ourArmyCustomsTraditions

Contents 1
19
Foreword from Chief of Army 31
Message from SAF Sergeant Major 59
Note from Sergeant Major of the Army 81
Preface 91
Editorial Committee 99
Our Beginnings 111
Military Etiquette and Decorum 115
Colours, Standard and Pennant 133
Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display 135
Parade and Ceremony 137
Mess Customs 145
Military Dining-In 147
Military Wedding
Do You Know...?
Bibliography
Reference
Origins of Military Words
Special Thanks
Index

First Published April 2006

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be produced in any
form or by any means, without their prior permission of the Ministry of Defence

Foreword from
Chief of Army

Even as we do Our Army is as much a part of our Our ceremonies, rituals and
away with symbolism are not always
excessive defence capability as it is a national understood or appreciated by our
regimentation institution. Over the past 40 years, soldiers and commanders today.
and move it has remained steadfast in Even as we do away with excessive
towards a more helping to turn boys to men, and regimentation and move towards
progressive style fostered a sense of mission and a more progressive style of
of leadership, we values in both regulars and leadership, we must comprehend
must national servicemen. As we why we do some of the things that
comprehend why continue our journey to the 3G we do, before we decide to keep or
we do some of Army, it is timely to take stock of change them. This book provides
the things that some of the heritage, customs and useful answers to the questions
we do, before we traditions that define us. Although that our soldiers will have about
decide to keep we are a relatively young Army, our customs and traditions, and
or change them. some of our existing practices can why we keep some of them even
be traced back to the years of though they may seem dated. As
colonial rule, and to the shared our Army transforms to face the
roots and identity of military future, it will better inform and
organisations across the world. inspire future generations of
soldiers and leaders about our
These customs and traditions heritage even as they seek to
provide an anchor to the past. They create new paths of their own.
are constant reminders of where
we have been, and how we have MG DESMOND KUEK BAK CHYE
arrived here. They are the very Chief of Army
elements of the military profession Singapore Armed Forces
that distinguish us and convey the
richness of our Army’s tapestry,
embroidered with the history and
experience of our units and
formations. This connection with
the past will lend our soldiers a
sense of meaning and purpose,
even as they journey into the
future.

Message from

SAF Sergeant

We must not The observance of the customs Major
only understand
them; we must and traditions of the Army is an So what is a healthy military
believe in them, integral part of military life and culture? It is a recipe of many
model them in their retention will continue greatly ingredients that provide a basic
our own actions to the maintenance of esprit de framework for our moral and
and teach others corps. organisation values. Additionally,
to accept and it is the rich Army history
live by them. The words ‘customs’ and interwoven with customs,
‘traditions’ hold important traditions and a “warrior spirit”.
meaning for soldiers. Over time it will evolve and mature
into the foundation of our
The Army’s customs include the organisational principles.
people, events and ideas from the
past that influence the present. Throughout the course of our
Customs are often manifested in military history, the Army has
ceremonies, museum exhibits, developed a distinct culture that
memorials on Army installations portrays an identity to its members
such as named streets, buildings, and the general public. Service
or landmarks. members throughout the Army do
not consider themselves as part of
Traditions are daily visible a generic Armed Forces but
reminders of our Army’s core instead identify themselves by
values and proud heritage. They vocations, eg. Infantry, Armour,
remind us of the need for units to Artillery, etc.
work together so that traditions
can be fostered and perpetuated. Thus, I am confident that we live
You will be surrounded by, and be by the Army’s customs and
part of the tradition as long as you traditions and embrace them in our
are associated with the Army. daily life as our own. We must not
only understand them; we must
A strong well-defined culture built believe in them, model them in our
on the past traditions and history own actions and teach others to
of the Army is critical to a healthy accept and live by them.
military organisation. A vibrant
military culture is so vital, if absent SWO GUNGA
or weak, may have a devastating SAF Sergeant Major
impact on the military’s readiness. Singapore Armed Forces

Note from
Sergeant Major

of the Army

A proud tradition The Army customs and traditions or without; you can’t really feel any
is to a military personal credit for having it, nor any
organization what provide the rationale behind its personal chagrin for not having it.
“being from a past practices and a roadmap for Second, and much more important,
good family” is to the future. As such, we must not unit or family traditions serve a
an individual. only continue to preserve the common purpose of setting a
First, it is a thing customs and traditions of the standard to live up to.
you are born with Army, but also understand its
or without; you significance. In conclusion, I wish to extend my
can’t really feel personal appreciation to the
any personal The intent of this book is to share Editorial Committee for their
credit for having the pertinent practices, customs professionalism, determination
it, nor any and traditions as reference material and perseverance in compiling
personal chagrin that provides information that this book.
for not having it. connects us with the past to the
present. SWO FRANCIS NG
Sergeant Major of the Army
Customs and traditions have Singapore Armed Forces
played a crucial part in shaping
and developing the Army. In the
process of this development and
transformation journey, the Army
has certainly grown in stature.
This is partly because we have
inherited the richness of British
practices during the period of
colonial rule. In order to continue
growing, we must satisfy our thirst
for knowledge and understand the
rationale for specific practices.

A proud tradition is to a military
organization what “being from a
good family” is to an individual.
First, it is a thing you are born with

Preface

We sometimes Singapore, being a young and never-ending, but tremendously
get confused with fascinating.
“Old Wife’s vibrant nation for almost 40 years
Tales”. These has a good harvest of inheritance In this book, what we have tried to
stories have from our forefathers who lived off do is to tell the story of, and the
great bearing to this land way before we ever story behind the principal customs
some of our existed. Many influences were and traditions of the Army. There
practices which brought down by foreigners like are many that we must have
has logical the British, Dutch, Chinese, overlooked, or have had to omit.
meanings and Malays, Indians and others. All
accepted even these nationalities, races and their We hope that some of our readers
today. These religion have a great impact on who know of customs and
accepted what we practice today. However, traditions prevailing in our Army
practices became changes have been made over time may highlight their views and
our customs and to suit our modern society. perspective so that we can include
tradition. them in later editions of this book.
We sometimes get confused with So let’s begin our journey together.
“Old Wife’s Tales”. These stories
have great bearing to some of our We have defined the three main
practices which has logical ideas in this book as follows:
meanings and accepted even
today. These accepted practices Customs: The usual ways of
became our customs and behaving or acting.
traditions.
Traditions: The handing down
We have tried to answer as many from generation to generation of
queries as possible. It was great customs, beliefs, etc.
fun delving into the archives
trying to find answers to the Heritage: Anything that has been
questions that were posed. The transmitted from the past or
idea for this book was conceived handed down by tradition.
from those faded and crumpled
papers on the early historical files. With this understanding now, it
gives us more meaning and
We have never tried setting interest in our heritage where
deadline trying to complete this customs and traditions were
task. We reckoned this would take formed.
a long time because the research,
questioning and the interviewing of Happy reading.
those who were instrumental in
creating customs and traditions of
one kind or another proved

Editorial
Committee

Advisor : SWO S. CHANDRAN
Chairman : MWO PETER ESTROP
DY Chairman : 2WO OLIVEIRO EDWARD
Secretary : 1WO NICHOLAS TAN
Research Team : MWO GORDON CHITRAN

MWO SUNDARAJ
MWO KARAMJIT SINGH
MWO AMAR SINGH
1WO KOH JIN JEE
1WO PUNNIYA
1WO TAN CHIN TECK
1WO GAFOOR
1WO TEO CHYE SENG
1WO LEE BOON YONG
1WO SUNDRAM
1WO RAYMOND KEE
1WO JUDE VINCENT
2WO ABDUL RAZAK
2WO PETE SEENIVASAN
2WO OLIVEIRO LAWRENCE
2WO CHRIS CHER
3SG SATHIYA MOORTHY
CPL ALAGAPPAN BALAMURUGAN
PTE NIGEL NG ZHEREN



Our Beginnings

The Birth of SAF
The Ministry of Interior and
Defence
SAFTI – Singapore Armed Forces
Training Institute
Officer Cadet School – First
Intake of Officer Cadets
SAFTI Military Institute
SAFTI Pioneer Regimental
Sergeant Majors
Singapore National Flag, Anthem
and State Arms
National Flag
National Anthem
Guidelines on playing the
National Anthem
State Arms
SAF Crest
National Service
Oath of Allegiance
SAF Pledge
Code of Conduct
SAF Core Values



THE BIRTH OF SAF registration began in earnest at the
Central Manpower Base (CMPB)
After more than 100 years of British for the first batch of citizens who
colonial rule and two tumultuous were born between 1 January 1949
years under the Malaysian and 30 June 1949 – some 9,000 of
Federation, Singapore was left to them. This marked the beginning
fend for herself. It was a time of of the citizen army and also the
great uncertainty as the leaders start of National Service as a way
were faced with the enormous task of life for the male citizens of
of charting the path of our national Singapore.
destiny. Nevertheless, Singapore
was determined to not only The start of National Service led Singapore was
survive on its own, but to to many of 1 SIR’s experienced determined to not
succeed. commanders being called upon to only survive on its
train National Servicemen. In own, but to
An urgent priority after October 1968, 1 SIR joined the succeed.
independence was to build up ranks of 3 and 4 SIR in training
Singapore’s own defense national servicemen and by the
capability. Singapore’s very first end of 1969, 1 SIR had become a
battalion of regular soldiers, the 1st fully operational national service
Bn. Singapore Infantry Regiment battalion.
(1 SIR) was formed on 12 March
1957 against a backdrop of First 1 SIR logo inaugurated on 4
impending self-government. March 1957. The logo used was one
Together with 2 SIR, which was of a lion standing on a tower. This
raised from 1962, this was the only first logo was reminiscent of British
defence Singapore had in the post- influence with its richness and
independence years. grandeur.

