BMT recruits at the Basic Military Training Centre enjoying a special Lunar New Year menu at the cookhouse. (Photo: Dr Ng Eng Hen Facebook) 

For many NSmen, National Service memories are not just about field camps, parades or IPPT, but also the comforting joy of canteen food from the cookhouse. From crispy chicken cutlet rice that drew the longest queues to piping hot maggi goreng that kept hungry soldiers fuelled during late-night suppers, these dishes became more than just meals – they were small but cherished rewards in the midst of tough training days. 

Beyond full plates, it was often the little snacks that left the deepest impression: flaky curry puffs that sold out before lunch, frothy cups of ice Milo, or kaya buns that brought a taste of home. For others, a western food set of chicken chop, fries and baked beans was a simple indulgence that reminded them of civilian life outside the camp gates. These familiar flavours became markers of comfort and camaraderie, shared with platoon mates over laughter and long queues. 

While today’s camp cookhouses and canteens may serve up newer offerings like bubble tea and healthier options, the nostalgia of some of these dishes continues to bind generations of servicemen. Food in National Service wasn’t just about filling stomachs – it was about shared experiences, small freedoms and the taste of memories that still linger long after ORD. 

Here, some NSmen past and present share their most memorable cookhouse and canteen experiences: 

“During my National Service, one of my favourite foods has always been the classic chicken rice from the cookhouse. It might not have been the fanciest meal, but after long days of training, it was something I looked forward to. The warm rice, tender chicken, and that simple garlic-chilli sauce never failed to hit the spot. It was a comforting taste of home in the middle of army life. 

What made it my favourite wasn’t just the flavour, but the memories that came with it. I still remember those early days of enlistment – adjusting to the strict routines, the physical demands, and the homesickness. Sitting down with my platoon mates, laughing and chatting over a plate of chicken rice, made those tough moments a little easier. It was more than just food; it was a reminder that even in hardship, there were small things to enjoy. 

Even during the hardest times – whether it was a long field camp or a gruelling IPPT session – the thought of a simple cookhouse meal kept me going. Every bite felt like a reward, a small piece of normalcy that reminded me of the life waiting outside camp. Looking back, it’s these little meals that made the journey meaningful, turning tough days into memories I now cherish.” 

LCP (NS) Imaan Al Asqalany, Transport Hub West   

“Back in my NS days, my go-to canteen meal was always Nasi Lemak. The aroma of coconut-infused rice, paired with crispy fried chicken wings, spicy sambal with anchovies, and that signature thinly sliced egg made it the perfect comfort food – especially after a tough exercise session. There was something about that plate of Nasi Lemak that always hit the spot, much like the joy of eating fish balls after a swim at the complex. 

What made it even more special was sharing it with my section mates. We’d gather around, reflecting on the day’s training, and that simple dish became more than just food – it was part of the camaraderie and memories we built together. 

While today’s Nasi Lemak comes in all sorts of fancy combinations, nothing quite compares to the humble version from the camp cookhouse. It may not be extravagant, but it holds a place in my heart that no gourmet upgrade ever could.”  

SSG (NS) Terence Eng, 329SCE 

“Hilltop Cafe at the White House within Nee Soon Camp. Nothing else like it, period.  

In my NS days, Hilltop has always been my go to since it’s where my unit, SAF Band, was based at. Be it after a full day’s rehearsal for National Day, or practising for an upcoming concert or parades under the hot Singapore sun, aunty’s fried rice or cai fan were the comfort foods I looked forward to every time. Not to mention uncle’s super ‘gaoooo’ kopi – you’d definitely get a wake up call from that thing if you try it.  

Hilltop Cafe was more than just a little cafe, it was the central meeting point for my friends and I before the start to any day, the end of a long one, the go-to spot for long conversations about life and the future, and laughs that resounded through the walls of the White House.” 

CPL (NS) Nathaniel Lim, SAF Band 

“For most of us who’ve served our two years in NS, the army cookhouse was a daily staple – dependable, free, and always there. But ask around, and you’ll find a surprising number of us who willingly gave up that free meal, choosing instead to spend a few dollars at the camp canteen or mess. 

