at least able to help relieve some of their worries, even if it was
only a little. I also feel that Singapore is lucky that it does not have to face such a situation; however should
something similar occur, I am confident we will be ready for it.
3SG Auzharie Bin Shakirin, part of the Singapore Water Purification Delegation

WPU
HOMECOMING

STORY | BRANDON LEOW

PHOTOGRAPHY | MATTHEW LIM

February

Appointment

Incoming

Outgoing

CO / 1 GUARDS

LTC WONG PUI CHUAN

LTC FAIROZ BIN HASSAN

CO / BMTC SCHOOL 2

LTC EDDIE KHNG WEE LIANG

LTC LEE BIN HWEE

CO / 3 ISTAR

LTC JOHN LEW TZE WAH (CAH)

LTC CHAN CHOON MENG (CAH)

CO / 234 SA

MAJ CHAN KUM TECK (CAH)

CO / 294 SA

MAJ CHOY WAI HONG (CAH)

CO / ARTILLERY VOC TRG SCH AI

SWO CHOONG KENG ON

SWO LEE CHER PIN

CO / 778 SIR

MAJ (NS) LIM KIM SOON DANIEL

LTC (NS) GOH KEE YONG

RSM / 324 SCE

3WO (NS) CAO YUEMING

MSG (NS) LEE HOU KEONG

RSM / 783 SIR

1WO NG CHIN HUN

SSM / BMTC SCH 1

MWO SIVAGNANAM S/O

OTHIRAPATHY

MWO SELUASUNDRAM S/O

NAGALINGAM

RSM/OPS WO (CAH) / 3 ISTAR BN

2WO CHAN HON GALVIN

18th BMT(V)
GRADUATION
CEREMONY
STORY | ASHWIN LEE
PHOTOGRAPHY | LIM WEI JIAN

Today marks the beginning of your life as a trained

soldier. You can stand tall and proud to join the previous
generations, who have come before you to serve NS and to
do their part for Singapore. You are our new generation of
soldiers, continuing to ensure our security
and sovereignty.
Reviewing Officer, Commander 3rd Division, BG Ong Tze-Chin

*Amendments from the last issue: For the section Passing of the Baton, the outgoing officer for 56
SAB was 2WO(NS) Larry Pee Kah Liang. For the article on 3WO Tee Kar Lin, her name was mispelled.
We apologise for the errors.

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A total of 510 servicemen from the 18th Basic Military Training (Vocational) graduated from their training
phase in Sembawang Camp on 8 January.

Army News

Army News

LAUNCH
OF SEA
GAMES
2015

STORY | BRANDON LEOW

PHOTOGRAPHY | LEONG KHEE SHUEN

The Singapore Artillery is honoured to be organising

the OCC once again. Building on our experience from
organising the Ceremonies for the 1993 Games, we
look forward to staging an inspiring and spectacular
show to kick off the 28th SEA Games. After 22
years, some of the veterans who were involved in
the previous SEA Games will bring their experience
to contribute as advisors and volunteers. We look
forward to harnessing the energies and capacities of
these diverse groups of individuals and making their
participation a meaningful and memorable journey.
Chief Artillery Officer, COL Lawrence Lim, Chairman of
the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the
28th Sea Games

4 SAB HOMECOMING RUN

STORY | CONTRIBUTED BY 4 SAB
PHOTOGRAPHY | KEITA SIN & JASON CHUA

On 15 Dec 2014 at exactly 0412* hours, 4th Singapore

Armoured Brigade (4 SAB) conducted its inaugural Home-coming
run as the Terror Brigade returned to Sungei Gedong Camp
(SGC), after being away since 2003. Carrying the Brigade
flag, the commanders and soldiers of 4 SAB ran 14.6km
from Kranji Camp II to SGC. The route was planned to
recollect memories by running past Keat Hong Camp
where 4 SAB was founded, eventually, arriving at the Home
of Armour.

Ever imagined travelling around the globe? Through the support, diligence and professionalism of these
servicemen, the Transport Formation successfully moved the Army over a combined distance of 900,000km
over the course of their National Service! That is equivalent to about 22 rounds around the earth!

Attended by family members, friends and commanders of Transport Formation, the inaugural Transport Formation
Milestone Parade was held at Sembawang Camp on 17 Jan 15. The Milestone Parade commemorates the transition of
our Full-Time National Servicemen (NSF) into the next phase of their national service as Operationally Ready National
Servicemen (ORNS).
3SG Aakash M Khot, section commander from 3rd SAF TPT BN said, My time in service has given me the time to reflect
and reconsider what was most important to me as an individual. I now have a greater appreciation on how the army
operates and the selfless dedication and commitment required as a soldier.
Army News would like to thank all our new NSmen for their support and commitment to National Service and wish
them all the best for their future endeavours. Transport Formation - Moving the Army!

FEBRUARY 2015

Transport
Formation
Milestone
Parade
STORY | SARAVANAN MUNUSAMY
PHOTOGRAPHY | LIM WEI JIAN

Chief Armour Officer, COL Kenneth Liow, welcomed 4

SAB back to SGC by officially opening the new 4 SAB building,
marking a new chapter in the long history of our nations first
Armour Brigade.
Upon reaching the new premises, the entire 4 SAB gathered
at the parade square for a symbolic flag raising ceremony at
first light. This was followed by the first-ever Brigade PT
session. Collectively, the members of the Terror Brigade
achieved 40,000 push-ups, sit ups, jumping jacks and over-head
claps respectively to signify what the Brigade can accomplish
together.
Such Brigade exercises allow soldiers to understand that they
do not fight just a platoon or a company, but they are part of a
larger system, the brigade; they fight as one. LCP Muhammad
Ariffin Bin Azmi from 12C4I shared Running and exercising

with my friends allowed me to feel like I am part of the Armour

Brigade Family.
In his remarks to the unit, Commander 4 SAB, COL Yew
Chee Leung said today, as we were running here, one word
came to mind the word TEAM which is also an acronym for
Together, Everyone Achieves More. At the end of the day, the
army is about people and the 4th Brigade is about a team; it is
about everyone coming together and contributing. It is not just
about the equipment, but is also about the men behind them. It
is about man, machine, and spirit.
To end off the homecoming run, a Brigade Connect was
conducted with everyone who participated. The simple act of
having the entire Brigade connecting and cheering as one was a
special opportunity to build camaraderie and team spirit in the
Terror Brigade.