It was with that in mind that the 1 SIR was based at Guillemard
then Prime Minister, Mr Lee Kuan Camp since January 1969, together
Yew and other Ministers appealed with the Volunteers, provided the
to Singapore citizens to support simple foundation around which
National Service. our modern armed forces took
shape.
The passing of the NS
(Amendment) Act in mid-Mar 1967
was a turning point in the lives of
Singaporean males. Between 28
March 1967 and 18 April 1967,

Our Beginnings 3

the guiding principle of the whole
SAF representing victory and
merit in all our endeavors.

With the The second logo of 1SIR was instituted on The SAF Crest of today bears a
announcement March 11, 1961 strong resemblance to 1 SIR’s
having been logo. The guiding principle of the
made of the Only the top 10 per cent of the 9,000 SAF is reflected on the ribbon –
British pulling out were chosen for two years of full- “YANG PERTAMA DAN
her forces from time military training in two new UTAMA” (FIRST AND
Singapore, it NS army battalions – the 3rd and 4th FOREMOST) signifying victory
became Bn. Singapore Infantry Regiments and merit in all endeavours. The
imperative to (3 and 4 SIR) at Taman Jurong laurels surrounding the crest are a
accelerate out Camp. The first batch of enlistees symbol of honour, glory, excellence
military build-up full-time military service reported and virtues that the SAF strives
from 17 August 1967. A total of 450 continuously to achieve.
men were absorbed into each
battalion with formal training Those who were not selected for
commencing on 11 September full-time military service served in
1967. the Peoples’ Defence Force (PDF),
the Vigilante Corps and Special
In an attempt to re-envision the Constabulary.
identity of the battalion, a second
logo was instituted on 11 March With the announcement having
1961. been made of the British pulling
out her forces from Singapore, it
“First and Foremost” has come a became more imperative to
long way from being the motto of accelerate our military build-up
our pioneer battalion to become and attract more resources for
defence.

THE MINISTRY OF INTERIOR
AND DEFENCE

Singapore youths sign up for National Service at CMPB Many of us are familiar with the
old Police Headquarters at Pearl’s
Hill in Chinatown. However, not
many may know that in November
1965, the newly set-up Ministry of
Interior and Defence, now known

4 Our Beginnings

as Ministry of Defence, occupied training camps was set up to train The build-up of
the site which continued to be its volunteers and to build up new the SAF was no
home until 1972. volunteer battalions. In February easy task which
1966, the Jurong Military School was made worse
The Ministry of Interior and (now known as the SAF Training by the lack of
Defence (MID) was set up Institute or SAFTI) was set up and internal expertise
amidst tumultuous political in June of the same year, the first and experience.
developments in 1965. Following intake of young men started their
Singapore’s hasty and unexpected Officer Cadet training. By the time
separation from Malaysia, Singapore celebrated her first
Singapore gained independence National Day on 9 August 1966, the
on 9 August 1965 almost hard work and dedication of MID
overnight. Of the various nation- were evident in the young but
building problems that confronted promising Armed Forces.
our political leaders, one of the
most pressing and urgent tasks
was to build a defence force from
scratch.

Dr Goh Keng Swee was tasked to MID’s home in Pearl’s Hill
helm the newly established
Ministry in Aug 1965 as the first On 11 August, 1970, the Ministry
Defence Minister. of Interior and Defence was split
into two ministries – the Ministry
The build-up of the Singapore of Defence (MINDEF) and the
Armed Forces was no easy task Ministry of Home Affairs. In
which was made worse by the February 1972, MINDEF moved
lack of internal expertise and from Pearl’s Hill to Tanglin Complex
experience. The period at Napier Road. The latter served
immediately following the set-up as MINDEF’s headquarters until
of the ministry was one of frenzied April 1989 when the ministry
but careful planning and shifted to its present site at Bukit
groundwork. Large scale Gombak.
recruitment brought the regular
Singapore Infantry Regiments and Today, MINDEF continues to
the mobilised Volunteer Forces up be the Joint and Service
to strength. After intensive Headquaters for the Army, Navy
training, they formed the first
Singapore Infantry Brigade. At the
same time, People’s Defence Force

Our Beginnings 5

The first course conducted was
a three-month Instructors’
Preparatory Course held from 14
February 1966.

Tanglin Complex served as MINDEF’s headquarters from 1972 to 1989 As works began on a permanent
home for SAFTI at Pasir Laba, the
and Air Force, providing policy first batch of 300 recruits arrived at
direction, managerial and the institute on 1 June, 1966.
technological support for the SAF.
A few special-to-arms training
SAFTI – SINGAPORE ARMED schools also had their beginnings in
FORCES TRAINING INSTITUTE SAFTI. These included schools,
Artillery, Engineers, Armour,
This Institute was On 18 Jun, 1966, Singapore Armed Signals, Infantry Weapons and
to train officers to Forces Training Institute (SAFTI) Military Medicine.
lead the new Corps was officially declared open by Dr
of men who were to Goh Keng Swee, then the Minister OFFICER CADET SCHOOL
form the Sigapore for Defence. The institute was also (OCS) – FIRST INTAKE OF
Armed Forces. presented with its formation sign OFFICER CADETS
of a torch (signifying education)
and scimitar (denoting military The Officer Cadet School (OCS)
training) during its official is widely known among
opening. Singaporeans, and is often
associated with prestige and
The need for a military institute leadership. Graduands of OCS
arose when defence became one have every reason to feel
of the main priorities for Singapore immeasurable pride with having
in 1965. This institute was to train completed nearly a year of
officers to lead the new corps of intensive and often gruelling
men who were to form the physical training as well as mental
Singapore Armed Forces. and psychological testing to
become the future leaders of the
SAFTI had its humble beginnings Singapore Armed Forces.
in the Jurong Primary School
where it was then informally known Today, officer cadet training is
as the Jurong Military Institute. done at the SAFTI Military
Institute (SAFTI MI) in Jurong.
Established in February 1996,

6 Our Beginnings

Applicants were
required to sit for an IQ
test

SAFTI MI was then known as the The arrival of
SAF Training Institute or SAFTI the first
and was originally housed in batch of
Jurong Primary School. recruits on
Immediately after Singapore June 1, June
gained independence, one of the 1966
most compelling tasks faced by
our leaders was to build a credible qualify for OCS. Such were the high
armed forces. Hence, the primary expectations of the officer cadet
aim of SAFTI was to train officers course! On 1 June 1966, the first
and non-commissioned officers intake of officer cadets was received
(NCOs or Specialists as they are into SAFTI.
known today) to lead the then
infant SAF. Today, the spirit of Officer Cadet Today, the spirit of
training remains unwavering in its Officer Cadet
To attract the best of the nation’s primary aim to produce future training remains
youth to join, the Ministry of leaders for the SAF. Emphasis is unwavering in its
Defence mounted a massive placed on technical knowledge primary aim to
recruitment campaign in May and its application; physical produce future
1966. The response was aptitude including physical leaders for the
overwhelming with some 2500 fitness, dexterity with weapons, SAF.
young men applying. Of these, alertness, and combat skills; and
500 were short listed and called the spiritual foundation that will
up for selection. The selection prevail over the trials in the
process was rigorous and battlefield. Officer Cadet training
thorough, and included written is as much a test of physical
tests, IQ tests, interviews and strength as it is a test of mental
physical fitness tests. The attributes such as tenacity,
process was meticulous to sieve determination and sheer will
out those with the necessary
mental attributes, physical
endurance and determination to

Our Beginnings 7

SAFTI
Formation Sign

Dr. Goh Keng Swee at the official opening Institute was announced. Hence, the
construction of the SAFTI Military
power. This is often the most Institute at its present site.