Why? It probably wasn’t just about taste. Sure, the fried chicken cutlet or nasi lemak from the canteen stall hit differently, but there was something else – something less tangible but deeply felt. 

At the canteen, you weren’t just eating; you were reconnecting, even if briefly, with the outside world. The atmosphere was looser. No sergeants hovering. No eyes constantly watching. Conversations flowed more freely. Laughter was louder. And on the shelves? Snacks like Snickers, sour candy, and chips – small luxuries you’d never find at the cookhouse. 

It was our little haven – a corner of camp where we weren’t soldiers first, but just young men, catching our breath. The camp canteen gave us more than just food.” 

3SG (NS) Sin, 9DSMB 

If you have any NS stories to share or would like to contribute to our monthly NSmen Share articles, please drop an email to our Editor Sean at tsean@safra.sg and we will get back to you.

Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

The post NSmen Share: Favourite Cookhouse And Canteen Experiences During National Service appeared first on eNSMAN.

At 79 years old, Mdm Wong Ah Siew radiates a warmth and vitality that belies the challenges she has faced over the years. Born in 1945, Mdm Wong retired more than fifteen years ago after dedicating much of her life to helping her father run his meat stall.  

Today, she lives independently in Canberra, yet her life is anything but lonely – a testament to her determination, resilience, and the meaningful connections she has built through Blossom Seeds Community (BSL). 

Early Struggles 

Mdm Wong first began noticing the signs of an ailment in her 40s. “I would get nervous easily, and my hands would start to shiver, especially my left hand,” she recalls.  

Alongside these tremors, migraines became a recurring problem. Crowded places and bright sunlight were unbearable, and daily life became increasingly challenging. For a vibrant, independent woman, the combination of physical discomfort and social limitations was daunting.

Some of her toughest moments came when her immune system was weak. She would experience migraines that made her nauseous, feel nervous, and struggle with the uncontrollable shaking of her left hand. Once, she vomited so much and felt so weak that she could not even stand up. Simple outings or social interactions often felt like insurmountable challenges to Mdm Wong too.  

“It was difficult, physically and emotionally,” Mdm Wong shares. “But the care and encouragement from my late mother and my elder sisters kept me going. Even after I moved to Canberra five years ago, my sisters stayed in regular contact, checking in on me and offering support.” 

Starting The Road To Recovery 

It was her doctor’s advice that became the catalyst for a new chapter in her life: exercise. “My doctor told me that physical activity could help,” she says. Initially, this meant taking morning walks and doing simple stretches in the park on her own. For a while, she tolerated her condition, managing the daily symptoms as best as she could. 

Two years ago, her journey took a transformative turn when her neighbour, Mdm Koh Ah Bee, invited her to join Blossom Seeds Community (BSL), a non-profit organisation that supports lonely and needy senior heartlanders and helps them to integrate with the society. “That was the turning point,” Mdm Wong recalls with a smile.  

She began participating in morning exercise sessions at the centre, quickly finding friendship, support, and a renewed sense of purpose. Regular physical activity, combined with the social engagement she found at BSL, helped her feel more relaxed, less anxious, and energised. Her migraines improved, she needed less medication, and even the tremors in her left hand became significantly better. 

Embracing An Active Lifestyle 

For Mdm Wong, adopting an active lifestyle was both a necessity and a joy. “Seeing the improvements in my health and feeling the love and support from friends motivated me to keep going,” she says.  

Nowadays, her weekly routine is structured yet fulfilling: daily morning walks in the park, a simple breakfast at home, and then off to BSL for morning exercise sessions. From Monday to Friday, she attends a variety of exercises, workshops, and even volunteer activities. Saturdays are spent joining RN & BSL collaboration activities or meeting her sisters for outings, while Sundays include housework and rest. 

These activities are more than just routines – they provide Mdm Wong with purpose. “When I wake up each morning, I feel happy knowing I will see friends, keep my mind sharp, and stay physically strong. These activities make me feel alive, confident, and connected.” 