* The time 0412 was chosen to signify the united movement of 4SAB and 12C4I

Army News

Army News

THE
LION
WITHIN
STORY | ASHWIN LEE
PHOTOGRAPHY | LEE XIANG RONG

3,770 graduating recruits were on parade with 400 NSmen from 694 SIR and 695 SIR on a united front at The Float @Marina Bay.

Passing the Torch

04/14

STORY | ASHWIN LEE & BRANDON LEOW

PHOTOGRAPHY | ALOYSIUS LUM & LEE XIANG RONG

CPT (NS) Jason Seow

handing over the
state flag to his
former student,
REC Luzerne Cheng

The 04/14 Basic Military Training Graduation

took place on 10th January 2015 at the Float @
Marina Bay. This parade marked the graduation
of the Basic Military Training (BMT) for 3,770
recruits. This was an integrated parade as the
recruits were with NSmen from 694th Battalion,
Singapore Infantry Regiment (694 SIR) and
695th Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment
(695 SIR) who were having their Stand-down
parade. The parade commander was LTC Nur
Effendi Bin Esa, Commanding Officer of
Basic Military Training Centre School 3, the
parade regimental sergeant major was 2WO
Leonard Ling, Company Chief Trainer, Apache
Company, BMTC School 1 and the Reviewing
Officer was Mr Christopher De Souza, Member
of Parliament for Holland-Bukit Timah GRC.
The parade marked the end of their Basic
Military Training and the start of the next
chapter in their NS.
In his speech, Mr Christopher De Souza,
Member of Parliament for Holland-Bukit
Timah GRC addressed the recruits, To the
recruits on parade, welcome to the kinship that
has stood guard in the defence of Singapore
since its independence. Generations of NSmen
before you have demonstrated dedication and
integrity, and we will count on you to live up to
this proud tradition. Your presence here today, is
evident of your ability, drive and determination

FEBRUARY 2015

to push your limits and excel.

As one new chapter begins, another draws to
a close. Standing tall alongside the 04/14 BMT
Cohort was 400 NSmen from 694 SIR and 695
SIR who had completed their Operationally
Ready National Service cycle. These NSmen
had taken the responsibilities of Protection of
Installation duties.
A symbolic moment for the integrated
parade was when CPT (NS) Jason Seow of 694
SIR handed over the state flag to his former
student at Swiss Cottage Secondary School,
REC Luzerne Cheng from Ninja Company.
This practice signifies the handing over of NS
duties from one generation to next. As CPT
(NS) Seow put it, To pass on the responsibility
from anoutgoing serviceman to an incoming
one and to tell him, Now its your turn. Make us
proud, marks an extremely symbolic occasion.
Hence, I feel deeply honoured to be a part of
it.It serves as a proud moment to let the entire
nation witness the importance of national
service and just how seriously we as soldiers
treat it. Everybody is responsible for protecting
our nation.
Our Army congratulates the graduating
recruits and is thankful to the NSmen of 694
SIR and 695 SIR for their service to the nation.

This Chinese New Year, dont be surprised to see an Indian

lion dance performer effortlessly pulling off moves. Offering
something different to this ancient cultural performance is LTA
Suresh Ravidran, a Liasion Trainer in the Artillery Institute. Since
he was in primary school, LTA Suresh had been interested in
Chinese mythology when he began reading about ancient Chinese
folklore. He was equally intrigued by lion dance. Whenever it
was Chinese New Year or if there was some performance in my
neighbourhood, I would quickly rush out to catch it. However I
never had an avenue to join and I pretty much assumed as a child
that I would not fit in. I gave up the thought of joining when I
was very young. Still there was always that interest in me, said
LTA Suresh. This passion however was realised in 2008, when a
Republic Polytechnic schoolmate, Jason Chua, introduced LTA
Suresh to his group, the Chee Seng Kong Dragon and Lion
Dance Activity Centre.

LTA Suresh has not looked back, practicing hard and honing
his skills for the past 6 years. Now he even knows how to
play instruments like the gong, cymbals as well as balancing the
Big Flag!

The going was tough initially. Initially I was very self-conscious

and tried to ignore people looking at me. Now if you ask me,
I kind of forgot this fact and when people stare, I would be
like what are they staring atoh yeah thats right I am Indian,
says LTA Suresh with a wide grin. Those sceptical impressions
from others did nothing to hinder his focus though, as he learned
as fast as he could with the staunch support of his teammates.
Within less than a year, LTA Suresh became proficient enough
to participate in a national lion dance competition. Since then,

LTA Suresh maintains that his passion for this Chinese

traditional sport is no big deal, though he hopes to see a more
open-minded society in future. People are generally amazed
when they find out what I do, but I honestly dont think its a
big thing. We tend to confine our minds associating a sport or
art with a specific ethnicity. If we can break away from these
stereotypes and recognise art in its true form, we may begin to
see more racial integration amongst other art forms and races as
well. I guess this is what makes us uniquely Singaporean.

Army News

Army News

The SAF Cardiac Screening System

SAF Cardiac Heart Centre

On 16 Jan, the SAF Cardiac Fitness Centre
(SCFC) was unveiled by Second Minister
for Defence Mr Chan Chun Sing. Located
within the new 12-storey National Heart
Centre Singapore building, the SCFC is a
dedicated one-stop facility that serves
pre-enlistees, SAF Regulars and SAF
Operationally Ready National Servicemen
who have been referred to by SAF Medical
Officers to undergo specialised cardiac
screening investigations to determine their
cardiovascular fitness.

Cardiac screening is an essential part of medical screening in the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) that all pre-enlistees
and servicemen have to undergo before they are enlisted and deployed for military training and operations. With the
SAF Cardiac Fitness Centre (SCFC), the SAF now has a dedicated one-stop facility that provides specialised tests in
accordance to SAF cardiac screening protocols which are aligned with international guidelines.

RISK FACTOR SCREENING

SAF Medical Centre or Medical Classification Centre
(1) ELECTROCARDIOGRAM (ECG):
Generates a tracing of the hearts electrical
impulses and rhythm. Abnormalities in the ECG
may suggest the presence of a wide variety of
heart diseases.
(2) BLOOD TESTS:
Identifies the presence of risk factors like Diabetes
Mellitus and High Cholesterol that put individuals
at higher risk of heart disease.

STORY | LEONG KHEE SHUEN

PHOTOGRAPHY | JASON CHUA WITH CONTRIBUTIONS FROM
DEFENCE MEDIA CENTRE

(3) PHYSICAL EXAMINATION:

An examination by an SAF Medical Officer may
identify abnormalities,
such as heart murmurs, which require specialist
evaluation.

