Forget-me-not6 SIR's role is to protect designated military and key civilian installations as part of the Army's homeland security efforts.
Hence, the soldiers are trained in homeland security measures and are equipped with skills to provide vigilant around-the-clock watch.
What are some interesting skills that 6 SIR soldiers learn in their eight months of training?
MAJ Wong revealed that his soldiers are well-trained in rules of engagement, so they know how to approach different situations appropriately.
Another interesting skill is 'keep in memory' abilities.
MAJ Wong explained: "Through computer-aided programmes and role play, we help train the soldiers' cognitive and psycho-motor skills."
"Essentially, we want to strengthen their memories."
" The soldiers are trained to notice 'out of place' things and remember important details like vehicle models, license plates, height of the suspect, his clothing...We want them to report the details accurately so we can follow up quickly," said MAJ Wong.
While most suspicious characters turn out to be innocent but misinformed persons, MAJ Wong stressed that the action taken by PTE Soh was the right thing to do.
He said: "In security, we have to take every incident that is 'out of place', very seriously, because you never know where or who the real enemy is."
"And unlike conventional operations where soldiers can normally refer to higher command to make decisions, the nature of POI operations requires our soldiers to be more independent. Hence junior commanders and ground troops are expected to make split second on-the-scene decisions, for instance, deciding that the situation is not right and reporting it," MAJ Wong added.
Firm but effectiveBy patrolling and standing guard in civilian installations, 6 SIR soldiers come into contact with non-military personnel daily. MAJ Wong said that managing civilians requires important people skills.
He said: "We have thinking soldiers who understand the seriousness of their task, and know what are out-of-bounds areas when dealing with civilians. Hence they are able to respond effectively to civilians, to remain polite yet firm."
MAJ Wong continued: "There will always be a couple of civilians who become agitated or are unco-operative. But our soldiers have been able to calm them down and explained why certain actions must be taken or procedures followed. Most of the time, we get their full co-operation after we explain the rationale to them."
What about the relationship with commercial companies? How do they feel about military personnel guarding their compound?
MAJ Wong replied that perhaps, initially, there might have been some discomfort.
"But now, our civilian counterparts recognise the possible threats we face and how significant security is. They understand that the SAF, together with other homeland agencies, enhances the security of their areas.
They tell us they feel relieved when they see our soldiers, and are impressed by the professionalism and skills demonstrated by the soldiers."
MAJ Wong is also glad to note that 6 SIR has established strong ties with external agencies like the Police or the Coast Guard who protect the installations alongside the SAF troops.
"Through joint exercises, regular meetings and training, we understand each other's operating procedures and tactics better, and have built very close friendships and working relationships with other agencies," he said.
"We are able to enhance the inter-operability of the SAF with other homeland security agencies, and I am confident that, together, we have multiplied our effectiveness and efficiency to deal with any situations."
Protecting SingaporeansPlanning ahead, MAJ Wong hopes to leverage on technology as a force multiplier.
Working with relevant agencies, he said his soldiers are currently trying out new technology and procedures to boost their capabilities.
For instance, they are trying out tracking devices and surveillance systems like mobile cameras, to enhance their situational awareness and command and control of troops on the ground.
Simulators could also be used to enhance the soldiers' skills.
Six months after turning operationally ready, how does MAJ Wong evaluate his soldiers' performance?
He replied thoughtfully: "I am very proud of them. I can see that they understand the importance of their job and they take it very seriously. They have been able to adapt and learn among themselves, to enhance their knowledge."
"Furthermore, in public, they have been able to maintain a very positive image of the Army, yet deal with situations firmly and politely. All this shows that the training we give them is useful and the soldiers are motivated to do their job well."
What this all means is that the good work of 6 SIR soldiers allows for all Singaporeans to go about their daily routine, assured that there is a specialised and dedicated force that is effectively protecting key installations, indirectly protecting us all.