5 October, 1992
This was the day I stepped into Sungei Gedong Camp, the day when I joined the Armour Brigade of the Singapore Forces. Was it fate or the Will of God that I am posted to this camp? Ever since I was a 17 year-old, armour legends like Erwin Rommel and George S. Patton, have been my heroes, when my peers were worshipping Checkers, Akina Nakamori and * gasp * Madonna! (Is she that ancient?)
ONCE ARMOUR, ALWAYS ARMOUR
The unforgettable, dreaded slogan that I see when the 3-tonner drove up the road leading to what is know as the Armour Complex after a long trip from 3 BTS (3rd Battlion Training School) at Nee Soon camp. And yes, since then, all the units I posted to – with the exception of my one year stint overseas – are in that camp and in the SAF Armour family. SOA, 38 SCE, and the old ATC camp are places that brings back some memories.
Was it so long ago? I am once again reminded that the days I imagined myself to be immortal, and would never die is passing away.
31 March, 2006
Today, almost 13.5 years later, I received my ‘Certificate of Appreciation’ – or MR letter, as it is known to some in the Armour Training Institute Auditorium. The SAF is officially done with me, as long as there’s no major national crisis – read: WAR – which requires my service again, before I am 40 years old. (The Support Company OC joked about this when he said, “If the SAF calls you up before you are 40, please, it will be an emergency. So please don’t call anyone of us up and ask for a deferment!”)
Today, I officially stepped out of Sungei Gedong Camp for the last time.
13.5 years of my life. Was it so long ago?
13.5 years of my life and in return was just simple letter signed by my NS battalion Commanding Officer.
13.5 years of my lfie. And two SAF medals.
13.5 years of my life. And one $480 – or so they say – SAF Hamilton Khaki Watch, to be collected on May 1st.
Was it worth it? I do not know. But I am glad I have finally discharge what I owe to the nation.(And hey! No more IPPT!)
I certainly hope that this day will be the last I ever see of any SAF camps again, until the day comes for my son – if I ever get married and have one – to serve the nation.
Oh hey, while you guys are at it, check this out . From a friend of mine. 🙂
That’s what they said to me. But I haven’t gotten any certificate!
I’m worried.
They said we don’t have to do IPPT anymore. And I think that’s the only thing alot of us was interested in. 😛
At least, you have gotten your certificate. I haven’t.
Does this mean that you don’t have to do IPPT anymore?
“3 BTS (3rd Battlion Training School) at Nee Soon camp”
What memories. I wish I could see the place again. I wonder if there will be an open house one of these days.
I know the feeling. When I stepped out of my camp at Clementi Ave 6, I knew that it was for the last time. And that every one else has gone. I don’t exactly miss them. However, this has been part of my life for so long that I can’t help feeling something. It is not that I like it. Like yourself, I have mixed feelings.
People often mistake my interest in military affairs for a love for the military, for blood and gore, for violence, and for other silly mistaken impressions. I have no desire for a life in the military. Regimentation. I have no interest in seeing combat either. Heh. My interests are grounded in reality.