Giving Back Through Volunteering 

Mdm Wong’s journey at BSL has also been about giving back. She volunteers every Thursday, helping with blood pressure checks for other seniors in the morning and washing dishes in the afternoon.  

“Blossom Seeds has given me so much care, and I wanted to contribute in return,” she explains. Volunteering not only allows her to support others but also gives her the opportunity to learn new skills and gain a sense of accomplishment. “It makes me happy to know I can still make a difference,” she adds. 

Her involvement extends beyond the centre. Recognising the value of community and shared experiences, Mdm Wong often reaches out to other seniors, particularly those who may be lonely or facing health challenges. Through these connections, she hopes to inspire others to engage in activities that promote social, mental, and physical well-being. 

Support Systems & Community Connections 

Having moved to Canberra alone five years ago, Mdm Wong knows the impact of social isolation firsthand. Yet, her life has been transformed through her involvement with BSL over the past two years.  

The friendships she has formed and the activities she participates in have become essential pillars of her well-being. She especially enjoys the Happy123 programme, which features games, songs, and lively chair Zumba sessions, as well as festive celebrations and outings. “These activities keep me happy, help me worry less, and give me a reason to get up every morning,” she says. 

By sharing her story during outreach events, she encourages seniors struggling with health issues or loneliness to participate in activities at BSL or nearby Active Ageing Centre (AAC) satellite sites. This peer support, she believes, is invaluable for both emotional and physical health. 

Reflection & Perspective 

Reflecting on her journey, Mdm Wong emphasises the broader role of organisations like Blossom Seeds. “They provide befriending services to seniors who live alone or are socially isolated and help them integrate into the community through activities and celebrations. It gives seniors a sense of purpose and belonging.” 

She also praises initiatives like the SAFRA Swim For Hope charity event. “These efforts raise awareness of social isolation among the elderly and help support families and seniors in need, whether due to chronic health conditions, mobility limitations, or cognitive challenges.” 

Living with her ailment has profoundly shaped Mdm Wong’s perspective on life. “It has taught me to treasure the time I spend with family and friends,” she reflects. Today, “living life to the fullest” means staying active, making new friends, and continuing to learn. One of her current passions is calligraphy which has become her newfound hobby; she takes lessons at BSL and even practises it at home when she’s free. 

When asked what advice she would give to others facing similar ailments or loneliness, Mdm Wong encourages them to seek out supportive communities. “Come to Blossom Seeds or your nearest Active Ageing Centre. Attend activities, make friends, and enjoy shared interests. You will feel the care and support, and it will make a real difference in your life.” 

A Life Reclaimed 

Mdm Wong Ah Siew’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and the power of community. From the challenges of living alone and being afflicted with an ailment to the joy of discovering a supportive network and an active lifestyle, she embodies a spirit of hope and perseverance. Her days are now filled with movement, learning, laughter, and purpose. She rises each morning with a sense of anticipation and gratitude, living proof that even in the face of illness, one can reclaim life, health, and happiness. 

Through her journey, Mdm Wong demonstrates that healing is not just about physical recovery – it is also about connection, contribution, and finding joy in everyday moments. She reminds all of us that life, even when marked by challenges, can be vibrant, meaningful, and full of possibilities.

Blossom Seeds is one of the beneficiaries in this year’s SAFRA Swim For Hope event. Introduced in 2011, SAFRA Swim For Hope is an annual charity swim event which provides an opportunity for Operationally Ready National Serviceman and their families to contribute to charitable causes, while promoting fitness and bonding through swimming. This year, all nett event proceeds will go towards the various beneficiary organisations to support families and seniors in need of assistance.  

Visit safras4h.sg to do your part and contribute to a good cause! Here are ways you can contribute: 

1. Donate to support a SAFRA Swim For Hope participant/team. 
2. Make a donation to SAFRA Swim For Hope directly.

The post Living Life to the Fullest: Mdm Wong Ah Siew’s Journey of Renewal appeared first on eNSMAN.