Before every Singaporean son gets to serve our country,

all of us undergo a pre-enlistment medical screening at the
Medical Classification Centre located at CMPB. Cardiac
screening is a key component of medical screening in the
SAF that all pre-enlistees and servicemen undergo before
they are enlisted and deployed for military training and
operations. This ensures that servicemen are deployed
according to their medical fitness so that they can undergo
tough and rigorous training and conduct operations safely.

Individuals who
require further
cardiac examination

During my pre-enlistment screening, it was found

that I had an abnormal Electrocardiogram (ECG) reading
and I was subsequently referred to NHCS for more
specialised cardiac screening. The entire process took
about 5 months before my PES grading was decided. With
the establishment of the SCFC, the dedicated cardiac
screening infrastructure will allow for faster cardiac
screening as more pre-enlistees and servicemen can be
scheduled for specialised cardiac investigations within the
same amount of time, as compared to the former system
of decentralised specialised screening process.
Thus, medical clearance for operations and training
activities such as IPPT can be determined quicker
and more efficiently, allowing the SAF to maintain
its operational readiness by minimising deployment
downtime. Moreover, housing the specialised cardiac
screening tests within the SCFC gives pre-enlistees and
servicemen greater convenience as they no longer have to
travel to various healthcare facilities such as SAF Military
Medicine Institute and the different restructured hospitals.

Pre-enlistees and servicemen will be referred for selected

specialised cardiac screening tests depending on the type of
abnormality detected during Tier 1 Risk Factor Screening.

SPECIALISED CARDIAC
SCREENING TESTS
SAF Cardiac Fitness Centre

ASSESSMENT OF
CARDIAC FITNESS
SAF Medical Centre or
Medical Classification Centre

SPECIALIST
CONSULTATION
SAF Cardiac
Fitness Centre

ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY:
Provides information about the heart such as its size,
pumping capacity and presence of structural defects.

EXERCISE ECG (TREADMILL):

Assesses the hearts ability to
respond to physical exertion in a
safe and controlled environment
by recording continuous ECG
tracings, blood pressure and heart
rate during exercise on a treadmill.

This one-stop facility, conveniently situated at a centralised

location, allows for pre-enlistees and servicemen to go
through tests and complete their consultations within the
same facility. Cardiac Fitness is constantly evolving and
the SAF continues to refine its cardiac screening system to
provide robust and quality screening, leveraging the latest
advances in cardiac screening technology.

CT CORONARY CALCIUM SCORE:

Measures the amount of calcium
deposits in the coronary arteries of
the heart that lead to a narrowing of
the arteries in Coronary Heart Disease.

STRESS IMAGING OF THE HEART

(STRESS ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY AND MIBI SCAN):
Assesses the hearts ability to respond to physical exertion
through direct visualisation of heart contraction (Stress
Echo) and blood flow to the heart (MIBI Scan) during
exercise.

Army News

10

Enhancing MedicalCare:
Emergency Ambulance Services
STORY | BRANDON LEOW
PHOTOGRAPHY | LEONG KHEE SHUEN

As part of the SAF Emergency

Medical Support System (EMSS) review,
the SAF Emergency Ambulance Service
(EAS) was conceived to provide more
expeditious medical evacuation in SAF
training areas for serious casualties. The
EAS was launched on 19 January 2015,
enhancing the existing outfield medical
evacuation system.
The SAF EAS serves to augment
the existing casualty evacuation system.
In accordance to the Training Safety
Regulations, some outfield exercises
do not require the manning of a SAF
Ambulance and Medical Officer. In
the past, serious casualties for outfield
training activities not supported by
an SAF ambulance and SAF Medical
Officer (MO) had to be sent to the
nearest medical facility for stabilisation
before they were transferred to the
nearest restructured hospital. With the
SAF EAS, all serious outfield casualties
in these outfield exercises can now be
directly evacuated from sixteen predesignated Casualty Collection Points
(CCPs) in the SAF training areas to the
nearest restructured hospitals by the EAS

Army News

11

INAUGURATION OF MINDEF/SAF
HR SHARED SERVICES
CENTRE (HRSSC)

ambulance, whilst receiving appropriate

medical care en-route.

On 15 Jan 15, distinguished guests, friends and colleagues in the HR

community had witnessed the inauguration of the MINDEF/SAF
HRSSC at HQ Medical Corp Auditorium. The vibrant ceremony, which
marked the merger of the MINDEF/SAF HR Services Centre (HRSC)
and National Service Services Centre (NSSC), was officiated by Guestof-Honour, Director National Service Affairs, BG(NS) Tung Yui Fai.
A command symbol resembling a blazing touch was also handed to
Head HRSSC, SLTC Lee Yem Choo by Commander PERSCOM, COL
Clifford Keong.

The EAS teams will take over from

the medics on scene to evacuate the
casualty from the pre-designated Casualty
Collection Point (CCP) directly to predesignated hospitals while providing the
appropriate en-route care. This allows for
advanced resuscitative care to be brought
to the field. Each EAS Team comprises
a three person crew certified by the
National Resuscitation Council (NRC)
and they operate from six EAS bases
located in strategic SAF camps around
the island. Each EAS team will be able to
reach training areas within their range in
11 minutes.
The SAF EAS will strengthen the SAFs
existing medical support and evacuation
system. EAS paramedics are well trained,
being able to provide the same level of
medical care as a Medical Officer.
ME4 Koh Ping Wah, Formation
Sergeant Major, HQ Army Medical
Services shared his thoughts The EAS
is an enhancement to the current system.

In BG(NS) Tungs address, he highlighted that as our servicemen are

better educated and have greater exposure to information technology, they
are more outspoken and expect greater transparency of their transactions
and interaction with MINDEF. Their enquiries have increased and are
becoming more complex, spanning over different NS and HR functional
areas. To improve our NS/HR administration and delivery, it is essential
to establish a one-stop services centre, which adopts a customer-centric
approach in its service delivery. Therefore, BG(NS) Tung described the
merger of HRSC and NSSC as a natural marriage of two competent and
complementary entities.

It allows continuity of appropriate care

from the CCP to the hospital as there
is an immediate transfer from medic
to paramedic. This allows for critical
resuscitative care to be brought to the
field and augments the EMSS as the
casualty can be brought directly to the
hospital in the shortest time possible.