challenging task for OCS – to impart The name ‘SAFTI’, so well known
as the professional training
the abstract value system that ground of SAF leaders, was
adopted for the Military Institute.
enables the cadet to push himself In his ground-breaking speech on
9 June 1990, then Prime Minister
beyond his perceived limits and Mr. Lee Kuan Yew said that for the
pioneers of SAFTI, the difficult
The name sustain him as a commander in the process of nation-building evoked
face of seemingly overwhelming an instinctive and conscious
commitment to the ideals of
‘SAFTI’, so well odds. individual excellence and national
responsibility.
known as the Officer cadet training, from its
professional rigorous selection process to its He further added that these
training ground multi-faceted training and pioneers understood the choices
of SAF leaders, discipline, ensures that there will that confronted them and did their
was adopted for always be men and women who best to share in the creation of a
the Military have what it takes to lead and corps of men driven to excel for
Institute. command within the SAF. the nation. This, in essence, is the
spirit of SAFTI MI. This spirit of
SAFTI MILITARY INSTITUTE the pioneering batches is not only
(SAFTI MI) preserved but also much alive as
the SAFTI MI continues to train
By the 1980s, the SAF had and produce leaders of stamina,
expanded significantly and courage and drive.
SAFTI’s training facilities at Pasir
Laba were no longer adequate to SAFTI Crest
cope with the increasing demands
of training. At the same time, as
the SAF came of age, there was a
growing recognition of the need
for greater integration in the
training and professionalism of
officers from the three Services (i.e.
Army, Navy and Air Force). In
1987, the proposal for a new
institute – the SAFTI Military

8 Our Beginnings

On 25 August 1995, the institute was
officially opened by then Prime
Minister Mr Goh Chok Tong

- “This Institute is not just a The New SAFTI MI
collection of buildings for the
training of military officers. It is a Sandhurst in England or USA’s
national institution, embodying
our will to defend our nation, our Westpoint, SAFTI MI’s significance “It is a national
determination to fight to preserve
our freedom and our way of life, if to the SAF is clear. institution,
the need ever arises. It is a symbol
of how far we have come as an SAFTI MI builds upon SAFTI’s embodying our will
armed forces and as a nation.” He
said emphasizing SAFTI’s status tradition of providing to defend our
as an institution for the people.
professional, rigorous and nation, our
Located on 88 hectares of land
along Upper Jurong Road, the disciplined training for Army, Navy determination to
SAFTI Military Institute is
arguably the most impressive if not and Air Force officers. Through its fight to preserve
the most imposing structure of all tri-service training, SAFTI MI aims our freedom and
SAF buildings. From the red to forge common bonds and
terracotta of the main buildings to commitment among fellow officers, our way of life, if
the cascading terraces at the
Cadet Dining Hall, SAFTI MI is a and build an integrated SAF. the need ever
handsome complex indeed.
Although its history is relatively arises.”
short, compared to other more
established and prestigious SAFTI PIONEER - Mr Goh Chok Tong
military institutes such as
REGIMENTAL SERGEANT
First intake of SAFTI recruits
undergoing the fitness test. MAJORS

From left: WO1 Shamsudin B. Shadan, WO1 Hong Seng Mak,
WO1 Ali Pawiro, WO1 Sng Cheng Chye

In all SAF camps, the Regimental
Sergeant Major (RSM) is a
highly respected and often
feared figure. This is even more
so in SAFTI which is held in awe
for the high standards of
discipline and regimentation set
by the RSMs. Among the most
prolific RSMs in SAFTI’s history

Our Beginnings 9

were WO1 Shamsudim B. Sadan authority and loyalty for all
(the 1st RSM), WO1 Hong Seng Singaporeans.

Mak (better known as “Tiger” The State Arms, National Flag and
National Anthem were presented
Hong), WO1 Ali Pawiro and to the nation on 3 Dec 1959 during
the launch of “Loyalty Week”
WO1 Sng Cheng Chye. While (after the installation of the new
Head of State Yang Di-Pertuan
WO1 Shamsudin, “Tiger” Hong Yusok Bin Ishak). “Loyalty Week”
was an appropriate occasion as it
and WO1 Sng were strict, no- was aimed at instilling civic pride
and a sense of belonging amongst
nonsense and fastidious to a Singaporeans.

fault when it came to NATIONAL FLAG

The Regimental regimentation and discipline. The National flag is halved
Sergeant Major However, WO1 Ali Pawiro was horizontally – red over white with
(RSM) inculcates regarded by most as an the crescent moon sided by five stars
respect for endearing and fatherly figure. in a circle all in white. The red and
authority, Regardless of their differing white colours and the symbols of the
reverence for the styles, all shared the same high crescent and five stars stand for the
national flag, standards and unflagging same values as that of the State
dedication. As RSMs, they Arms.

deference for inculcated respect for authority, The colour red is symbolic of
universal brotherhood and
ceremonial places reverence for the national flag, equality of men while the white
symbolises pervading and
like the parade deference for ceremonial places everlasting purity and virtue. The
crescent represents a young
square, and the like the parade square, and the country on its ascent in its ideals
importance to importance to maintain a strict
maintain a strict military bearing. To date, these
military bearing. values remain the very essence
of the martial spirit which SAFTI

inculcates in each graduate from

its schools.

SINGAPORE NATIONAL
FLAG, ANTHEM AND STATE
ARMS

On 30 November 1959, the
Singapore National Flag, Anthem
and State Arms Ordinance, were
introduced. This ordinance
provided for the regulation of the
use, display and performance of
the State Arms, State Flag and
National Anthem – the symbols of

10 Our Beginnings

of establishing democracy, peace, Majulah Singapura (sung in Malay)
progress, justice and equality as
indicated by the five stars. Mari kita rakyat Singapura
Sama-sama menuju bahagia
NATIONAL ANTHEM
Cita-cita kita yang mulia
The National Anthem was Berjaya Singapura
originally commissioned for use Marilah kita bersatu
by the then City Council as its
official song. The late Encik Zubir Dengan semangat yang baru
Said, a composer of film music was Semua kita berseru
approached to compose this song. Majulah Singapura
The song was to be titled Majulah Majulah Singapura
Singapura which was based on the
same words displayed in the Onward Singapore (English translation)
Victoria Theatre after it underwent
renovations in 1958. Composed in We, the people of Singapore
the national language, the song Together march towards happiness
was first performed by the
Singapore Chamber Ensemble Our noble aspiration
during the official opening of the To make Singapore a success
renovated Victoria Theatre on 6
September 1958. Let us all unite
In a new spirit
When Singapore attained self- Together we proclaim
governance in 1959, a national Onward Singapore
anthem was needed to unite the Onward Singapore
different races in Singapore. The
government decided that the
already popular City Council song
Majulah Singapura was the song
that would appeal to all races. After
some revisions were made to the
song, Majulah Singapura was
adopted as the National Anthem
in November 1959, replacing the
colonial anthem, God Save the
Queen.

Our Beginnings 11

The lion GUIDELINES ON PLAYING THE
represents NATIONAL ANTHEM
Singapore and
the tiger the 1. Dignity and decorum must always be observed in the playing and
island’s historic singing of the National Anthem.
links with
Malaysia. 2. The singing of the National Anthem is to be encouraged whenever it
is played. Emcees should request everyone present to sing and, where
possible, a singer or choir should lead the mass singing.

3. Both public and private organizations are encouraged to play and
sing the National Anthem on all occasions pertaining to National Day
celebrations and at events of national significance (sports, community,
government and corporate events), as appropriate.

4. Preferably, the full version should be sung on all occasions. The
abridged version could be played for less formal occasions, as
appropriate. In this case, no singing and saluting are required.

