HAPPY 44th BIRTHDAY SINGAPORE

The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) commemorated SAF Day at a parade held at the SAFTI Military Institute this evening. Officiated by President S R Nathan, the parade was attended by more than 3000 SAF regulars, Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen) and full-time National Servicemen. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean, Minister for Education and Second Minister for Defence Ng Eng Hen, and Minister of State for Defence Koo Tsai Kee were also present at the parade. Chief of Defence Force, Lieutenant-General Desmond Kuek, led the SAF personnel in reciting the SAF pledge to reaffirm their loyalty to the nation and their commitment to the defence of Singapore. A minute of silence was also observed in remembrance of Singapore's sons and daughters who had lost their lives in the line of duty.

President Nathan presented the State Colours to this year's Best Combat Unit, the 1st Commando Battalion. DPM Teo presented the Best Unit and Best NS Unit awards to 22 SAF units. At the post-parade reception, DPM Teo also presented the SAF NSmen of the Year awards to 12 NSmen.

Over 850 NSmen from 180 companies and their employers also reaffirmed their commitment to the defence of Singapore at the SAF Day combined rededication ceremonies held at four locations around Singapore earlier today. DPM Teo officiated at the first rededication ceremony held at the Singapore Chinese Orchestra Concert Hall. The other three rededication ceremonies were officiated by Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Foreign Affairs Raymond Lim, Minister (Prime Minister's Office) Lim Boon Heng, and Minister for Finance Tharman Shanmugaratnam.