HRSSCs two new capabilities; an NS/HR Implementation Branch to

oversee the implementation of HR policies in harmonising the HR admin
processes, and a Case Management Branch to ensure more efficient and
effective feedback and enquiry management, will ensure greater efficiency,
effectiveness in the administration of our NSmen and Regulars.
The ceremony was subsequently brought to its height in a finale, led by Dy
Head HRSSC LTC(NS) Koh Tong Seng, through a dance performance,
reflecting HRSSCs five core values, represented by mathematical
operators.
In order to bring our services to a higher level, it is important for the policy
staff, Services department planners and ground NS/HR practitioners to
work closely together. As aptly mentioned in BG(NS) Tungs speech,
our cooperation and support will go a long way to strengthen our NS
and HR management system, so that our servicemen and women can
focus their energy and effort in fulfilling their duties and responsibilities.
STORY & PHOTOGRAPHY | CONTRIBUTED BY HRSSC

HRSSCS Core Values

Put People
Together

Take Away
Prejudice

Keep
Multiplying

No Division

Equality

Army News

12

Army News

13

The opening of the exhibition was a bright affair as families came to VivoCity to celebrate 50 years of defence. There were
numerous static and hands-on displays, attractive prizes and even a guided tour on board a Landing Ship Tank (LST). There
was a new experience for everyone. For some of the men manning the booths, it was a new experience interacting with the
public. Defence Minister, Dr Ng Eng Hen opened the exhibition on board the LST RSS Endurance.

SAF

50

@
VIVO

Celebrating 50 years of SAF

STORY | ALASTAIR LOE, ASHWIN LEE, BRANDON LEOW & SARAVANAN MUNUSAMY
PHOTOGRAPHY | KEITA SIN, AMOS POH, JEREMY HONG, LIM HAN CONG & LIM WEI JIAN

The exhibition hosted Singaporeans from

all walks of life, including students, parents,
elderly and even the occasional tourist, all
of whom had a positive experience during
SAF50@Vivo. It is exciting, we hardly get
to see these weapons and vehicles, the
mock-ups are also very interesting. From
the exhibition we learn that defence is to be
worked for. What we see today is what behind
the scenes, the reason for our security, and
it is not to be taken granted for, Ms Jillynn
Wee, mother of 4 children, shared her views
after visiting various booths at VivoCity.
The exhibition rolled on during Valentines
Day as families and lovebirds as well came
to visit the various booths and board the
RSS Endurance to view the equipment and
performances which included a Naval Divers
Boat PT showcase. Local celebrity Noah Yap
was on board to host and entertain the
visitors. He was soon joined by his section
mates from the cast of the Ah Boys To Men
movie series. The actors had a great time
with the crowd and posed to take countless
photos with eager fans. Smiles galore!

To mark the last day of the exhibition and commemorate Total Defence Day,
a Weapons Presentation Ceremony was held on board the RSS Endurance
for recruits of the 9th Battalion Singapore infantry Regiment (9 SIR). This
ceremony, held for the first time on board an LST, is significant as these
recruits were presented with their rifles for the first time. It signifies taking on
responsibility not only their rifles but also for the defence of the country as
National servicemen. The ceremony was held at 6.20pm, the time that the
British surrendered to the Japanese in 1942.
Present at the commemorative event were Second Minister for Defence Mr
Chan Chun Sing, Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Ng Chee Meng,
Chief of Army Major-General Perry Lim, senior SAF officers and pioneers.
After the Weapons presentation Ceremony, the guests present viewed
the ceremonial sunset, a long standing naval tradition on board the RSS
Endurance.
The four days at VivoCity was a learning experience for everyone involved and
many of the visitors were able to have a greater insight into what the SAF is
made of.

SAF50@VIVO

Army News

reader Wilson Ng wrote to Army News to tell us

about his grandfather, ONE OF THE FIRST PIONEER
BATCHES IN OUR ARMY .
This is his story.

The Early

Mr.

Days:

Wee Soon Kong

STORY | ASHWIN LEE

PHOTOGRAPHY | CONTRIBUTED BY WILSON NG

ack in the 1950s, life was tough.

Singapore was under British rule and still reeling after
the shock of the Japanese invasion.
Mr Wee Soon Kong was just another
young man, looking to survive and
eke out a living. At the time, it wasnt
easy to find a stable job in Singapore.
While strolling along Bras Basah Road
one day in 1958, Mr Wee happened to
chance upon a wallpaper advertisement of the Army, and decided to give
it a shot. Within weeks he passed his
IQ Test and was among one of the
first batches to enlist in the 1st Singapore Infantry Regiment (1SIR) as
a Recruit earning a salary of $60 per
month. Money wasnt the only thing
that mattered to him though, I was
happy to be in the Army, I enjoyed the
tough training and felt a true sense of
belonging there, recounts Mr Wee.
However, not everyone agreed. His
father clung on to the mantra back
then that a good boy will never join
the army, and bailed him out with
cash after only 6 months in the army.

Appreciate the food, medicine, weapons and facilities

at your disposal today, as all of you are very lucky.
Always take your training seriously as you never know
what the future holds.

Caught amidst desperate times, Mr Wee took on a job

as a truck driver to support himself. A couple of years
later a British Officer named Dennis who knew Mr Wee,
contacted him. Major Dennis recognised me, and we
discussed a possible return to the army, recalled Mr Wee.
Mr Wee eventually heeded his words and volunteered
to return to the army. This time, he was among one of
the first pioneer batches posted to the 20th Singapore
Artillery Battalion (volunteer Malaysia), Romeo Battery,
based at Beach Road Camp. Mr Wee worked Monday to
Friday on his day job and reported for training every
weekend. I felt a certain sense of relief to be back in the
force. Fortunately most of my basic soldiering skills were
still fresh in my head, said Mr Wee. He would also join
his battalion for annual live-firing exercises in Gunung
Hassan, Malacca, for up to 3 weeks. He remembers fondly
how different training was back then compared to now,
The training area never had clean water, so we had to
bathe in the dirty and muddy river water and cope with
the itchiness afterwards, said Mr Wee with a laugh, We
also brought along anti-rust tablets to decontaminate the
drinking water which the local factory supplied us with
in these big, old-looking metal barrels!

17

Malaysia as part of some pact, and were left with nothing

but those obsolete bolt-action rifles which could not work
properly, recounts Mr Wee.
After independence, Mr Wee lost his day job as a driver
and thus stayed on in the army for more than 10 years. He
trained new recruits, which included gangsters recruited
off the streets and volunteers, through their 3-week BMT
at what was then Kallang Airport, before the National
Service Act was established in 1967. Following that, he
moved on to be a Transport Supervisor in the Transport
Unit until he left the force for personal reasons.
Today, Mr Wee has left the life of a soldier behind him
and resides comfortably in a Marsiling flat with his wife.
The remaining few friends that stayed behind with Mr
Wee to defend Singapore have moved on, leaving him as
one of the remaining few who have seen and shared the
birth of the Singapore Army. As an army, it is important
that we remember the men like Mr Wee, who came
before us and gave everything to ensure a brighter future
for this nation.