STATE ARMS SAF CREST

The State Arms consist of a shield Flags and symbols have a powerful
emblazoned with a white crescent emotive influence over people.
moon and five white stars on a red Throughout history, they have
background. Supporting the been used by governments and
shield are a Lion on the left and a organizations to rally and garner
Tiger on the right. Below the support and affiliations. In the
shield are the words Majulah SAF, military colours and logos are
Singapura (“Let Singapore probably the most recognizable
Flourish”). The lion represents marks of identity. They forge a
Singapore and the tiger the sense of belonging, esprit de
island’s historic links with corps and pride. While each of the
Malaysia. three Services has its own crest,

12 Our Beginnings

the one that undeniably binds all NATIONAL SERVICE The SAF Crest
servicemen is the SAF Crest. For all symbolises the
Singaporeans, it represents our With the decision to build our protection and
integrated armed forces. defence forces around the citizen- preservation of
soldier concept, 2 SIR as well as 1 the values of
The origins of the SAF Crest dates SIR were converted into National democracy,
back to 11 March 1961 and fittingly, Service units. In 1968, both peace,
are intertwined with the story of battalions took in their first batches progress,
Singapore’s first and oldest of full-time National Servicemen justice and
battalion (1 SIR). What started as (NS). The officers and NCOs (non- equality.
a battalion logo was later adopted commissioned officers) from 2 SIR
as the identity for the whole SAF. were among the core of instructors
selected to train the NS recruits.
Inaugurated on 1 July 1989, the Their experience in actual
SAF Flag had the SAF Crest operational situations (Indonesian
emblazoned on the bottom right Confrontation) provided an
hand corner of the State Flag. It important base for producing our
symbolised for the first time, the own corps of commanders and
Army, Navy and Air Force working trainers.
together as an integrated force. By
operating as a whole system, the OATH OF ALLEGIANCE (also
SAF’s capability was multiplied known as the Affirmation of
manifold as compared to if the Allegiance)
Army, Navy and Air Force were to
function individually. Consecrated
at the 1989 SAF Day Parade, the
new flag was handed over to then
Chief of General Staff, LT GEN
Winston Choo by the late
President Wee Kim Wee.

The SAF Crest comprises the National Service is the duty that
inscription, “Tentera Singapura” every male citizen must undertake
(Singapore Armed Forces) upon attaining the age of 18. It is
encircling the State Crest. This for the serviceman to swear
symbolises the protection and allegiance to Singapore. The
preservation of the values of serviceman swears to his
democracy, peace, progress, commitment to be loyal to the
justice and equality represented in country, to be ethical, disciplined
the State Crest.

Our Beginnings 13

and to defend the country with his life.

On the day of enlistment, he is required to take the Oath of Allegiance to the
Republic of Singapore.

The Oath of Allegiance is as follow:

I, having entered the service of the Republic of Singapore under the
Enlistment Act, (Cap 93), do solemnly swear, sincerely and truly declare
and affirm that I will:

On the day of 1. Bear true faith and allegiance to the Republic of Singapore.
enlistment, they 2. Protect and defend the Republic of Singapore bravely and intelligently,
are required to
take the Oath of with virtue and honour, not sparing my life blood into so,
Allegiance to the 3. To my last breath be devoted to the people, the country and the
Republic of
Singapore. Government of the Republic of Singapore.
4. Be loyal to the country and the Government of the Republic of Singapore
5. Be ready at the order of the Government, to rise up to the defence of the

Republic of Singapore
6. Be honourable, brave, disciplined and vigilant;
7. Obey the laws of the Republic of Singapore and comply with the orders

of my commanders; and
8. Strictly safeguard and preserve State Secrets and Official Information

and never disclose them.

CODE OF CONDUCT

On 18 July 1967, the Code of Conduct was promulgated by the then
Defence Minister of Singapore, Dr Goh Keng Swee. The code had been
initially researched and drafted by a Jesuit Priest named Father Terence
J. Sheridan.

This code was justified for two reasons: Professional efficiency and the
relation between the Armed Forces and Society. The code is necessary
to spell out in explicit terms for the guidance of the armed forces to
establish high standards of behaviour. It then ensures sense of dignity
and purpose prevails throughout the Army.

14 Our Beginnings

It is a set of rules which govern the daily conduct and behaviour of a serviceman. It is a constant
reminder of the Core Values of Loyalty to Country, Discipline, Professionalism and Ethics and
provide the moral compass in the serviceman’s daily dealings.
The Six Rules of Conduct are:
1. We always honour our Nation. We will do everything to uphold it and nothing to disgrace it.
2. At all times, we must bear in mind that we are the protector of our citizens.
3. We are loyal to the Armed Forces and we take pride in our unit, our uniform, our discipline, our

work, our training and ourselves.
4. We must be exemplary in our conduct. We respect others, and by our conduct and bearing

win the respect of others. We are courageous but not reckless.
5. We are devoted to duty but not to ourselves.
6. We guard our weapons as we guard secrets.

SAF PLEDGE

We, Members of the Singapore Armed Forces,
do solemnly and sincerely pledge that:

We will always bear true faith and allegiance to the
President

and the Republic of Singapore.
We will always support and defend the

Constitution.
We will preserve
and protect the honour
and independence of our country with our lives.

The SAF Pledge is part of the Organizational Statement of Belief and it is for the members of the
SAF to reaffirm their loyalty and commitment as individuals to the orgnisation in the defence of
the nation.

Our Beginnings 15

SAF CORE VALUES Loyalty to Country is what
commits us as citizens to protect
The SAF core values define the and defend our nation. The nation
character of the SAF. They bind represents our homeland; all that
our people together. They are the is cherished by us, our family and
inner voices, the sources of our way of life. We have a
strength, and the derivations of responsibility to protect the
self-control, which are seen as the nation. Loyalty is vital for the SAF
basis for today’s military. because its mission is to defend
the nation and, if need be for us to
The SAF core In Sep’86 under the Institute of sacrifice our lives for Singapore.
values are the Excellence (i.e. SAFTI) concept,
inner voices, the the idea of a common value system Leadership is being able to
sources of was mooted and the SAF seven influence and motivate one’s
strength, and the core values were formulated. The followers, to imbue them with trust
derivations of orginal implementation strategy and confidence in us so that they
self-control. was to introduce it to the Officer will carry out a mission confidently
Corps and allow the natural and to their best ability. Leaders
cascading effect to influence the achieve this by demonstrating
rank and file. In July ’96 the SAF sound knowledge, as well as
core values were established as abilities such as being able to
the common core values for all communicate with their followers.
Services in the SAF, regardless of Good leaders lead by example,
rank, vocation or service status. exude personal presence and
display active involvement. The
The seven core values are: defence of the nation can only be
1. Loyalty to Country assured by commanders who are
2. Leadership competent to lead, excel and
3. Discipline inspire others to give their best to
4. Professionalism the nation.
5. Fighting Spirit
6. Ethics Discipline in the SAF is obedience
7. Care for Soldiers of orders, and the timely and
accurate execution of assigned
tasks. This is achieved through
tough training geared towards
operational readiness and combat
effectiveness. The essence of
discipline is doing what we have
to, even when it is difficult and

16 Our Beginnings

painful, and doing it the best we can. obstacles and achieve our mission
Discipline means inner strength, with continued will and motivation
control, mental stamina, physical despite all odds.
toughness and perseverance. A high
standard of discipline must be Ethics is exemplary conduct and
maintained to train soldiers to moral strength. It enables us to
withstand fear and tension. know what is right from wrong and
Disciplined soldiers can be keep to it. It wil help us handle
depended on. ethical problems which arise out of
a war and in peacetime. For example,
Professionalism in the SAF is we must be honest and accurate in
proficiency, competency and our report writing, have integrity in
reliability in all we do. This would our dealing with others, and not
involve having a sound misuse our position against anyone.
knowledge of what we have to do Ethics will also ensure we do not
and doing it well. We know our act against our country and are loyal
roles and carry them out well. It is to its law and constitution. Such
a continual strive for excellence thrustwortiness and uprightness of
which rejects complacency. In the character must be unshakable for
SAF, it also incorporates and the SAF.
emphasises a sense of duty and
service, which compels everyone Care for soldiers is the genuine
to train hard and give their best. It concern that we have for the well-
is this sense of professionalism being of those in our command. It is
which bonds the SAF together in training soliders so well that they
teamwork to excel in all we do, to can protect themselves and survive
serve with pride, honour and in battle. This is the philosophy of
integrity. more sweat in peacetime and less
blood in war. At the same time it is
Fighting spirit is the tenacity to also ensuring the provision of
succeed in whatever we do. In the service support so that soliders are
SAF particularly, it is marked by propely equipped, trained and fit to
determination, aggressiveness fit a battle. Care is absolutely
and perseverance, the spirit of a essential for cohesion, team spirit
fighting fit defence force. Fighting and ultimately combat
spirit makes us courageous, bold effectiveness. Commanders who
and decisive, with the necessary care for the training, morale and
aggression to engage decisively discipline of their troops can be
in a battle and quickly put an end sure they have a fighting fit force
to it. Fighting spirit is also the at their hands. They can also be
dedication,stamina and endurance sure of their loyalty. Care for
which enable us to overcome soliders should also extend to the
families of the soliders.

