The evolutionary tale of a humble magazine that has entertained NSmen for over forty years.
Issue Feb 1974
This inaugural issue sees the SAFRA news tabloid transformed into a full-fledged newsletter with its new design and format. Published by the SAF Reservists’ Association, stories include the 240-strong SAF contingent at the National Day Parade, and the opening of the Singapore Armed Forces Enterprises (SAFE) supermarket by Dr Goh Keng Swee, then Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, on 20 Dec 1973.
Issue Oct 1976
Renamed The Reservist in a more aesthetically pleasing format, with colour covers at the front and back, this marks a big step up from the publication’s humble pamphlet origins with a circulation of only 1,000 readers. The revamp comes about as SAFRA wanted to cater to a growing pool of reservists compared with active servicemen, highlighting the shifting role of reservists in the SAF.
Issue Feb 1977
With a circulation of 50,000, The Reservist is now mailed to all SAFRA members free of charge. On this issue’s cover, a large crowd is featured arriving at the SAFRA Trade Fair and Carnival. Some stories featured include the addition of new amusement machines at SAFRA amenities and a new suggestion box to welcome comments and opinions from members.
Issue Jan/Feb 1994
Rebranded NSMan with the tagline “a lifestyle magazine for operationally ready National Servicemen”, it is updated with a vibrant new look. Covering a diverse range of topics ranging from features to lifestyle articles, highlights in this issue include the renaming of the SAFRA National Service Association to SAFRA, and a change of name from “reservist” to “operationally ready National Servicemen” or NSmen for short.
Issue Jan/Feb 2011
NSMan dives into the year with another remake. This issue is draped in bold red and carries a fresh tagline: “The lifestyle magazine for SAFRA members.” Topics range from gift ideas for Lunar New Year and Valentine’s Day, tips on dating, as well as navigating the upcoming Singapore Biathlon 2011, which is held in East Coast Park, among others.
Issue Mar/Apr 2019
In this most recent revamp, the magazine forges on with its tradition of connecting and bonding with NSmen with a clean and sleek look to the tagline “build bonds, create memories”. Bearing a unique theme every bimonthly, this particular “green” issue is dedicated to sustainability. Besides lifestyle stories, the issue also features the Insider section showcasing the latest activities and developments in SAFRA.
Apr 2020
e-NSMan finally goes live on 28 Apr. A dynamic, multi-display functional web magazine catering to the changing needs of the modern individual, it features exclusive eNSman articles, video plug-ins and interviews, as well as updated promotions. With its easy-to-navigate lifestyle sections, the magazine allows eNSman subscribers to have an enjoyable read regardless of their location and screen size.
Subscribers to the eNSman newsletter will also receive exclusive promotions and giveaways! Stay tuned for more exciting deals coming to eNSman newsletter subscribers.
