First and foremost, I want to express that it is a great privilege to be able to reminisce. Do not get the wrong idea about me, because what I wish to express in here is that it is certainly a beautiful opportunity and platform for anyone to rethink through some of the events that took place.
More often than not, we always indulged ourselves into our interests, hobbies and work during leisure time. Surely, there is nothing wrong with that because I behave similarly most of the times. However, there would come a phase whereby before you decide to continue, you would want to close the chapter before beginning to start a new one.
This post will recount my 9 months journey in OCS, my heartfelt gratitude to my friends, family and my partner.
It is no doubt one of the greatest achievements to have entered OCS after my basic military training. To bluntly share my perspective of the army – it was never optimistic because of the immediate forfeiture of freedom. Yet similar to many others, I am aware of the importance of national defence. The Tekong days were never quite enjoyable because I dreaded it every day. Strangely, I still gave my best in training and exercises. I am an example of such living paradox if there are any. Surely, this would be the confidence that Singapore can rely on, that her people will fight for survival, deterrence and independence if there is a need, however, dislike they may be.
To have graduated from the class of 101/15 officer cadet course is never possible without my friends, family, and my partner. They have guided and brought me to this point which I can safely say that, my closest people in this life. Friends have made this journey real meaningful and definitely, an unforgettable one to remember for many years to come. It's this camaraderie built that reminds all of us that we have each other to rely on if we fail one day and as well as, the purpose to live on each day. Many of us may have parted on that very proud moment, 26 June 2016, but our souls remain ever interconnected. That would be the second assurance that Singapore may have because if we have to fight to keep our friends safe and sound, we will.
This day, I had the privilege to enjoy the peace and stability in Singapore. This was not something built in a day but the result of progressive efforts over the past 50 years, which our generation must understand and never ever take it for granted. The pioneer built the trees and it shall be our responsibility to water it and witness it grows. I am deeply grateful to have my family members always having my back when times are difficult. They are the source of my energy to accomplishing things which I never thought possible. The past 21 years have been full of sorrow and joy, but more importantly, I have learnt to grow to become a better person for you all, my friends, and my partner. The grueling 9 months in OCS may have taught and strengthen each and every one of us in a different manner, but it will always be towards a similar vision - to overcome the difficult times together.
Allow me, if I may go all the way back to the very fateful day, 28 June 2014, it will be the day whereby I got together with my partner. Till date, it has been 2 years and I have grown out a lot from it. My partner, Kit Yee, I want to let you know that you are the shiniest and as well as, the most brilliant star in my universe. You are the one that shed light in most of the difficult phases and at the same time, makes me want to improve and fight for my cause and pursue my dreams. You are the final fateful piece to my incomplete puzzle in my life. I am glad to have met you in this lifetime.
Don't mind the mushiness. Moving on, as I further recall myself as a cadet of the OCS, there were certainly many regrets. I was ignorant and selfish at times. There were instances that I just neither want to participate nor place in the effort. Of course, I was snapped back into reality upon the thought of my loved ones. They certainly would not be proud nor be approving of my actions. And it did take me some time before I realize this. That's human nature.
Finally, the takeaways from the Officer Cadet Training journey is extraordinary. It is a place whereby it embraces you with the most arduous and difficult times, and collectively, everyone will overcome to stand tall and proud to become an unchallengeable force.
I am thankful for the experience, OCS.
To lead, To excel, To overcome.
I am thankful for the experience, OCS.
To lead, To excel, To overcome.
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