Our Beginnings 17



Military Etiquette

and Decorum Military Etiquette and Decorum
Correct Use of Titles
Commissioned Officers
Warrant Officers
Specialists
National Servicemen
Retired Personnel
Paying of Compliments
SAF Hand Salute
Origin of Salute
Whom to Salute
When to Salute
Paying of Compliments by Sentries
Saluting in Groups
When not to salute
Courtesies to Individual
Two or more Officers together
Position of Honour
Paying of Compliments during
National Anthem
State & Regimental Colours
Reveille & Retreat
Compliments to the President/
Cabinet Ministers & Members of
Parliament and cars flying National
Flag
Cars of CDF and Service Chiefs
In Public Conveyances
Behavior in Civilian Dress
Standing up as a Sign of Respect
Social Etiquette
Correct Speech
Conversation
Attitude Towards Ladies
Shaking Hands



MILITARY ETIQUETTE AND of the same profession.
DECORUM
Demonstrating customs and
Military Etiquette would refer to
how military personnel conduct courtesies in day-to-day military life
themselves. It prescribes the ways
soldiers interact with each other. involves two aspects: first, the

Military courtesy is essentially no customs and courtesies which are
different from courtesy in civilian
life. Military courtesy is good observed in the work place or duty
manners and politeness in dealing
with other people. Courteous area, and second, the social customs
behaviour provides a basis for
developing good human relations. and courtesies of military life. Military courtesy is
The distinction between civilian
and military courtesy is that CORRECT USE OF TITLES good manners
military courtesy was developed and politeness in
in a military atmosphere and has
become the custom of the military Each member of the Army has a dealing with other
service. military rank, Recruit to General, and people.

Most forms of military courtesy this rank becomes his or her military
have some counterpart in civilian
life. For example, we train soldiers title by force of regulation and
to say “Sir” or “Ma’am” when
talking to a senior. It is considered custom. In official documents a
good manners for a younger
person to say “Sir” or “Ma’am” member’s rank, or title, always
when speaking to an older person.
The use of the word “Sir” is also accompanies his or her name.
common in the business world, in
the address of a letter, and in any COMMISSIONED OFFICERS
well-ordered institution.
Lieutenant is addressed officially as
Military courtesy is not a one-way “Lieutenant”. The adjective
street. Enlisted personnel are “Second” is not used except in
expected to be courteous to written communication. The same
officers and officers are expected principle also holds for other ranks.
to return the courtesy. Mutual In conversation and in unofficial
respect is a vital part of military correspondence, Brigadier General,
courtesy. Major General and Lieutenant
Military courtesy is the respect Generals are usually referred to and
shown to each other by members addressed as “General”. Lieutenant
Colonels are addressed as
“Colonel”.

Military Etiquette and Decorum 21

“Ma’am” is used in addressing a short) and Warrant Officers as
female officer under the same “Encik”.
circumstances when addressing
a male officer as “Sir”. SPECIALISTS

WARRANT OFFICERS Company Sergeant Major is
addressed as “Sergeant Major”.
Since the SAF Warrant Officer First & Second Sergeants are
addressed as “Sergeant” while a
ranks were introduced as the “Corporal” a “Corporal”. Officers
generally address Privates and
pinnacle rank for Non Privates First Class by their names.
The full titles of enlistees are used
Commissioned Officers (NCO), in official communication.

most of the Warrant Officers were NATIONALSERVICEMEN

Regimental Sergeant Majors Upon completion of their full time
National Service, all NSmen are
(RSM) and they were addressed liable for up to 40 days of active
service every year, up to a period
Army RSM is as “Encik” (Mister). of 10 years. The title NS is
appended to the rank previously
addressed as In 1992, Warrant Officers began held while serving full time national
taking over appointments normally service, e.g. LTA (NS) Kenneth Lin.
Sergeant Major of
RETIRED PERSONNEL
the Army. Division held by officers such as Platoon
Individuals retired from the SAF,
RSM as Division Commander, Company Second-in- not on active service duty are
authorised to use their titles
Sergeant Major. Command, Officer commanding in socially, and in connection with
Training Schools as well as commercial enterprises, e.g.
Formation RSM as Training Officer, Quartermaster, LTC (RET) Gerald Koh.
Formation Motor & Transport Officer etc. It
PAYING OF COMPLIMENTS
Sergeant Major. became usual to be addressed as
Paying of compliments is a form of
Brigade RSM, as “Sir” but no salutes are rendered greeting between members of a
Brigade Sergeant to them. Army RSM is addressed uniform group. It is a sign of respect
Major. Battalion as Sergeant Major of the Army. the members have for one another
RSM, as RSM (in Division RSM as Division and for the organisation they
short). Sergeant Major. Formation RSM belong to. In the SAF, a greeting
as Formation Sergeant Major. always follows after a salute is

Brigade RSM, as Brigade Sergeant

Major. Battalion RSM, as RSM (in

22 Military Etiquette and Decorum

rendered. It is customary that a British “Open Palm” Salute
junior shall salute and greet a
senior officer. A salute is normally would raise their right arm to show A salute is
rendered with the right hand. In that it was not on the sword hilt. normally
the case of a person who through Greeting someone without raising rendered with
physical inability is unable to do your right arm could potentially the right hand.
so, he will salute with the left mean that you were about to attack. In the case of
hand. During the days of the Borgias, a person who
assassination by using a knife or through
SAF HAND SALUTE dagger was common. When physical
greeting someone the right hand inability is
On 1 September 1976, the SAF was raised to show that the person unable to do
adopted a new “Hand Salute” was not concealing a dagger. so, he will
instead of the open palm to the salute with the
right forehead salute inherited Saluting with the open hand left hand.
from the British. The new salute is indicates friendly intentions and
smarter and less awkward in that can be traced back to the middle
the palm is rotated 90 degrees ages when travellers also held their
forward, palm downward, fingers open hands up in order to indicate
together and shading the right eye that they had no weapons in their
from the sun. possession capable of injuring
others. It also dates back several
ORIGIN OF SALUTE hundred years to the days when
fighting men wore armour. Thus,
Saluting is one of the most when outside the safety of walled
common and basic forms of castles, people often had to defend
military courtesy. It is basically an themselves. Therefore, as the knight
exchange of greetings between rode through the forest, he rode with
military and/or uniformed services his hand near his sword. When he
personnel. met someone he recognized as a
friend, he raised his empty hand to
The history of saluting has many show he was not challenging the
plausible origins. Some believe person. This action was a sign of trust
that during the “Age of Chivalry” and respect. The present day salute
when two knights met, they raised
their visors to expose their faces.
This allowed the knights to
recognise their allies from their
enemies. The raising of the visor
was always performed with the
right hand. During the “Middle
Ages”, men wore heavy capes to
conceal their swords. When two
men greeted each other they

Military Etiquette and Decorum 23

is a symbol of greeting, of mutual Police Officers and Military
trust and confidence, initiated by Officers of other armies stationed
the junior in rank, but with no loss in Singapore would be accorded
of dignity on either side. the same compliments as that
given to SAF Officers.
Saluting with the There are other forms of salutes
open hand besides the hand salute such as the WHEN TO SALUTE
indicates friendly sword salute, the rifle salute and gun
intentions and salute. As these salutes signify Normally, a salute is required of all
can be traced gestures of friendship and Army personnel when meeting or
back to the comradeship. recognising persons entitled to
middle ages. the salute. The salute is rendered
WHOM TO SALUTE when the person to be saluted is
within recognition distance, which
All servicemen will salute is about 30 paces and the salute is
officers senior in rank in the excuted from a distance of six
course of meeting them or before paces. The first position of the
addressing them on duty or on salute is held until the salute is
parade. The officers are obliged returned. While running, a person
to return the salute. Salutes shall render a greeting inplace of a
must be executed smartly. salute. Salutes are exchanged by
Saluting is permissible while in individuals whether indoors or
any form of military dress, with outdoors. Officers are expected to
or without headdress. be prompt and militarily correct in
returning the salutes of their
Subordinates will salute their subordinates.
immediate superiors at their first
meeting. Salutes on second and The salute is rendered only once
subsequent encounters are if the senior remains in the
discretionary. immediate vicinity and no
conversation take place. If
Servicemen are to salute the conversation takes place, the
National Cadet Corps Officers junior salutes again when either
when meeting such officers in the leaves.
course of official duties.

24 Military Etiquette and Decorum

When reporting, the person formation salute officers of higher
making the report salutes first.
rank by bringing the body of troop
When reporting to an officer,
salutes are exchanged both when to attention before saluting. In the
reporting and leaving. If reporting
indoors, a junior removes his field under combat or simulated
headdress, knocks, and enters
when told to do so. Upon entering, combat conditions, the unit is not
the junior halts not closer than brought to attention when the Salutes are
two paces from the officer,
salutes, and reports stating his commander salutes. An individual exchanged by
purpose after his greeting. When
all business has been transacted, in formation comes to attention or individuals
the junior salutes and leaves after stand-at-ease when addressed by a
the salute has been returned. One senior officer. whether
does not sit down in a senior
officer’s office unless invited to indoors or
do so.
On the approach of an officer senior outdoors.
When driving or riding one should
not salute, as it will interfere with in rank, a group of individuals not Officers are
safe driving/riding practices. in formation is called to attention by expected to be
the first person seeing him. All come
PAYING OF COMPLIMENTS smartly to attention and salute. prompt and
BY SENTRIES
militarily
Sentries on duty armed with rifle
sling around their neck (by means When actively engaged on a detail, correct in
of rifle extension slings) will come
to “Attention” and bring their rifle individuals do not salute. The returning the
to “High Port” position when person in charge of the detail
paying compliments to officers – salutes for the entire group. salutes of their
entering or leaving the camp. However, when an officer addresses subordinates.