For as long as he can remember, Salwant has been in motion. In his youth, he trekked the high trails of the Himalayas. For decades, he ran a thriving music distribution business, bringing the sounds of East and West to Southeast Asia. Later, he switched gears to real estate, helping families find homes, while supplementing his income with Grab driving. His days were full, his body strong, his spirit restless for the next adventure. 

But in 2021, everything changed. 

It began with a small, harmless-looking bump on his leg. Within weeks, it swelled into something that filled him with dread. 

“I knew something was wrong,” Salwant says softly. “When my doctor told me it was cancer… everything went quiet.” 

There was no time to waste. The tumour was aggressive. Within days, he was wheeled into a marathon surgery that stretched past 12 hours. One team of surgeons removed the tumour, while another painstakingly rebuilt his leg using a flap from his thigh. 

The Darkest Days 

The recovery was brutal. Ten days in the hospital. Weeks in a wheelchair. Pain, weakness, and the slow humiliation of being unable to do even the smallest things on his own. 

“I was always the strong one. And suddenly, I couldn’t even walk to the door.” 

Radiotherapy followed – 30 consecutive days that blurred into one long haze of hospital visits, machines, and exhaustion. Through it all, his family never left his side. His wife, his children – they became his lifeline. 

“They fed me, encouraged me, and reminded me to keep going. I don’t think I would have made it without them,” he says.

Choosing to Move Again 

When he finally traded the wheelchair for a walker, then the walker for a cane, it felt like progress. But the day came when he looked at the cane in his hand and made a decision. 

“I told myself: That’s it. No more crutches. I will walk on my own.” 

Now, his mornings begin at 6 am with deep breathing and yoga. By 8 am, he’s walking his two young grandchildren to school – a small daily ritual that feels like a gift. In the evenings, he walks along East Coast Park, twice a week he goes to the gym, and once a week, he treks nature trails with a friend. 

Healing Body and Spirit 

Earlier this year, a check-up with his doctor led him to the Singapore Cancer Society’s F.I.R.E. (Fitness Intensive Rehabilitation Exercise) programme which has been subsidised for patients like him. The physiotherapists designed a tailored plan to strengthen his leg and improve his balance. 

“They were so warm and encouraging,” he says. “It wasn’t just exercise – it was someone believing I could get stronger.” 

The progress has been more than physical. “I’ve regained the confidence to walk and climb again. Maybe not the toughest mountains, but enough to feel like myself again.” 

Art As A Window To The Soul 

Salwant also found unexpected comfort in art therapy – something he had never tried before. Over monthly sessions in this programme that is subsidised by the Singapore Cancer Society, he and other cancer survivors used colours and shapes to express feelings too deep for words. 

One of his paintings, a bright mountain landscape, is now one of his most treasured items in his home. 

“The mountains have always been my happy place,” he explains. “Painting them brought back that feeling of freedom.” 

In the sessions, participants shared their journeys – stories of fear, resilience, and quiet victories. “It reminded me that I’m not alone. We all carry our own battles, but we can lighten the load together.” 

Why Hope Matters 

When he hears about charity events like SAFRA’s Swim For Hope, an annual charity swim event organised by SAFRA, his face brightens up. 

“Hope is powerful – especially for someone facing cancer. This event isn’t just about raising funds; it’s about telling people who are struggling: you’re not forgotten, and you’re not alone.” 

For many patients, he adds, even small things like transportation to treatment can be a challenge. “That’s where support makes a real difference. It’s not just about survival – it’s about living.”   

Still Moving Forward 

Today, at 75, Salwant is not just surviving. He is moving – towards the gym, along coastal paths, up gentle hills, and into moments of joy with his family and grandchildren. 

“Cancer slowed me down, but it didn’t stop me,” he says. “Every step I take now is a reminder – I’m still here, I’m still me.” 

And with each step, he carries something that can’t be measured in distance: hope. 

