A newly commissioned Officer

18 Jan 2014 certainly marked a new chapter for Aaron-James Teo. Commissioned by the President of the Republic of Singapore at the SAFTI Military Institute, the 70th Midshipman Course together with their counterparts from the Army and Air Force don their 2LT epaulettes for the very first time; a start to their leadership role in the SAF.

Following the march past in review order and receiving their commissioning order from the President, the cadets/MIDS took their pace up the grand stand where the VVIPs, parents and well wishes were and returning to the parade square for the grand finale where they don their new rank as 2LT.

The traditional changing of MIDS epaulettes to that of the 2LT by parents set forth this journey as an Officer of the SAF, joining the thousands who had took similar path over the years. He now joins his parents and two uncles as a commissioned officer in the SAF.

The many photo-shots with sisters, families and friends was the order of the day, following the simple yet significant ceremony. Congratulatory messages and well wishes marks the happy/memorable day for the newly commissioned officers.

Grandparents were also in the list of photo-shoot in the crowded parade square of the SAFTI MI. Its a little easier to find a naval guy in the crowd as their are the only ones in all whites.

Many more quick shots had to be taken as the announcement for the next segment of the programme was due ... the dinner for families and guests.

It was one quick and final shot that seem never ending. As the sun set and with the crowd dispersing in various directions, the parade square quickly made way for the cleaning parties who have the task of ensuring that the place is ready for the next day programme.

Joined by RADM Harris Chan and COL Gerald Heng, a final shot with parents and grandparents before adjourning to the dining hall. Welcome aboard to join the many before you in the Defense of Singapore. "What we cannot defend, is not ours !!!"

2nd trip to Muscat

Following an initial trip in Jul 2013, the 2nd trip to Muscat, Oman was a little more productive in that we managed to make prior arrangement to meet up with long lost friends. First, there was a mini ex-navy meet up with Nicholas Koh and Daniel Lim who are based at Muscat and with Cindy Ong (formerly from NPD) with her husband who had recently proceeded there.

Cindy and her husband, Bernard took some of us out for a drive in the city under the bright clear skies but to a temperature of about 22 deg C. Simply like open air, air-condition. Being a weekend, the streets were not congested and moving around was a breeze.

Also caught up with Loukas from the IMO over breakfast in the open air. Perfect weather for outdoor activities. Not often can one dress up under the bright sun to enjoy the cool fresh air.

Though only a 3-night stay, it was a welcomed experience under the Omani winter condition @ the Hyatt Hotel, Muscat.