SALUTING IN GROUPS an individual in the detail, he comes

Individuals in formation do not to attention and at the termination
render or return salutes except at
the command, “Present Arms.” of the conversation salute is
The individual in charge salutes
for the entire formation. exchanged.
Commanders of organisations
which are not part of a larger WHEN NOT TO SALUTE

In general, one does not salute under
the following conditions:

1. Indoors, except when reporting
to an officer;

2. engaged in routine work when
the salute would interfere;

3. carrying articles in both hands or
being otherwise occupied as to
make saluting impracticable
(where possible, articles should
be carried in their left hand);

Military Etiquette and Decorum 25

4. the rendition of the salute is
obviously inappropriate;

5. the person is a prisoner;

6. riding in a public conveyance;

7. when actively engaged in present to rise by the Master-of-
athletics; Ceremony.

On the approach 8. inside places of worship, When accompanying a senior, a
of an officer theatres, or places of public junior walks or rides on the senior’s
senior in rank, a assemblage; left. An exception to this rule is
group of when inspecting troops, the
individuals not in 9. and when in formation, unless Junior in rank walks to the right of
formation is the salutation is ordered by the the senior with the senior nearest
called to commander of the formation. the troops being inspected. In all
attention by the cases when walking, the junior
first person COURTESIES TO INDIVIDUAL keeps in step with the senior.
seeing him.
Although normal courtesies are In entering an automobile or small
expected when an officer enters boat, the junior enters first and is
an area for inspection, when an followed by the remainder of the
officer enters a room, those at party in inverse order in rank. The
work or play do not come to proceeding is not a hard and fast
attention unless spoken to by rule. In order to prevent any
the officer. A junior, when member of the party from climbing
addressed by a senior, comes to over another, discretion will be
attention except in the used in order that when seated in
transaction of routine business the vehicle or boat, the senior is
between individuals at work. on the right.

When a senior officer comes into Military courtesy requires that
a room, attention will be called by intermediate commanders be
the first person seeing him. informed of instructions issued to
their subordinates by anyone
Attention is not normally called at outside of that unit.
social functions except when the
affair is official in nature and the TWO OR MORE OFFICERS
guests have assembled and are TOGETHER
awaiting the entrance of the
Commanding Officer or Guest of While moving in a group, the most
Honour. In most such events, an senior will pay compliments to the
announcement will be made for all officers. A salute made to two or

26 Military Etiquette and Decorum

more officers will be returned by raising and flag lowering
only one officer – the most senior ceremony, there should not be
one present. any vehicle movement.

POSITION OF HONOUR 2. When Indoors When
Servicemen walking within a accompanying
Running through our customs and building (eg. within the MINDEF a senior, a
courtesies of the service, social as Complex) should stop and stand junior walks or
well as official is the principle that at attention and remain still rides on the
the right side of a person or thing during the raising and lowering senior’s left. An
is the position of honour. of the State Flag exception to this
outdoors. rule is when
“The Right of the Line” was the inspecting
critical side in ancient battle STATE & REGIMENTAL troops, the
formations and is the place of COLOURS Junior in rank
honour in ceremonies today. walks to the
All ranks in uniform will salute when right of the
In walking with a senior or riding the State and Regimental Colours senior with the
in a vehicle the junior is on the are being cased or uncased, or when senior nearest
left. The national flag is carried or the Colours pass their immediate the troops
displayed on the right of all front. being
others. The right is the point of REVEILLEAND RETREAT inspected.
honour in heraldry.
All ranks in uniform when not in
This practice probably originates formation (under the orders of a
from the days when gentlemen commander), will salute when the
carried swords for protection. The reveille tune (flag raising) and retreat
stronger swordsman was given tune (flag lowering) are played. There
the position of honour (the right) should not be any vehicle movement
so that his sword arm would be during the sounding of these calls.
unhampered for a fast draw.

PAYING OF COMPLIMENTS
DURING NATIONAL ANTHEM

1. When Outdoors
When the State Flag is raised
or lowered, all ranks in uniform
when not in formation (under
the orders of a commander),
will salute facing the direction
of the flag. When under
command, only the commander
will salute. During the flag

Military Etiquette and Decorum 27

COMPLIMENTS TO THE respect to his seniors as he would
PRESIDENT / CABINET when he is in uniform. While
MINISTERS & MEMBERS OF saluting is not necessary when one
PARLIAMENT AND CARS is in civilian dress, the proper
FLYING NATIONAL FLAG greetings should be given.

All ranks in All servicemen in uniform are to STANDING UP AS A SIGN OF
uniform will pay compliments to the President, RESPECT
salute when the Cabinet Ministers and Members of
State and Parliament. In addition, servicemen Standing up when a senior enters
Regimental in uniform are to salute when cars a room is a sign of respect. When
Colours are flying the State Flag (including in group, the most senior will call
being cased or those from Foreign Embassies), the rest to attention, if the senior
uncased, or passes their immediate front. is an officer. When a lecture is in
when the Colours process, personnel in the class
pass their CARS OF CDF AND SERVICE should brace up and keep still if
immediate front. CHIEFS. the room is called to attention.
This rule need not apply on
All servicemen are to salute when persons who are engaged in work
the staff cars of CDF and the that cannot be stopped e.g. When
Service Chiefs pass them. These in the midst of operating a tool or
staff cars will have the “Star Plates” machine, or when the senior had
mounted in front and rear of the been accorded similar respect
vehicles, indicating that the CDF/ earlier. It is also a sign of respect
Service Chiefs are in the vehicle. for a subordinate to stand up when
There is no requirement to salute a superior speaks to him.
when the “Star Plates” are covered Discretion is allowed in the case
as it denotes that CDF/Service where the senior is an immediate
Chiefs are not in the vehicle. superior.

IN PUBLIC CONVEYANCES SOCIAL ETIQUETTE

In public area or events, such as Avoid free expression resulting to
sporting events, meetings, or hostilities. Avoid cliques. It should
when a salute would be be a constant aim to broaden
inappropriate or impractical, acquaintances. Social obligations
salutes between individuals need should be repaid but done strictly
not be rendered. in accordance with one’s means
without excuses for simplicity or
BEHAVIOR IN CIVILIAN austerity.
DRESS
Members of the Army are expected
Whether in civilian dress or to be gentlemen. He must behave
uniform, a serviceman will accord like one. One of the first thing a

28 Military Etiquette and Decorum

gentleman does is not to offend ATTITUDE TOWARDS LADIES
others. Crude conduct such as
spitting and belching in public, to Nothing so quickly discloses the One of the
mention only two of such presence or absence of manners greatest assets
undesirable habits, should be left in a man as his attitude towards of any man is his
with the ill-bred. A gentleman is ladies. One of the established ability for correct,
thoughtful of others. His elders he rules of good society is that simple and
would invariably address as “Sir” women deserve special dignified speech,
unless, of course, they happen to consideration and protection. coupled with a
be junior to him in rank. They should be shielded from capacity for
unpleasant or embarrassing interesting and
CORRECT SPEECH situations, assisted when intelligent
conversation.
One of the greatest assets of
any man is his ability for confronted with difficulties and on
correct, simple and dignified all occasions should be treated
speech, coupled with a well with respect.
capacity for interesting and
intelligent conversation.Correct SHAKING HANDS
pronunciation is a foremost
requirement. If in doubt avoid its The handshake is executed with a
use until after access to a firm, straight forward clasp of the
dictionary. Next is enunciation hands but no strenuous squeezing.
– clearly, distinctly and This is particularly to be observed
correctly. Avoid slang and when shaking hands with a lady. It
profanity. They indicate a poorly is good to know and understand the
versed individual and tend to various race culture and practices
perpetuate a broader deficient in this matter too.
speaking community.

CONVERSATION

There should be reciprocity in the
conversations between military
personnel. One should avoid
abruptness in dismissing efforts
of others to start the conversation.
Those who think before they
speak are not apt to blunder.
Engaging in intelligent
conversation requires, among
other things a broad contact with
literature, and familiarity with
current events.

