ourArmyCustomsTraditions

Valour) on 20 October 1991 by the earlier version of the SAF emblem
late President of the Republic of on their Regimental Colours. The
Singapore Mr Wee Kim Wee. respective Roman numerals are
placed on the top left hand corner
1st COMMANDO BATTALION of each Colours. The SAF
emblems on these Colours are also
“For Honour and The figure “1” embroidered in rendered in different colours. The
Glory”. This silver can be found at the top field background differs in colour
motto exhorts the left quarter of the field indicating as a mark of differentiation
Commandos to the 1st Commando Battalion. between regiments. They are as
undertake any The motto “For Honour and follows:
mission that is Glory” is similar to her
assigned for the Formation, which exhorts the 1 SIR - Yellow
honour and glory Commandos to undertake any 2 SIR - Red
of the Nation and mission that is assigned for the 3 SIR - Green
Formation. honour and glory of the Nation, 4 SIR - Blue
Formation and 1st Commando 5 SIR - Brown
Battalion. 6 SIR - Purple

1 SIR

The Regimental Colours was The 1st Battalion Singapore
presented to 1st Commando Infantry Regiment (1SIR) was
Battalion by the late President awarded the Queen Colours and
of the Republic of Singapore, Dr. the Regimental Colours on 26 July
B.H. Sheares on the SAF 1961 by His Excellency, the late
Presentation and Trooping of Yang Di-Pertuan Negara, Encik
Colours Parade on 22 January Yusof Bin Ishak at the Ulu
1977 at the Jurong Town Pandan Camp (where she was then
Stadium. located). In 1964, at the height of
Indonesian Confrontation, the
INFANTRY Battalion took an active role in
military operations in Sabah from
The Infantry Formation uses the

42 Colours, Standard and Pennant

November 1964 to April 1965 and 2 SIR
on its return the Unit was
deployed along the west coast of This Battalion was formed on 19 The Infantry unit
Johore in West Malaysia. In August 1962. The Battalion played
addition, she helped the Police in an active role during the uses the earlier
the maintenance of law and order version of the
during the civil commotion in 1964.
On 3 October 1976 at Toa Payoh confrontation in the State of Johore. SAF emblem on
Stadium, the original Queen She was later deployed in the State their Regimental
Colours was retired and the
Battalion was presented with the of Sabah for a tour of operational Colours. The
State Colours by the late President
of the Republic of Singapore, Dr. duties, before returning to Singapore respective roman
B. H. Sheares.
in February 1966. numerals are
Due to wear and tear, the 1 SIR
Regimental Colours was retired and placed on the top
a new one presented on 7
November 1982, by the then Chief The Battalion was presented with left hand corner
of General Staff, MG Winston W. its Regimental Colours by then of their
L. Choo, during the Battalion’s Minister for Defence, Dr. Goh Keng
25th Anniversary. The field Swee on 3 October 1970. The field respective
background in yellow colour
denotes that 1 SIR is the most background in red colour denotes Colours.
senior infantry battalion.
that 2 SIR is the second infantry
They were also the first to receive
their cap badges, which is the battalion.
current SAF emblem. The sleeve
of the 1 SIR Regimental Colours is 3 SIR
crimson. This was most likely a
result of the British Army’s
practice of having red sleeves for
their Sovereign and Regimental
Colours.

Colours, Standard and Pennant 43

Jn

4 SIR November 1968. In 1970, the
Battalion was chosen to represent
The efficiency of The 3 and 4 SIR Battalions were Singapore in the first Five Nations
both Battalions formed on 24 August 1967 from Exercise code-named “Bersatu
were first tested the first batch of National Padu”. The Battalion was
during the civil Servicemen who were born in 1949. presented with its Regimental
disturbances in The efficiency of both Battalions Colours on 3 October 1976 at Toa
May 1969. were first tested during the civil Payoh Stadium by the late
disturbances in May 1969, when President Dr. B. H. Sheares.
they were called upon to assist
the Police in restoring law and 5 SIR
order. Both the Battalions were
presented their Regimental Brown considered the fifth senior
Colours on 23 July 1972 at Bedok colour, thus the Colours of 5 SIR
Camp I by the late President Dr. B. has the field background in brown
H. Sheares. with the Roman numeral figure “V”
on the top left of the field indicating
Green being the third senior the Battalion.
colour, Colours of 3 SIR have the
field background in green with the 6 SIR
Roman numeral figure “III” on the
top left of the field, indicating the This Battalion was formed on 1
Battalion. April 1969. The Battalion has since
its formation demonstrated its
Blue is considered the fourth capabilities with a high standard
senior colour, and the Colours of of training and administration. The
4 SIR have the field background in
blue with the Roman numeral
figure “IV” on the top left of the
field indicating the Battalion.

