247 NEWLY COMMISSIONED OFFICERS
Two hundred and forty-seven officer cadets (OCTs) were commissioned as officers at a parade officiated by the Speaker of Parliament, Mr Abdullah Tarmugi, this evening.
This is the fourth and final cohort to graduate from the Singapore Armed Forces' (SAF) Officer Cadet School this year. The cohort is made up of 221 cadets from the Army and 23 cadets from the Air Force, and three foreign cadets- two from Brunei and one from Thailand. The OCTs had to undergo 42 weeks of rigorous training in leadership, military history, military law, military tactics, and weapon handling.
Two cadets, OCT Cheng Nian-Han from the Army and OCT Yew Liansheng from the Air Force clinched the Sword-of-Honour award for their sterling performances. They, together with the three foreign cadets, received their ceremonial swords from Mr Tarmugi. The OCTs were assessed on their ability to lead and motivate others, their organisational ability, proficiency in military skills and physical fitness.
Minister-of-State for Defence Mr Cedric Foo, senior MINDEF/SAF officials, Members of Parliament, students from the National Cadet Corps, and grassroots leaders witnessed this eveningÂ’s event. Families and friends of the OCTs were also present to affix epaulettes onto the ceremonial uniforms of the newly commissioned officers. Such public involvement and support at the parade is a reminder of the important role of total defence in ensuring Singapore's continued peace and security.[/b]