1965 was a significant year. Singapore was on the

verge of achieving independence from Malaysia. Some
time that year, Mr Wee was on an exercise in Malacca
when news broke out abruptly. The whole battalion was
given 24 hours to return to Singapore. We did not want
to get caught in the middle of a complicated situation, so
we got moving, explained Mr Wee. It wasnt over yet;
about 2 weeks later the battalion was mobilised to defend
key installations on the mainland and islands around it
like Pasir Panjang and Jurong Power Stations, as there
were concerns of some possible foreign opposition to
Singapores stance on independence. Fortunately there
were no serious exchanges. But we did have to fire a few
warning shots at approaching enemy boats, spoke Mr
Wee of his time defending the islands.

Mr Wee (forth from left) and his buddies of R Battery taking

a wash in the river at Gunung Hassan back in the day.

After Singapores successful independence, Malaysia

issued an ultimatum to the soldiers: allowing them to
return and live in Malaysia by their own choice; however
in doing so they would have to relinquish all affiliation
with Singapore. Mr Wee said, It was completely up to
the individual, no hard feelings. Most of my comrades
felt that they could live a better life in Malaysia so they
left Singapore for good. Only a handful of us chose to stay
in Singapore. After all I had been through in learning
to fight and defend this country; the decision was
straightforward for me. The armed forces were now left
with less than half the number of soldiers it had before
independence, and crates of weapons were leaving
too. We had to return our fully automatic weapons to

(standing, second from right) Patrolling the mainland

and islands around Singapore.

THE C

L L A P S E OF

HOTEL NEW WORLD:

STORY | JASON CHUA
PHOTOGRAPHY | CONTRIBUTED BY CENTRE FOR HERITAGE SERVICES

remembering bravery in service

On 15 March 1986, at 1126 hours, the six-storey Lian Yak Building, better
known to most as the Hotel New World, collapsed upon itself, disintegrating
within a minute. The tragedy had come to put Singapores military, civil
defence, police and medical resources to the test.

escue operatives from the SAF sprang

into action, mobilizing numerous units
to aid in any method possible. 30 SCE, 41
SAR and a medical team were among the
very first to arrive on the scene. Thanks to
the lightning-fast response of the military
personnel, a Command Post was set up
within an hour after the disaster. The quick
establishment of the Command Post led to
greater efficiency and effectiveness of the
units present at the site. Engineers from civilian organizations such as SMRT lent their
strength and expertise to the rescue efforts
as well.

The collapse of such a building is unprecedented,

- then Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew.

BG (Dr) Lim Meng Kin, then an LTC, who was Chief Medical Officer of the SAF Medical Services at
the time, was one of the most prominent heroes during the week-long rescue operation. Dr. Lim
was placed in command of the medical rescue operation, a duty which he fulfilled to his greatest
abilities.

LTC (Dr) Lim Meng Kin

During the Operation

Army News

19

Lian Yak Building

Hotel New World
Expatriate MRT construction specialists who hailed from
Britain, Ireland and even Japan lent their expertise by
tunnelling into the volatile wreckage, risking their lives
to reach any survivors they could find. Once one of them
emerged, exhausted, another would dive right in to take his
place. Their actions left a deep impression on Dr. Lim, who
called them the bravest men I have ever met.

Following the efforts of the experts, Dr. Lim along with other
SAF Medics entered the chaos themselves. Despite knowing
a slight misstep would cause a cave-in, these men crawled
on all fours, into the darkness. They barely had any space to
manoeuvre in the tunnels. Their goal was to extricate any
survivors they found, or if that wasnt an option, they would
provide them with immediate medical attention such as doses
of morphine or intravenous drips. The last survivor was finally
rescued after being buried for more than 80 hours.
At the end of the 4-day rescue operation, 17 survivors had
been pulled out from the wreckage and the death toll stood at
33 people. More than 500 personnel from the SAF, the SCDF,
the Fire Service (now merged with SCDF) and foreign experts
had been involved in the rescue. The operation had shown the
mettle of Singapores military and paramilitary organisations.
Seeing reservists, office workers and even students lending
their aid in any method possible had also seeded the importance of Total Defence into every Singaporean.

Let us always remember the courage and tenacity of the

servicemen who were on site 29 years ago. It is these qualities
that should persevere within every serviceman, then and now,
to ensure that the Singapore Army is ready, decisive and
respected.

The list of SAF units then involved in the

rescue operation:
1. 41 SAR
2. 46 SAR
3. 3 Guards
4. GSMB
5. SOCE
6. 30 SCE
7. 35 SCE
8. G3 MINDEF

9. G4 MINDEF
10. HQ MS
11. HQ TPT
12. 1 TPT Bn
13. 1 Signals Bn
14. HQ RSAF
15. 120 Sqn
16. GEB

Why did the building collapse?

An investigation conducted after the
collapse revealed a fatal error in the structural
engineers calculation of the buildings
structural load. He had calculated the
buildings live load (weight of potential
furnitures, fixtures and inhabitants) but the
buildings dead load (weight of the building
itself ) was completely omitted from the
calculation.
This meant that the building was unable
to even support its own weight upon
completion.
What of it now?
On 28 March 1991, five years after the
collapse of Hotel New World, construction
work commenced on the site for a new hotel.
The Fortuna Hotel opened in 1994, boasting
seven-storeys and 85 rooms and is still there
to this date.

Army News

20

OUR past:

STORY | BRANDON LEOW

Peace cannot be taken for granted, and

while we safely carry out our day to day
tasks, there are groups of soldiers who
are constantly ever-ready to protect our
nation.