Military Etiquette and Decorum 29



Colours, Standard
and Pennant

Introduction

History of Military Colours

Colours in the SAF

State and Regimental
Colours in the SAF

- SAF State Colours
- SAFTI Military Institute

State Colours

Regimental Colours

SAFTI Military Institute
Regimental Colours

Headquarters Commandos
1st Commando Battalion

Infantry
- 1 SIR
- 2 SIR
- 3 SIR
- 4 SIR
- 5 SIR
- 6 SIR

Guards
- 1 Guards Battalion
- 3 Guards Battalion

Armour
- 40 SAR
- 41 SAR
- 42 SAR
- 46 SAR

Headquarters, Singapore
Artillery

Headquarters, Combat
Engineers

Headquarters, Signals &
Command Systems

Headquarters, Medical
Corps

Headquarters, Maintenance and
Engineering Support
Headquarters, Supply and
Transport
SAF Provost Unit
The President Standard
Presidential Lance Guard Pennant
Regimental Band Banner
Casing and Uncasing of Colours
Consecration of Colours
Compliments and Salutes
Lower Colours – Salutes
Point of War
Transporting of Colours
Care and Custody of Colours
Withdrawal from Service
Replacement of Colours
Retirement of Colours

INTRODUCTION HISTORY OF MILITARY
COLOURS
At about the beginning of the
seventeenth century when The awarding of Colours to military The Colours
armies were adopting the units is an established practice of were carried
regimental system, it was many National Armed Forces and the into battle in
decided to assign colours (using Singapore Armed Forces is no the centre front
the word in its conventional exception. Colours are frequently rank where
sense) to each regiment. It was paraded during auspicious and they could
logical, then, for the “Red significant occasions. easily be seen
Regiment,” for example, to carry and recognised
a red flag for identification in Traditionally, our Colours are and to act as a
battle. Hence military flags paraded on National Day, SAF Day guide and
became known as “Colours.” and on Anniversary Day parades, rallying point.
Another explanation of the term with proper Escort Party and Guard
is that early heraldic flags bore of Honour Contingents. But other
the Colours of a commander in than to add to the pomp and
precisely the same sense as used pageantry of these events, Colours
in horse racing today. have a history and tradition dating
as far back as the Middle Ages, and
On the other side of the world, in a significance which is maintained
about 1650, the first of the even till to-date.
Manchus was experimenting with
a new concept of military Colours originated as banners of
organization. He divided his lords and barons at a time when it
troops into four groups - the was a tradition for fighting men to
Yellows, Reds, Whites and Blues. rally around their leader’s banner.
Each were identified by a coloured The reason for its existence arose
banner. Later he doubled the from the need to have some rank of
number of units, having each new distinction between tribes and
unit take one of the original four armies, and a conspicuous rallying
colours and adding a border.

So the Colours originated as a
means of battlefield identification
and continued to perform this
function for many years. Modern
armies now carry Colours only in
ceremonies

Colours, Standard and Pennant 33

point in battle. In war between and recognised and to act as a
tribes, for example, the badge of guide and rallying point.
each tribal chief was hoisted onto Originally, when Colours were
a pole so that it could be seen at a carried in companies, they were
distance, and not just in close borne by the youngest officer of
combat. the company, who was known as
the “Ensign”. As the importance
Later, these became flags of of a victory was generally gauged
by the number of guns and stands
distinctive Colours in a battlefield of Colours that were captured, the
Colours party became obvious
In the SAF, for marking positions. And targets and the scene of the most
through constant usage, the term bitter hand-to-hand fighting.

Colours are “Colours” is often taken to mean With a view to give the ensigns
some local protection, the rank of
awarded to units all classes of military flags which “Colours Sergeant” was
introduced in 1813. The Royal
in commemoration are known differently as Warrant in respect of this stated,
“It is His Royal Highness’ pleasure
of their standards, guidons and banners. that the duty of attending the
Colours on the field shall be
achievements in In the past when Colours were performed by the Sergeants”
the field of carried on active service, they
combat, training, stood as a rallying point of the These Escorts to the Colours were
administrative regiment, and the scene of its last formed by five Colours Sergeants,
efficiency and stand. As long as the soldiers armed with half pikes, and were
service to the could see their own flag flying chosen from the senior and
bravest sergeants, as they had to
community. high, they knew all was well. It is a stand in the most exposed places
in the field of battle. The Colours
powerful factor in maintaining Party was in the past expected to
fight till death to defend the
morale. Many would die just to Colours. For the same symbolic
reason, today, the Colours (carried
keep the Colours flying high. by a junior Officer with an escort
of two Sergeants and a Warrant
Similarly, to capture the Colours of Officer) are paraded in the centre
of the Squad when on the march.
the enemy was a sign of great

courage.

The Colours were carried into
battle in the centre front rank
where they could easily be seen

34 Colours, Standard and Pennant

As warfare progressed Colours Our short history of Colours in the
became unnecessary as a means SAF dates back to 1954. Then, there
of identification and was no more were only two Colours, the Queen’s
carried into the battlefield. Colours and the Singapore
Volunteer Corps Colours. The then
Colours have become the symbol Governor of Singapore, Sir John
of the spirit of a regiment, for they Nicoll, presented both Colours to the
bear the battle honours and Singapore Volunteer Corps on 8th
badges granted to the regiment in July 1954 at the Padang, in
commemoration of the gallant celebration of the centenary of the
deeds performed by its members Volunteer Corps.
from the time it was raised. This
association of Colours with heroic Queens’ Colours, Singapore There are two
deeds has caused them to be types of Colours
regarded with veneration. The fact in the SAF -
that Colours are consecrated known as the
before being taken into use, it State Colours
helps to maintain the atmosphere and the
of veneration, with which they are Regimental
surrounded. Colours.

And although Colours are not Volunteer Corps Colours
carried into battle in the way they
used to be, they still retain all the The Colours were donated by the
tradition, glory, honour, pride and City Council to replace those which
veneration of the past. They are were lost during the fall of Singapore
still paraded and trooped in in 1942.
today’s Armies.
The re-structuring of the Singapore
COLOURS IN THE SAF Volunteer Corps after our
Independence in 1965, saw the
In the SAF, Colours are awarded Corps undertaking a different role
to units in commemoration of their in Singapore, hence both Colours
achievements in the field of were retired.
combat, training, administrative
efficiency and service to the
community. The Colours also help
to promote cohesion, esprit de
corps and instil in the men of the
unit a sense of pride and loyalty.

Colours, Standard and Pennant 35

STATE AND REGIMENTAL Services and SAFTI Military
COLOURS IN THE SAF Institute, it being an
international institution.
Presently, there are two types of Formation and Units would only
Colours in the SAF - known as the be awarded the Regimental
State Colours and the Regimental Colours.
Colours. Regimental Colours are
awarded to the Formation or Units The State Colours incorporate the
about five years after its formation. design of the State Flag with the
They bear the appropriate crests / Service Crest emblazoned at the
logos of the respective Division / bottom right hand corner of the
Formation / Unit. Colours. When placed side by
side, the State Colours and the
Previously, State Colours were Regimental Colours signify the
awarded to Units two years after pride and loyalty of the
they were awarded the Servicemen to their Service /
Regimental Colours. However, in Formation / Unit.
1997 the Armed Forces Council
decided that State Colours
would only be awarded to the

Colours are always consecrated by religious leaders before they are presented by the President
of Singapore. Every year, the SAF State Colours is presented to the Best Combat Unit. This is a
much coveted prize which SAF Units work hard to win. Listed below are units awarded with the
respective State and Regimental Colours:

No Svc / Fmn / Units State Colours Regimental Colours
1. Singapore Armed Forces Awarded on 1 Jul ’97 Awarded on 1 Jul ’69*

2. Republic of Singapore Navy Awarded on 22 Jan ’77*/ Awarded on 22 Jan ’77*
Replaced on 20 Oct ’91
Awarded on 22 Jan ’77*
3. Republic of Singapore Airforce Awarded on 22 Jan ’77*/
Replaced on 20 Oct ’91 Awarded on 16 Jun ’68 /
Replaced on 25 Aug ’95
4. SAF Training Institute Awarded on 3 Oct ’76 / Awarded on 20 Oct ’91
Replaced on 1 Jul ’96

5. HQ Commando

36 Colours, Standard and Pennant

No Svc / Fmn / Units State Colours Regimental Colours

6. 1st Commando Battalion Awarded on 22 Jan ’77* Awarded on 22 Jan ’77

7. 1st Singapore Awarded on 3 Oct ’76/ Awarded on 26 Jul ’61/
Infantry Regiment Replaced on 20 Oct ’91 Replaced on 7 Nov ’82

