SINGAPORE - National service is important, especially as the security landscape becomes more complex, said President Halimah Yacob.
Madam Halimah told the officer commissioning parade at the SAFTI Military Institute on Saturday (Dec 15): "We have only ourselves to depend upon in the defence of our home, which is why your service to the nation is important.
She also presented the sword of honour to eight recipients, including Second Lieutenant Audrey Tey Ee Teng, 19.
2LT Tey said: "The main reason why I signed on was because I want to contribute back to the country. I see meaning in the work the Navy does. Singapore is a maritime nation. Our survival is linked to the sea. I see real meaning in defending our waters."
The ceremony, which was also attended by Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen, was all the sweeter because of the training the officers had undergone.
Madam Halimah told the officer commissioning parade at the SAFTI Military Institute on Saturday (Dec 15): "We have only ourselves to depend upon in the defence of our home, which is why your service to the nation is important.
She also presented the sword of honour to eight recipients, including Second Lieutenant Audrey Tey Ee Teng, 19.
2LT Tey said: "The main reason why I signed on was because I want to contribute back to the country. I see meaning in the work the Navy does. Singapore is a maritime nation. Our survival is linked to the sea. I see real meaning in defending our waters."
The ceremony, which was also attended by Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen, was all the sweeter because of the training the officers had undergone.