Pulau Senang

n Singapore, every location has a past history and a story to be told. Besides the more famous locales, there
are also other areas that many do not know about; one of these is the island of Pulau Senang. Now used as a
live-firing area by the RSAF, it is difficult to imagine the islands storied past.
The island of Pulau Senang is located 24 kilometres south of Singapore. This quiet area became the subject of a
penal experiment in the 1960s. Spearheaded by Police Officer Daniel Stanley Dutton, whose belief that through
work, even the most hardened criminal could be brought back to the right side of the law. All our evils can be
conquered by hard work: we can sweat the evil out of us. This was a statement once made by Dutton to Alex
Josey. He attempted to prove this by setting up a colony on the island, which was built and maintained by prisoners who had a good behaviour record in prison before being sent to the island.

he Civil Service Colleges Governance and Leadership

Programme (GLP) is a milestone programme designed
for newly-appointed Director-level officers in the
various Ministries and Statutory Boards, and aims to equip
them with a holistic perspective of public sector governance,
public sector leadership and management skills. As part
of the GLP, SAFTI MI and 2nd People Defence Force
(2PDF) hosted the 32 participants from the 19th GLPs visit
to the 2PDF/Island Defence Task Force (IDTF) at Clementi
Camp on 27 January.

K-9 dogs and toughness of the anti-riot suit were displayed

at the MP Command booth. Capabilities of MP Command,
such as how they deal with riots in military installations, and
the control and restraint of detainees in Detention Barracks
were presented.

21

Revisiting

Showcasing
the SAF

Participants were introduced to the operations and

capabilities of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).
The IDTF, Military Police Command (MP Command),
Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Explosives Defence
Group (CBRE) and Medical Response Force (MRF) prepared
booths to demonstrate their capabilities. Vehicles such
as the Forward Command Post from IDTF and Medical
Decontamination and Treatment Vehicle from MRF
were set-up.

Army News

Dutton began the experiment with 50 prisoners in June 1960; this number would grow to more than 300
before the failure of the experiment. In the beginning, things were going well, prisoners knew that heading to
the island was the only way that they had any chance of heading back to normal society and put on their best
behaviour in their efforts to be sent there. Dutton recommended those prisoners he felt were reformed to the
Work Brigade, from there, the inmate would sent back to normal society.

SSG Vincent Ang Jie Feng, from 39 Singapore Combat

Engineers, shared his knowledge of CBRE to the participants.
He shared, Through the showcase today, we managed to show
the participants that the SAF is ever-ready for emergencies.
Having such sessions also improves our networking so that
we are able to tap on each others intelligence when needed.
The visit concluded with a dialogue session between the
participants and Chief of Army, MG Perry Lim. Mr Lim
Hong Huai, a Director-General from the Ministry of Foreign
Affairs shared his thoughts with us. Todays session was
useful in reinforcing the concept of SAF and showing how
the key installations in Singapore are being protected. The
dialogue with MG Perry Lim allowed us to be frank and
raise matters to him that are not usually spoken off. He was
very forthcoming with us and this helped us have a better
understanding about SAF.

STORY | KEITA SIN

PHOTOGRAPHY | JEREMY HONG & LIM HAN CONG

Conditions on the island were some of the best in the world for a prison; inmates had access to cinema, educational facilities and recreational facilities among other things. The failure of the experiment was due to Duttons
underestimation of the power of secret society and that he did not take into account the inability of all men
to see as he did. Despite the good conditions of the island, Dutton required the inmates to work hard. Many of
these men had joined the gangs because they did not want to work hard. Dutton also believed there was no
way that the inmates would ever turn on him. This over confidence would be his undoing.
Unfortunately, a riot took place on 12 July 1963. Before that, informers had been telling Dutton that the men
were conspiring against him, he dismissed these as fallacies. However, he reported these rumours to Major
Peter L. James, then Director of Singapore prisons. Despite assurances from James that reinforcements would
be sent, Dutton insisted he had control of the situation. After lunch time, the prisoners began their riot, resulting in the deaths of Dutton and three of his assistants as well as the destruction of much of the island. A total of
64 detainees were accused of murder and rioting. The trial, took 5 months, ended with 18 men found guilty of
murder and hanged in Changi Jail on the morning of 29 October 1965. Another 29 men found guilty of rioting,
and the rest were acquitted. Pulau Senang was then declared out of bounds for the next 5 years and was later
used by the Singapore Armed Forces for military exercises.

The motivations behind the riot are up to now still unclear, there was no clear objective. Escape was
impossible due to the Coast Guard and during when police reinforcements landed on the island, many of
the detainees gave themselves up. Behind the inmates were the leaders of the Chinese Secret Societies,
members of which were among the detainees, who may have had their own agenda. The truth may never
be known, only those involved would be sure of it.

Army News

22

Symbols of our Army:

SAF AMMUNITION
COMMAND
The origins of SAF Ammunition

Command (SAFAC) can be traced

to the SAFs Weapon Ammunition
and Optical Base formed in
February 1967. Later that year,
Pasir Laba Ammunition Depot was
officially opened for storage of
ammunition and explosives
to support the SAFs training
needs.
Subsequently, the first SAF-built
ammunition depot, Rifle Range
Road Ammunition Depot, was
completed in December 1970. On
6 March 1971, the SAF Ammunition
Base was officially inaugurated
and MAJ Wong Geok Seam was
appointed as its first Commanding
Officer. As a testament to its
service quality, SAF Ammunition
Base became the first Army unit to
achieve ISO 9002 certification in
July 1994.
In the meantime, as the SAFs
ammunition inventory grew in
types and sophistication, the RSAF
formed Air Force Armament Base
on 1 November 1985 and CPT
William Pereira was appointed as
its first Commanding Officer.
With depots in Tengah Air Base
and Paya Lebar Air Base, Air
Force Armament Base provided
ammunition storage, maintenance
and operational support services
to all Air Force units, as well as
storage and maintenance facilities

for Navys precision guided

munitions.
The SAF Ammunition Base
transformed into the SAF
Ammunition Command on 1 April
2004, after Ammunition Branch
from HQ Supply & Transport
came under its fold, with LTC Tan
Nam Seng appointed as its first
commander.
In April 2006, Air Force Armament
Base as well as relevant specialist
officers from Air Logistics
Department and Naval Logistics
Department also came under
SAFAC to realise the SAFs vision of
a one-stop ammunition storage,
operational support and specialist
staff function for all three services
in the SAF.
On 23 May 2006, former Chief of
Defence Force, LG Ng Yat Chung,
officially inaugurated. SAFAC as a
Joint unit and commissioned its
logo. Subsequently, in Apr 2011,
SAFAC was transferred into Combat
Service Support Command
(CSSCOM) to achieve even greater
operational and administrative
synergy for the SAF.
Today, SAFAC is structured with an
ammunition Senior Specialist Staff
Officer HQ and two ammunition
bases, namely General Support
Ammunition Base and Central
Ammunition Base. Together, they

serve, store, maintain, equip and

sustain our Army, Navy and Air
Force with ammunition ranging
from small arms bullets to guided
missiles.
SAFAC also operates the
Underground Ammunition Facility,
the only facility in the world with
ISO container handling capability
for ammunition. Ammunition
engineers from SAFAC participate
routinely in overseas live-firing
exercises and lead large-scale
fireworks displays at national
events, such as Southeast Asian
Games 2015 and National Day
Parade.
A world-class ammunition
organisation, recognised by
advanced militaries around the
world as a leading benchmark,
SAFAC continues to strive towards
being a pillar of confidence for
the SAF as the Heart of the SAFs
Firepower.

