To an NSman, National Day is not just about fanfare. It’s a powerful reminder of why we serve.
It reminds us of the long hours in the field, the weight of a rifle on our shoulders, and the trust placed upon us to protect what our forefathers built. It’s the echo of a commander’s voice in the early morning, the thud of boots on parade grounds, and the unity forged across races, backgrounds, and beliefs – all in service of a shared flag.
On National Day, we remember that our role in defending Singapore doesn’t end with ORD. As citizen soldiers, we carry forward the responsibility of safeguarding peace, not just for ourselves but for our families, our neighbours, and the generations to come.
🤝 A Celebration of Unity and Brotherhood
When we put on our uniforms, there are no distinctions between office worker or technician, CEO or student. We are all Singaporeans first.
That spirit of unity is mirrored in the National Day celebrations. Whether we are attending the SAFRA Bayfront National Day Celebration, watching the National Day Parade from the comfort of our home, or serving our duties, we are part of a bigger story – a nation that thrives because its people stand together.
It’s in the way a crowd joins in the anthem, or how strangers become friends during a community event. That unspoken bond – that we are one people, one nation – is something every NSman knows intimately. We’ve lived it.
Here, four NSmen share their thoughts on what the spirit of National Day truly means to them, what makes them proud to serve in National Service and also their hopes and dreams of our nation as we progress past SG60 and beyond.
“I remember taking part in the SAF50@Vivo, a celebration marking the 50th anniversary of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) at VivoCity where I attended to Minister of Defence Dr. Ng Eng Hen. It was nerve-racking for an NSF to say the least. But now here we are at SG60.
Before Jewel Changi Airport was built, I got to experience first-hand how they cleared the Changi Airbase to become what we now know as the “World’s Best Airport”. A nation so small yet so respected globally, it’s not by chance that we got to where we are today but through sheer hard work and determination.
As a child, National Day was all about the fighter jets and fireworks for me. As a grown man who had gone through National Service, it’s now about Singapore on a global scale – how and what can we do to be better and grow further.
In the last decade, Singapore persevered through hard times such as COVID as a nation, amongst many other challenges, and managed to emerge stronger than before. Leveraging on experience and wisdom – Singapore will reach new heights with a strong identity as One Nation.”
SSG (NS) Tan Sheng Hao Kieroy, 508 SQN, RSAF
“#OurArmyFamily consisting of my role model father (also served as an SAF Officer in the same Infantry Brigade I am in), supportive wife, eager 3-year-old boy, and I are all looking forward to SG60. Singapore has come a very long way since our nation’s founding in 1965 during my father’s pre-NS days, and generations of strength continue through my own son who will likewise serve NS one day. We are strong advocates for Total Defence: while I wear multiple hats like serving as a civilian Doctor of Chiropractic and committed NSman, I would not be able to do it without the support and understanding of my household members over the years. NDP 2025 will not only be a time for my family to soak up the celebrations, but also feel grateful for each other with what we have today.
Singapore’s peace and sovereignty is something our family really appreciates. Having also lived abroad during my chiropractic studies, the famous line from Kit Chan’s NDP song resonated even more: ‘This is home truly, where I know I must be, where my dreams wait for me, where that river always flows.’ My late mother frequently used to quote to me, ‘Home is where the heart is’. Thinking back to how she was a major part of my NSF days with her tireless support for me, especially during the physically and mentally gruelling Officer Cadet School trainee days, kept me focused even when I am fatigued, to always put my best foot forward for her and for our home.
It is our collective hope that as we reflect back on 60 years of Singapore’s independence, we can also look forward to staying united on the road ahead. After all as a marathoner myself, it rings true that ‘life is a marathon, not a sprint’. Majulah Singapura!”
MAJ (NS) Ashley Liew, HQ 5th Singapore Infantry Brigade
“National Day reminds us of why Singapore was built – not just as a country, but as a home. Our founding fathers dreamed of a place where we could live with dignity, hope, and unity. We fought hard to stand on our own, and today, it’s on us to protect what they started. My wish is for Singapore to remain strong, kind, and united – a home that continues to bring light and harmony to the region and the world.
I’m proud to be a Singaporean and to have served in our national defence. With rising global tensions and uncertainty, protecting Singapore has never been more important. It’s up to us to stand guard and safeguard what we call home.
Happy Birthday, Singapore!”
MSG (NS) Benny Yap, TRADOC
“I will never forget the feeling of standing at attention with my fellow company mates at our Stand-Down Parade – after serving together for 13 years – facing and saluting our flag. It brought tears to my eyes, made me realise that the flag represent each and every one of us, no matter where we come from – I wasn’t just serving as an individual; I was serving a part of something far greater than myself. And I knew that, no matter where all of us ventured into next in life – National Day would always remind me of the bond we shared, civilians and soldiers alike – for which I am truly grateful for – made some of the best friendships in army.
Happy 60th birthday Singapore! Here’s to your iconic skyline, vibrant heart, and indomitable spirit – may you continue to be a global beacon of progress – a symbol of impossible made possible. Majulah Singapura!”
1SG (NS) Jotham Tobiah Lim Jin Han, 799 SIR
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