Yalor it's abt a yr liao leh... But IMO, things are getting better and better for each new batch of trainees... Not being in Tekong really defeats the purpose of the SISPEC training...
Those who graduated frm Tekong's SISPEC would nurture better into the army lifestyle. Imagine... The joy of BMT POP and thought u can finally get out of that damned island... Enjoying ur blk leave, thought u can haf a stable life after BMT and bk out occassionally to meet ur GF during weekdays... Only to get ur posting and... Back to Tekong!
Not only that, u haf to board a 5 tonner to drive 15 mins to the ulu compound. Haf to battle spiritual fears since it's deeper in the jungle, battle emotional stress cos' bk in is such a hassle and oso knowing u can't meet ur family and frenz fer 5 1/2 days or more. Haf to learn to build solid frenships and rely on one another cos' when u wake up every damn morning to wear ur combat gear wif camo on immediately after breakfast. And how convenient, the training ground is juz right behind ur bunk building! Getting weird bugs occassionally in the bunk... etc...
Pasir Laba is such a nice camp. I really envy those new SISPEC guys. Tho' training intensity shld be the same, but at least the environment is much friendlier and easier to adapt to. But training in the old Tekong compound would definitely evoke more memories in years to come.