Army News

23

Colours

The colours symbolise the

respective services, conveying the
synergy and inter-dependency
among the Army, Air Force and
Navy. The cumulating point of the
crest represents the convergence
of ideologies and goals, creating a
common identity emphasising the
integrated nature of our command.

Flame Insignia

This symbolises our desire to be

the epitome of reliability, efficiency
and professionalism in the SAF.
It also signifies our continuance
strive towards organisational
excellence, specifically our
unwavering learning spirit.

Flames

This symbolises our dynamic

nature and ability to adapt in the
face of challenges.

Ring

This symbolises the cutting-edge

technology and state-of-the-art
ammunition which we deliver to
our war-fighters.

Did you know?

MG (NS) Lim Neo Chian served as
Commanding Officer of the SAF
Ammunition Base in 1979 and
was later appointed as the Chief of
Army from 1992 to 1995.

Logos of the SAF Ammunition Base (left) and the Air Force Armament Base (right)

Army News

24

STORY | CONTRIBUTED BY HQ ARMOUR

PHOTOGRAPHY | CONTRIBUTED BY 3WO LIM YUAN SZE

ROAD TO
EXCELLENCE

Army News

25

A NEW
WAVE OF
EXPERTISE
&
INNOVATION

On 28 November, Minister of State for Defence Dr Mohamad

Maliki Bin Osman officiated at the 8th Singapore Armed Forces
(SAF) Senior Military Experts Appointment Ceremony at SAFTI
Military Institute, where 50 servicemen and servicewomen were
appointed as senior military experts.

STORY | SARAVANAN S/O MUNUSAMY

PHOTOGRAPHY | ASHWIN LEE

During his speech, Dr Maliki highlighted the increased importance

for the military experts deep specialisation in niche areas due to
expanding threats to the nations security. Addressing the graduates,
he said, Your specialised knowledge and deep expertise in areas such
as engineering, intelligence and cyber are more valuable than before
in todays security environment, as we see increasingly transnational
and complex challenges such as natural disasters, cyber attacks and
terrorism. In addition, Dr Maliki urged the graduates to continue
to learn and innovate. He said, We will look to you, as Military
Experts, for the innovative solutions that will provide the SAF with
the leading edge and enable us to pre-empt tomorrows challenges so
the SAF can stay ahead of the curve.

3WO Lim Yuan Sze, Derrick (above, left) from Institute of

Armour started his army career in 2002 when he enlisted into
Armour, 40 SAR. After serving National Service for a year, he
decided to sign on as a regular.
Upon completing his Basic Section Leader Course in SISPEC,
3WO Lim Yuan Sze attended the Tank Commander Course
where he obtained both the Golden Bayonet and Best Knowledge
Award. This course set his foundation in the army and after
which, he began his first tour as a CUB Commander followed by
platoon sergeant at 46 SAR.
He said, I was fortunate to be able to work under many
outstanding WOspecs and officers. From them, I learnt many
valuable skills and knowledge. At 46 SAR, the main highlight
of his tour was the opportunity to be selected as one of the
core group to receive training on Leopard tanks in Germany.
The experience was an eye-opener and it is something that he still
holds on to very dearly.
With the exposure in Germany, 3WO Lim Yuan Sze helped in
the setting up a new Armour Battalion- 48 SAR. His appointment
as Operations Sergeant required him to set the foundation
in terms of the training needs which included monitoring
of results and booking of training resources. My tour as an
Operations Sergeant provided me with the opportunity to look
at things more strategically as I have a better understanding
of the operations in the unit. It was also this exposure as an
Operations Sergeant that enabled him to clinch the Best Student
Award when he attended the Armour Company Sergeant Major
Course (ACSM). After 2 years as Operations Sergeant, he
assumed command as a Company Sergeant Major (CSM). The
highlights of his tour as a CSM include the German Master

Gunner Course, Warfighter Course (WFC) and Joint Foundation

Leadership Course (JFLC).
3WO Lim Yuan Sze then took on the role of a Platoon
Commander (PC) in Armour Training Institute (ATI). He was
then selected to attend the 20 week Joint Leadership Course (8
weeks of Warrant Officer Phase and 12 weeks of Combined
Phase) where he attained the Distinguished Graduate Award.
The phases included modules on War-fighting skills, Leadership
and Understanding Context. The lectures and tutorials
were excellent learning platforms and they taught me a lot of
important skills as I progressed with the SAF. Now, I am better
equipped with vital skills and knowledge, but I also learnt to be a
more effective leader in my area of service.
Last year, 3WO Lim Yuan Sze was given the opportunity
to be part of the organising committee for the Armour 45th
Anniversary Parade. I was the Assistant Organising Secretariat
and had the privilege to work alongside outstanding officers and
WOspecs as they conceptualised and planned one of the most
significant events in Armour.
3WO Lim Yuan Sze will be pursuing his diploma in Business
Management at Nanyang Polytechnic, under the sponsorship
of the CLASS Award. I am looking forward to further
upgrading myself as I am confident that with the knowledge
and experience gained, I would be able to contribute further to
the organisation.

FROM LEFT:

Four-army personnel involved were ME4 Lie Hong Qing, ME4

Chew Chuan Hao, ME4 Loh Quek Khim and ME4 Lim Boon Hua.
It was definitely a special evening for them as shared by ME4 Lie
Hong Qing, I am very proud to be here today together with my
fellow course mates. He added, This ceremony is a recognition
of our efforts over the past year and I am glad to celebrate it with
my loved ones. It was an even more special evening for ME4 Chew
Chuan Hao who received the Sword of Merit from Dr Maliki. ME4
Chew shared his thoughts, I am very happy that I received the
award, especially receiving it in front of my family. I will like to thank
my course mates for this recognition and also my family for their
support throughout the course.

