The concept of an Armed Forces Day was finalised in early 1969. The objective for this special day was for the members of the armed forces to reaffirm their pledge of loyalty and dedication to the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and the nation. It would also allow them to reflect on their roles and responsibilities in the defence of the nation.

SAF units re-affirming the pledge of loyalty on SAF Day, 1971 (Courtesy of Ministry of Defence Singapore)

The first SAF day, then known as Armed Forces Day, was held on 1st July 1969 and witnessed a 1,500-strong contingent of servicemen and women in a grand parade finale and march-past at Jalan Besar Stadium. In a day filled with regimentation and pledges of loyalty, the most solemn moment was the presentation of the SAF Flag for the first time to the 3rd Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment (SIR).

Since its inception in 1965, the SAF has grown from a small volunteer force to a formidable military force with broad multi-spectral capabilities. This remarkable transformation would have seemed improbable in 1965 when Singapore became an independent nation. The fledgling SAF then comprised of 1 and 2 SIR, the Singapore Volunteer Corps and two Navy ships, the RSS Panglima and the RSS Singapura. Much work needed to be done to build a credible force.

The presentation of the SAF Flag to 3 SIR by Mr Lim Kim San (third from left). Looking on is the late Mr George Bogaars (far left), Permanent Secretary to the Ministry. (Courtesy of Ministry of Defence Singapore)

Over the years, the SAF has seen its operational capability and readiness advance by leaps and bounds as it acquired weapons and equipment that routinely test the boundaries of leading-edge technology. In the process, the challenge to integrate complex and sophisticated combat systems into the SAF to work as a coherent whole has fallen on the shoulders of the men and women of the SAF. Their unfailing and dedication to duty and tireless commitment has ensured that the spectacular remaking of the SAF into a modern fighting force is a reality. So while the SAF maintains its edge as an advanced fighting force with an impressive array of hardware; its people, or “heart ware”, are the real strength behind the force.

Mr Lim Kim San inspecting the parade. (Courtesy of Ministry of Defence Singapore)

The SAF will have to continue to remake itself in order to respond ably to the changing environment. Events like the September 11th incident in the USA and the SARS outbreak in the region have demonstrated the reality of unconventional threats to our security. When called upon, the SAF has responded quickly and robustly every time. Now more than ever, the SAF will need the collective talents of its servicemen and the commitment of its citizen soldiers to transform for the challenges ahead.

Through its successful humanitarian, rescue and UN missions and the accolades gathered from the armed forces of friendly states undergoing multilateral training, the SAF has shown that it is capable, credible and ready. Equipped with modern equipment and training, the SAF strives to be always ready for its role as protector of the nation – be it on land, sea or air. The SAF instils confidence in Singaporeans as the primary protector of our nation – be it on land, sea or air. The SAF instils confidence in Singaporeans as the primary protector of our nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Kindly be informed that on 4 & 5 July 2009, Army Museum of Singapore (ARMS) will be offering “Free Entry to all Visitors” in commemoration of SAF Day.  Come visit us!

If you are planning for guided school tour for your school, RSVP by 30 June 2009 to secure a slot.  There are a total of 8 slots for booking per day.  Each slot should last about an hour.  Book early to avoid disappointment.

For more information of our Museum, please  log on to www.armymuseum.sg