Singapore Cancer Society is one of the beneficiaries in this year’s SAFRA Swim For Hope event. Introduced in 2011, SAFRA Swim For Hope is an annual charity swim event which provides an opportunity for Operationally Ready National Serviceman and their families to contribute to charitable causes, while promoting fitness and bonding through swimming. This year, all nett event proceeds will go towards the various beneficiary organisations to support families and seniors in need of assistance.  

Visit safras4h.sg to do your part and contribute to a good cause! Here are ways you can contribute: 

1. Sign up by 1 October and rally family and friends to support you by making a donation. There are different categories and swim distances to choose from. You can choose to participate in the Individual Open category, take part with your child or form a team.
2. Donate to support a SAFRA Swim For Hope participant/team. 
3. Make a donation to SAFRA Swim For Hope directly.

The post Hope in Every Step: Salwant Singh’s Story of Strength And Resilience appeared first on eNSMAN.

On 21 April 2025, as Ivy Yeo crossed the finish line of the Boston Marathon, tears streamed down her face. After nearly eight years of relentless training, countless miles, and six world-renowned races, she clasped the coveted Abbott World Marathon Majors Six Star Medal – a dream that had seemed distant when she first laced up her shoes. 

The Abbott World Marathon Majors is a dream for many of the world’s marathon enthusiasts. The journey to earn its prestigious Six Star Medal involves completing six of the most renowned marathons in the world. 

“It was a great sense of achievement and accomplishment,” Ivy recalls, her voice still tinged with emotion. “I cried when I crossed that line in Boston. All the hard work, all the sacrifice… it was worth it.” 

A Challenge Born from Passion 

Running has always been part of Ivy’s life, but it was the inspiration from friends and fellow runners at SAFRA Running Club (Mount Faber) (SRCMF), where Ivy first ignited her passion for running, that first planted the seed of the Six Star challenge.  

“I admired those who had finished all six marathons,” she says. “One day, while chatting with my SRCMF friends, we decided to ballot for Berlin. To our surprise, all eight of us got in! That was the start of my journey.” 

From that first marathon in Berlin in 2017 to the final finish line in Boston in 2025, Ivy’s journey stretched across eight years, paused only by the global pandemic. Each race brought new lessons, unforgettable moments, and memories she now treasures deeply. 

Triumphs, Tears, and the Roar of the Crowd 

Every marathon told a different story. The Berlin Marathon introduced her to the magic of the Majors. Boston, with its legendary elevation and brutal course, tested her resolve like never before. But it was London in 2024 that remains etched most vividly in her memory. 

“Both my legs cramped at 32km, 35km, and 38km,” Ivy shares. “But the cheering crowd was just amazing. They shouted my name – ‘Go Ivy!’ – and even shot confetti cannons as I passed. It felt like walking the red carpet. Without them, I don’t think I could have finished in 4 hours 25 minutes.” 

And yet, the Boston Marathon will forever hold the most meaning. “It was my last one, the race that gave me my Six Star Medal. The welcome we received at the Lenox Hotel after the race – horns, confetti, cheers – it was like a dream.” 

Training the Body, Strengthening the Mind 

Behind every medal is a mountain of discipline. Ivy trained five days a week, clocking 60 to 70 km, often on the slopes of Sentosa, Upper Peirce Reservoir, and Mount Faber. Strength and conditioning twice a week kept her injury-free, while guidance from her coach, Andy Neo, transformed her approach to training. 

“Coach Andy taught me so many things I didn’t know about running,” Ivy says gratefully. “He showed me how to train smart, not just hard. Thanks to him, I stayed injury-free through all six marathons.” 

Just as important was the mental grit. “I reminded myself to train hard, to never give up. My mantra was simple: ‘When the going gets tough, the tough gets going!’” 

The Power of Community 

Running may seem solitary, but for Ivy, community was everything. SAFRA Running Club (Mount Faber) became her second family, with weekly interval sessions, hill repeats, tempo runs, and long slow distance runs that shaped her marathon readiness. 