ME4 LIE HONG QING

ME4 CHEW CHUAN HAO The appointment ceremony marked the completion of the Military
ME4 LIM BOON HUA
Domain Experts Course, which trains military experts to take on
ME4 LOH QUEK KHIM
roles in the SAF where in-depth expertise is required, in areas such
as engineering, intelligence and military medicine. The training
conducted during the course develops and hones the military experts
leadership competency, military domain knowledge and specialised
skills. The newly appointed military experts will move on to assume
command or staff appointments in their professional areas.

Also present at the ceremony were Chief of Defence Force

Lieutenant-General (LG) Ng Chee Meng, senior SAF officers as well
as families and friends of the graduates.

Army News

26

Army News

27

UNDERSTANDING LOWER
BACK PAIN

STRETCHES

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY | JOSEPH LIM, PHYSIOTHERAPIST, SPAC/HQ AMS

Our quarterly feature to keep yourself healthy and fighting fit! In this issue, tips on how to ensure your back is
well-rested and pain-free!
Lower back pain (LBP) can be due to overuse of the back
muscles or sudden awkward movements, that result in back
muscle strains or back ligaments sprain. Injury to the back
leads to pain, swelling and inflammation around the area.
To prevent unnecessary movements of the spine, back muscles
react by contracting or going into spasm. Prolonged muscle
spasm can cause the back to be weaker and stiffer. In addition,
overall fitness may also decline because of fear of activity.

KNEE TO CHEST

HEEL SIT

Bring both knees to chest. Gently pull legs towards chest. Hold for 30 secs.
Repeat 3 times.

Kneel and sit back onto heels. Reach forward. Hold for 30 secs.
Repeat 3 times.

KNEE ROLLING & TRUNK ROTATION

PRONE PUSH UP

With feet on the floor, slowly roll knees to one side. Increase the stretch by twisting
upper body to the opposite side. Hold for 30 secs. Repeat 3 times.

Lift upper body off the floor. Keeping arms straight. Keep pelvis flat and look
straight ahead. Hold for 20 secs. Repeat 3 times.

STRENGTHENING - ALTERNATE ARM & LEG RAISE

Lift up left arm and right leg. Hold for 10 secs. Now lift up right arm and
left leg. Hold for 10 secs. Repeat 5 times. Do 3 sets.

What Causes Back Pain

Direct impact (e.g. a fall)

Improper lifting techniques
Poor posture
Physical inactivity
Reduced back flexibility
Weak abdominal and back muscles
Repetitive stress/loading on the back
Overweight

STRENGTHENING - FOREARM PLANKS

Lift body away from the floor. Keep body straight and flat. Hold for 30 secs.
Repeat 5 times. Do 3 sets.

CAT-CAMEL
STRENGTHENING -ABDOMINAL CURLS

STRENGTHENING -BRIDGING (DOUBLE LEG)

Slowly lift up trunk till shoulder blades are off the floor. Keep elbows open and neck
in neutral position. Repeat 10 times. Do 3 sets.

Lie on your back with knees bent. Lift buttocks off the floor. Maintain a straight
body. Hold for 10 secs. Repeat 10 times. Do 3 sets.

In 4-point position, ensure shoulders are in line above wrists and hips in line above the knees. Keep elbows straight. Look up and create a curve in the back. Hold for 10 secs.
Look between the thighs and curve back up, contracting abdominal muscles. Hold for 10 secs. Repeat 3 times.

How Do I Prevent Back Pain

LIFTING

STANDING OR WALKING

Bend knees and not the back, keep the weight close to the body and back upright.

When standing for long periods, rest one foot on a slight elevation to decrease
muscle tension. Walk with good posture, keeping chin and stomach tucked in.

SITTING
Sit in a chair with the thighs fully supported on the seat and both feet flat on
the floor. Back should be flushed/well rested against the back of the chair
for optimal support.

SLEEPING
When standing for long periods, rest one foot on a slight elevation to decrease
muscle tension. Walk with good posture, keeping chin and stomach tucked in.

EXERCISE
Exercise regularly to stay trim and fit. A healthy weight will cut down unnecessary strain on the back. Back strengthening exercises will also help to keep the back strong
and healthy.

HAMSTRING STRETCH

PIRIFORMIS STRETCH

Lift your right leg to about 90 degrees. Interlock your fingers behind your right
thigh. Attempt to straighten your lower leg. Hold for 30 secs. Repeat for the left leg.
Repeat 3 times.

Bend your left knee on the floor, cross your right leg on the left knee. Interlock your
fingers behind your left thigh. Gently bring your left knee towards your chest. You
should feel a stretch on your right gluteal region. Hold for 30 secs. Repeat for the
left side.
Repeat 3 times.

SINGAPORE IS BUILT ON
THE FOUNDATION OF...

In Your

Words

250115
Tough men
hearts!

with

big

Kok Weng Pang - I suppose they

(Commandos) are more willing to
clean up now for the needy than
when they were students. NS is
developing characters of love and
respect for the less fortunate.
-------------------------------------------------

270115
Strengthening Ties Joint Adventure Training

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The Lepooprea ArmyStyle!
Singa
d on 070215)

...PIXELS, GUARDING
THE BUILDING BLOCKS
OF OUR CITIES.

(Poste

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P
SINGA
FACEBOOK

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y
ursingaporearm

facebook.com/o

Whats Hot!
g!
Whats Trendin !
WHaTs Viral

THE DOWNTOWN EXPRESS

GREENS, CREATING A SAFE

SANCTURY FOR DEVELOPMENT.

TEAM INSERTED!

Congratulations
graduating recruits!to
#OurSgArmy #POPLoh
(Posted on 100115)
@oursingaporearmy

COMIC BY MONOCOQUE SERVICE DESIGN

Pao Pai Tse - Truly deserving of

the award. Proud to have you in
the team!
-------------------------------------------------

030215
Its Dangerous, we are
trained for it.
Han Jinyuan Larry - When in doubt
,you should always ask your trainers
, theres nothing to be embarrassed
about because when the time
comes , you be the one to go in .
Been there , done that .
-------------------------------------------------

Yeong Chun Wei - Yes conscription

will not guarantee victory but we
shouldnt go down without a fight.

Never Again!

AND EARTH, PROVIDING THE

SUPPORT FOR THE YEARS TO COME.

010215
SAF Specialist Receives
Honour Graduate Award
in US Course

080215
Never Again!
On this day in 1942,
Japanese troops crossed
into Singapore from
Johor, landing on
Sarimbun Beach.

anese troops crossed

On this day in 1942, Jap
Johor, landing on
into Singapore from
Sarimbun beach.
(Posted on 080215)

Arsyad Brony - Looks Great! Cant

wait to serve my country!
-------------------------------------------------

all