8. 2nd Singapore Awarded on 3 Oct ’76* Awarded on 3 Oct ’70
Infantry Regiment
Awarded on 3 Oct ’76* Awarded on 23 Jul ’72
9. 3rd Singapore
Infantry Regiment Awarded on 3 Oct ’76* Awarded on 23 Jul ’72

10. 4th Singapore Awarded on 3 Oct ’76* Awarded on 3 Oct ’76
Infantry Regiment
Awarded on 3 Oct ’76* Awarded on 3 Oct ’76/
11. 5th Singapore Awarded on 11 Jun ’83* Replaced on 1 Jul ’05
Infantry Regiment
Awarded on 11 Jun ’83
12. 6th Singapore
Infantry Regiment Awarded on 11 Jun ’83* Awarded on 11 Jun ’83*

13. 1 Guards Battalion Awarded on 6 Nov ’77* Awarded on 6 Nov ’77

14. 3 Singapore Guards Awarded on 6 Nov ’77* Awarded on 6 Nov ’77
Battalion
Awarded on 6 Nov ’77* Awarded on 6 Nov ’77
15. 40 Battalion Singapore
Armoured Regiment Awarded on 20 Oct ’91* Awarded on 20 Oct ’91

16. 41 Battalion Singapore Awarded on 22 Jan ’77*/ Awarded on 22 Jan ’77/
Armoured Regiment Replaced on 20 Oct ’91* Replaced on 20 Oct ’91

17. 42 Battalion Singapore Awarded on 22 Jan ’77* Awarded on 22 Jan ’77/
Armoured Regiment Replaced on 20 Oct ’91

18. 46 Battalion Singapore
Armoured Regiment

19. Headquarters
Singapore Artillery

20. Headquarters Singapore
Combat Engineer

Colours, Standard and Pennant 37

No Svc / Fmn / Units State Colours Regimental Colours
Awarded on 22 Jan ’77* Awarded on 22 Jan ’77/
21. Headquarters Signals & Replaced on 20 Oct ’91
Command Systems Awarded on 1 Jul ’96* Awarded on 1 Jul ’93
Awarded On 1 Jul ’96*
22. Headquarters Awarded on 1 Jul ’93
Medical Corps Awarded on 1 Jul ’93
Awarded on 1 Jul ’93
23. Tengah Airbase Awarded On 1 Jul ’94
Awarded On 1 Jul ’94
24. Paya Lebar Airbase Awarded On 1 Jul ’98
Awarded On 1 Jul ’94
25. Sembawang Airbase
Awarded On 1 Jul ’95
26. Headquarters Fleet
Awarded On 1 Jul ’95
27 Naval Logistics Command Awarded On 1 Jul ’94
Awarded On 1 Jul ’95
28. Coastal Command Awarded On 1 Jul ’96
Awarded On 1 Jul ’97
29. Headquarters Maintenance
and Engineering Support Awarded On 1 Jul ’97
Awarded On 1 Jul ’04
30. Headquarters Supply &
Transport

31. SAF Provost Unit

32. Air Defence Brigade

33. Air Force Systems Brigade

34. Tactical Air Support Command

35. Division Air Defence
Artillery Brigade

36. Naval Diving Unit

37. Changi Air Base

Note: The Colours above are listed in order of protocol. Those indicated with an asterik (*) the
original Colours have been replaced before. However, all the State Colours and the Service Colours
have since been retired during the SAF Day parade on 1 July 1997 at SAFTI MI. Only the
SAF(ARMY), RSN, RSAF and SAFTI MI have retained their State Colours. Hence forth, units
will only be awarded with Regimental Colours.

38 Colours, Standard and Pennant

SAF STATE COLOURS Combat Unit on SAF Day thus the
recipient becomes the custodian of
the Army State Colours for that
particular year.

SAFTI MILITARYINSTITUTE
STATE COLOURS

The SAF State Colours adopts The SAF State
the basic design of the State Flag
with the SAF Crest emblazoned Colours
on it. The SAF State Colours
consists of the State Crest, symbolises the
“TENTERA SINGAPURA” which
means “Singapore Armed pride and
Forces”, the motto of the SAF,
“YANG PERTAMA DAN honour of
UTAMA” meaning “FIRST
AND FOREMOST” and the officers and
laurels of excellence. In its The SAFTI MI State Colours men who have
entirety, the emblem depicts adopts the basic design of the State contributed
victory and merit in all the SAF’s Flag with the SAF Crest with a blue
endeavours. The SAF State scroll entitled “SAFTI MI” towards her
Colours symbolises the pride
and honour of officers and men emblazoned on it. success.
who have contributed towards
her success. Mr Ong Teng Cheong presented the
SAFTI MI State Colours to the
The late President of the Republic Commandant SAFTI MI, BG
of Singapore, Mr Ong Teng Stephen Wong Kong Yip at the SAF
Cheong presented the SAF State Day Parade on 1 July 1996 held at
Colours to the Chief of Army, MG SAFTI Military Institute. The
Han Eng Juan at the SAF Day SAFTI MI State Colours is
Parade on 1 July 1997, held at presented to SAFTI MI as it is
SAFTI Military Institute. The recognised as an international
SAF State Colours is presented military institution.
to the Army as the Colours is also
known as the Army State Colours.
It is a warded to the SAF Best

Colours, Standard and Pennant 39

REGIMENTALCOLOURS The Colours are an embodiment
of the spirit of the Unit. They
represent the pride, honour, and
loyalty of the men. Its significance
cannot be downplayed, but few
can grasp its importance.

The Colours are Viewers of the National Day Parade As shown in the following pages,
an embodiment will definitely notice the group of the SAF Regimental Colours are
of the spirit of the “flags”, referred to as the “Colours arranged in order of Protocol.
unit. They Party”. The most common
represent the misconception is that the “flags” SAFTI MI and Commandos
pride, honour, on parade are simply representing Regimental Colours do not
and loyalty of the the Units. True to a certain extent, observe theorder-by-date-of-
men. but technically wrong. grant arrangement. These Colours
precede SAF’s first Regimental
First of all, the “flags” on parade Colours (1SIR - 27 July 1961),
are actually not “flags” at all, they despite being granted on a later
are Colours. The main difference date.
is that Colours are consecrated at
the presentation ceremony by SAFTI MILITARYINSTITUTE
heads of various religions, but REGIMENTALCOLOURS
flags are not. Other significant
differences include the physical
appearance of the Colours, and the
protocols applied.

Colours are arranged on parade as The retired SAFTI Colours was
per order of protocol. The oldest presented by the then Prime
Colours is placed on the left of the Minister, Mr. Lee Kuan Yew on 16
observer, and the sequence June 1968.
follows, with the youngest Colours
taking the last position on the right. The design of SAFTI Colours is
There are exceptions to this rule in similar to the new one,
the Singapore context, such as the comprising the torch, sword,
placement of the Regimental laurels and streamer except that
Colours of the Commandos.

40 Colours, Standard and Pennant

the motto has changed. The HEADQUARTERS, COMMANDOS
former motto was “Toward
Excellence”. It is thus a The HQ Commandos Formation
reflection of our military heritage
and a link with our past by Colours has its emblem centrally
having a similar emblem. The red
background colour signifies placed above the Commando’s
excellence and centrally placed
is the SAFTI emblem. The Torch motto “For Honour and Glory”. This In recognition of
signifies the pivotal role played
by SAFTI in moulding and motto exhorts the Commandos to their outstanding
educating its Military Officers.
The Sword signifies the undertake any mission that is contribution in
SAFTI’s role in training
Singapore’s best young men in assigned for the honour and glory the successful
the art of warfare. Each laurel of the Nation and Formation.
has 66 leaves which signify the rescue operation
year (1966) in which SAFTI
was established. Her Motto The field in yellow of the Colours of the SQ 117
“To Lead, To Excel, To signifies the elite status of the hijack, HQ CDO
Overcome” captures the Commandos. The Sword with silver was presented
challenges of military leadership. wings on either side indicates the with a streamer.
The values of the SAF Officers’
Creed are also reflected within Infantry with airborne capability.
this proud declaration.
The laurels of excellence surround

this.

The then Prime Minister Mr Goh

Chok Tong presented the The Regimental Colours was
presented to HQ Commandos by the
Institute Colours to late President of the Republic of
Singapore, Mr Wee Kim Wee on the
Commandant SAFTI MI, BG Retirement and Presentation of
Colours Parade on 20 October 1991
Chin Chow Yoon on the Opening at Khatib Camp.

Ceremony of SAFTI MI on 25

August 1995 at SAFTI MI

Parade Square.

In recognition of the successful
rescue of the hostages on
Singapore Airlines Flight SQ 117 on
27 March 1991, HQ Commandos
were awarded a streamer (Medal of

Colours, Standard and Pennant 41