“We encourage and motivate each other,” she smiles. “I’ve been with SRCMF since 2007, and it was there that I truly found my passion for running.” 

Beyond training, her friends and companions also made the journey possible. Whether traveling together, booking hotels, or simply cheering her on, Ivy never ran alone. “I will never, ever travel solo,” she laughs. “I’m thankful for every friend who journeyed with me.” 

A Medal Beyond Metal 

At 63 years old, Ivy proves that dreams don’t come with an expiry date. The Six Star Medal – heavy in weight but heavier still in meaning – represents more than just six races. 

“It’s a symbol of perseverance, discipline, and belief,” she reflects. “I’ve learnt that age is just a number. It’s never too late to chase your dreams.” 

Inspiring Advice for Aspiring Runners 

For those dreaming of their own Six Star journey, Ivy offers practical wisdom: 

“Join a good running club, be disciplined in training, and prepare for lots of sweat and tears. It’s also not cheap, so start saving early. But most of all, believe in yourself. Work hard, and the dream will happen.” 

If given the chance to relive one race, she would choose London – for the sheer electricity of the crowd. “It wasn’t just a race… it was a celebration of human spirit, unity, and determination.” 

Looking Ahead 

Though Ivy now carries her Six Star Medal proudly, her running journey is far from over. “I’m training for the seventh star – the Sydney Marathon in 2026,” she says with a smile. 

Her journey has been paved by faith, discipline, and community, but above all, it has been a testament to the human spirit’s boundless capacity for endurance. As she looks ahead to Sydney and beyond, one thing is clear: Ivy is still running, not just for medals, but for the joy of the journey itself. 

Interested to join the SAFRA Running Club to kickstart your own running journey? Find out more about the club and its activities here.  

SAFRA members get to join the SAFRA Running Club at just $21.40 for 2-year membership, while non-SAFRA members pay $33.70 for 2-year membership.  

Not yet a member? Sign up at m.safra or the SAFRA mobile app, or visit our membership sign-up page on the website now! 

The post Six Stars, One Dream appeared first on eNSMAN.

NSmen from 115 C4I Bn undergoing refresher training on weapons technical handling. Photo: MINDEF Facebook

For many, the call-up for In-Camp Training (ICT) can be met with a mix of emotions –anticipation, logistical juggling, and the occasional sigh. Between demanding jobs, family commitments, and the pace of everyday life, setting aside one to two weeks for military training may seem disruptive. Yet, talk to enough NSmen and you’ll quickly realise: not everyone dreads the call-up. In fact, a good number of them genuinely look forward to it – some even circle the dates in their calendar with enthusiasm. 

Why? For some, it’s the rare opportunity to reconnect with old army buddies. For others, it’s the sense of purpose, discipline, or even nostalgia that comes with putting on the uniform again. And for many more, ICT offers something their day-to-day lives can’t always provide: a break from the norm, a dose of camaraderie, and a chance to serve with pride. 

We spoke to several NSmen across different vocations and life stages to find out what keeps them motivated – and why, after all these years, they still welcome ICT as something more than just a duty. 

“I was trained as an Anti-Aircraft Gunner during my full-time National Service and it was a meaningful chapter of my life. Even though I had to go through things I didn’t enjoy at first, like tough physical training, the support from my commanders and trainers helped me grow stronger. I eventually became the Best Gunner in my course and was honoured as the RSAF Outstanding Serviceman of the Year. I’m truly grateful to the dedicated leaders who guided me throughout. 

During my reservist years, I always look forward to meeting my unit mates again. It was a chance to reconnect, share stories, and learn from each other. Training sessions were both fun and meaningful and we worked as a team to complete our mission. Of course, I have noticed a big difference in my fitness level from when I was 18 compared to now at 38, but we still give our best and support one another through every deployment. 

160 Squadron is like a family to me. Every year without fail, we gather to celebrate our anniversary, and those moments remind us of the deep friendships we have built over time. These bonds go beyond words. As we like to say our cheer proudly ending with our motto, ‘Alert Always!’” 

CFC (NS) Jagathishwaran Rajo, 160 Squadron, RSAF

“For us NSmen, the experience begins the moment we receive the call-up notice. Our unit chat groups start buzzing again as we exchange packing lists, updates and check in with one another. Each ICT brings the opportunity to forge new friendships while reconnecting with familiar faces. Donning the uniform again never fails to bring back a flood of memories from our NSF days, from the smell of outfield to the familiar routines we somehow never forget. We still remember how to tie our bootlaces, even after a year later!  

While ICT can be physically demanding, it is deeply rewarding too. What truly gets us through the long days and tough moments is the camaraderie and teamwork together. I still remember how the toughest night shifts were made lighter with comrades cracking jokes over instant noodles at 3 am. Back in camp, having nights-out during ICT is always a bonus that is as eagerly welcomed – some head out for supper, others rush home to run errands or spend time with loved ones, and a few choose to stay in camp chatting, replying to work emails, or just catching some much-needed rest. As we go through each ICT cycle together over the years, we grow closer and more cohesive as a unit. 

Our connections don’t end when the ICT concludes. Many of us meet up regularly for meals, sports, and even overseas trips. ICT has become something of an annual reunion. Over the years, we’ve watched each other grow – from students to working professionals, and for some, into parenthood. In the later ICT cycles, a few even had to buy new uniforms simply because they couldn’t fit into their old ones anymore! 

As another ICT approaches, I genuinely look forward to catching up again to share stories, laughter, and memories. Beyond training, it’s the people and the brotherhood that makes this journey truly meaningful.” 

LTA (NS) Wee Soon Keong, 929 SIR, 2PDF 

“Since the day I ORDed, I’ve had the privilege of serving in one of the Armour NS brigades. I began my journey as an Ops Officer in the Fire Support Coordination Cell (FSCC). My role was to lead a team focused on backend operational planning – ensuring that fire support elements were coordinated effectively during missions. It was a role that demanded foresight, teamwork, and precision. 

Over the years, I’ve always looked forward to ICT. It’s not just about the training. It’s about reconnecting with my team and reigniting the shared sense of purpose behind National Service. Every ICT is a chance to regroup, reinforce our skill sets, and remind ourselves of the bigger mission we serve. There’s something fulfilling about returning to camp and working alongside familiar faces towards a common objective. 

Many of us enlisted as young men. Since then, we’ve each gone through different life journeys – pursuing studies, entering the workforce, building careers. Some have even gotten married and become fathers. ICT becomes a meaningful checkpoint in life. We catch up with each other, exchange stories, and relive the memories from our active days. These moments remind me that beyond the uniform, it’s the people and bonds that make this journey truly special. 

What I enjoy most is the feeling of being a small but important piece in the larger puzzle of national defence. Each time I step into camp, I’m reminded of the responsibility of leadership – to guide, to encourage, and to keep the team mission-ready. That sense of accountability continues to shape how I lead, both in and out of uniform. 

In my civilian life, I lead project teams in the real estate industry. Many of the leadership values I picked up through the SAF – discipline, structure, resilience – have proven incredibly useful in my work. Whether it’s leading a new launch campaign or managing operations, I often draw on my ICT experience to bring out the best in my team. National Service has been a meaningful part of my life, and I’m grateful for the lessons, friendships, and purpose it continues to bring.” 

LTC (NS) Brian Lee, Armour NS Group 1 (ANG1) 

“ICT always feels like stepping into a familiar chapter of life that I wouldn’t normally experience in my day-to-day routine. Putting on the uniform again brings back memories of my full-time service, and it’s always a little surreal to be back in camp after spending most of the year in the civilian world. The early mornings and long days can be demanding, but it’s pretty nostalgic still. 

What I look forward to most during ICT is reconnecting with my platoon mates. No matter how much time has passed, the camaraderie and inside jokes pick up right where they left off. From sharing stories about our lives outside of camp to going through training together, there’s a bond that comes from these shared experiences. It’s a reminder that while we’ve each taken different paths in our careers and personal lives, we still come together as one team.” 

CPL (NS) Tavis Lee, 412SAR

If you have any NS stories to share or would like to contribute to our monthly NSmen Share articles, please drop an email to our Editor Sean at tsean@safra.sg and we will get back to you.

Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

The post NSmen Share: Why I Still Look Forward to ICT appeared first on eNSMAN.

Having spent over 25 years in the accounting sector, Goh Thong has been a long-standing advocate for financial compliance and governance. In addition to helming the Audit and Advisory Division at JTC Corporation, he also serves as the Chairman of SAFRA’s Audit Committee, a team that works behind the scenes to ensure that funds are properly managed for the benefit of SAFRA’s primary stakeholders – its members. 

We speak with Goh Thong to better understand the role of his committee, as well as the importance of transparency in fund management. 

Checks and balances

When approached by SAFRA’s former Chief Financial Controller(CFO), Helen Goh in 2010 to join SAFRA’s Audit Committee as a member, Mr Goh was hesitant. While he thought it was a great opportunity to give back to a community that had given him so much, he was unsure if he could contribute meaningfully. He ultimately decided to take the plunge and since then, he has never looked back. 

“SAFRA is more than an organisation. It’s a community that embodies a shared goal of improving the well-being of our NSmen,” he says. With many years of industrial experience under his belt, he worked alongside his team to make sure SAFRA’s funds are managed with financial prudence and accountability. 

That said, what exactly does the Audit Committee do?

“We provide oversight to ensure there is transparency in our financial and operational dealings, working in tandem with management to uphold internal controls, mitigate risks and optimise resource allocation,” he summarises. 

Whether it is funding major upgrading works or club initiatives, the Audit Committee essentially functions as the financial guard rail that guides SAFRA’s management team through the planning and utilisation of these funds. And Goh Thong wants to reassure that auditing is not the same as “cost-cutting”. “In reality, we are here to safeguard the various controls designed and implemented by the management team so that established policies and governance are properly complied with, and that processes are streamlined to improve efficiency,” he explains, “our role goes beyond cost-cutting.” 

Now, as the committee’s chairman, Mr Goh intends to continue the honest and heartfelt dialogue that his and SAFRA’s management team have fostered over the years. “Together, I believe we can enhance financial governance within SAFRA while contributing to discourse on risk and control matters,” he shares. There is certainly a lot on his plate – reviewing auditing findings, preventing recurrence, overseeing the committee’s agenda as well as being the voice of prudence in SAFRA’s day-to-day transactions. 

It’s a team effort!

Thankfully, he is not alone. With an entire team of passionate volunteers like himself, Goh Thong can always rely on the insights and opinions of his peers, especially when the solution is far from being straightforward. “In fact, the decision-making process can be really complex. There is the analysis of data, and consultations with various stakeholders in addition to discussions on the implications of any proposed changes,” he elaborates, acknowledging the “professional expertise of my fellow Audit Committee members” that he has come to leverage on. 

Many may not know that volunteers in the SAFRA committee are actually appointed to their roles. They are evaluated on their professional expertise and personal alignment to SAFRA’s vision. “We value diversity of views within the Audit Committee, so we have professionals from legal, HR, IT and so many others,” he shares. 

Not just all about numbers

Ironically, while Goh Thong was pursuing his Bachelor of Accountancy at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), his weakest subjects were his accounting and auditing modules. That however, did not deter his interest in the industry. Instead, it only pushed him to deepen his comprehension of these subjects. “I believe that having a keen numerical and inquisitive mind are just as important as technical expertise in the auditing field,” he reflects. 

In fact, if you think about it, National Service has primed Goh Thong for his profession. Not only has it instilled a sense of adaptability in him, but it has also shown him what one can accomplish if he is simply forward-looking. “I refer to these qualities as personal guidelines during moments when leadership and quick decision-making is critical,” he shares. 

Goh Thong’s passion and advocacy for National Servicemen has proven to be unwavering, and we wish him all the best in his mission to continue SAFRA’s legacy of transparency and accountability.

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