This Battalion was formed on 1

44 Colours, Standard and Pennant

Battalion was presented with its Their insignia features a bayonet
Regimental Colours on 3 October
1976 at Toa Payoh Stadium by the and laurels, which symbolise the
late President Dr. B. H. Sheares.
Purple being the sixth senior superior skills as Infantry soldiers.
colour, the Colours of 6 SIR have
the field background in purple On the left and right are wings,
with the Roman numeral figure
“VI” on the top left of the field representing their heliborne
indicating the Battalion.
capabilities. These charges appear
Due to wear and tear, the
Battalion was presented with a in gold, associated with loyalty to
new Regimental Colours on 01
July 2005 at SAFTI MI by the nation, devotion to their duty
President S. R. Nathan.
and dedication to their tasks.
Note:
Accordingly, there was a 7th Bn. The maroon field background
Singapore Infantry Regiment and
an 8th Bn. Singapore Infantry represents brotherhood within the
Regiment with a Regimental
Colours each. These Battalions formation. The motto of the Guards
were eventually converted into
Guards Battalions. The SAFGU Formation is “Ready to Strike” and
Colours were retired in 1983, when
the new Guards Formation was is inscribed on a gold scroll on their The motto of the
formed.
insignia.
GUARDS
Guards formation
The Regimental Colours of these
Battalions do not amend the 1 Guards Battalion was renamed is “Ready to
design or colours of their Insignia.
They appear exactly as it is but from the Singapore Armed Forces Strike”
with the addition of Roman
numerals “I” and “III” in gold on 1 GUARDS BATTALION
the respective Regimental
Colours. The fringes are 3 GUARDS BATTALION
respectively yellow for the 1st and
green for the 3rd. Guards Unit (SAFGU) in 1977.
The 7th Bn. Singapore Infantry
Regiment became the 7th
Singapore Infantry Brigade with

Colours, Standard and Pennant 45

Commando sub-units. When the 40 SAR
Commando sub-units of 7 SIB
were transferred out, 7 SIR
became 3 Guards Battalion. 1 and
3 Guards Battalions were
presented with their Regimental
Colours on 11 June 1983 at
Jurong Stadium by the late
President Devan Nair.

ARMOUR The 40 SAR Regimental Colours
was presented to the Battalion by
The gauntlet The gauntlet symbolises the hard the late President of the Republic
symbolises the protection of the Armour and her of Singapore, Dr. B. H. Sheares on
hard protection of equally hard crushing capabilities. 6 November 1977 at the Selarang
the Armour and The cross-bayonets represent Barracks. The Colours bears the
her equally hard Infantry capability. This Insignia number “40” the top left corner of
cushing is flanked on its left and right with the field background and the frills
capabilities. laurels which are termed as are yellow.
‘showers’ of yellow. These golden
‘showers’ signify the splendour 41 SAR
and importance of the Armoured
Forces. Her motto being, “Swift
and Decisive”.

In addition, a yellow scroll with The 41st Battalion Singapore
the inscription Singapore Armoured Regiment’s Colours
Armoured Regiment appears bears the number “41” at the top
beneath the laurels and insignia. left corner of the field background
The whole emblem is placed on a and the frills are red. The
green field background and the Regimental Colours was presented
Battalion number appears on the to the Battalion by the late
top-left hand corner of the President of the Republic of
Colours, in yellow. The colour of Singapore, Dr. B. H. Sheares on 6
the fringes of respective November 1977 at the Selarang
Battalions also differs from one Barracks.
another. Also the coloured frills
on the Colours indicates the
seniority of the Battalion (yellow,
red, green, blue).

46 Colours, Standard and Pennant

42 SAR to the 46 SAR on 20 October 1991 at
the Retirement and Presentation of
Colours Parade at Khatib Camp.

HEADQUARTERS, SINGAPORE
ARTILLERY

The 42nd Battalion Singapore The Bomb, which is the ultimate
Armoured Regiment’s Colours weapon delivered for the
bears the number “42” at the top destruction of the enemy, is
left corner of the field background positioned above the crossed
and the frills are green. The late cannons. This also symbolises the
President of the Republic of accuracy, timeliness and firepower
Singapore, Dr. B.H. Sheares, of all Artillery Units. The Red field
presented the Regimental Colours background of the Colours signifies
to the 42 SAR on 6 November the firepower of the Singapore
1977 at the Selarang Barracks. Artillery. The Blue background
depicts royalty and distinction. The The motto “In
46 SAR Gold symbolises loyalty to the Oriente Primus” in
President, the Unit and the Latin means “First
The 46th Battalion Singapore manoeuvre force. The motto “In in the East”.
Armoured Regiment’s Colours Oriente Primus” in Latin means
bears the number “46”at the top “First in the East” and serves as a
left corner of the field background constant impetus to the Artillery to
and the frills are blue. The late maintain her lead as the oldest and
President of the Republic of finest Support Arms in the SAF.
Singapore, Mr Wee Kim Wee,
presented the Regimental Colours The Singapore Artillery was
awarded with the State Colours and
Regimental Colours at the
Presentation and Trooping of
Colours Parade on 22 January 1977

Colours, Standard and Pennant 47

at the Jurong Town Stadium. The The bayonet depicts the combat
late President of the Republic of role of the Engineers while the twin
Singapore, Dr. B.H. Sheares, bolts of lightning represent their
presented the Colours. destructive demolition capability.
The laurels encircling the castle
A new Regimental Colours was and the words “SINGAPORE
presented to HQ SA by the late COMBAT ENGINEERS” signify
President of the Republic of unity in Engineer efforts.
Singapore, Mr Wee Kim Wee on
the Retirement and Presentation of The Singapore Combat Engineers
Colours Parade on 20 October (SCE) Formation was awarded with
1991 held at Khatib Camp. the State Colours and Regimental
Colours at the Presentation and
HEADQUARTERS, COMBAT Trooping of Colours Parade on 22
ENGINEERS January 1977 at the Jurong Town
Stadium. The late President of the
Republic of Singapore, Dr.
B.H.Sheares, presented the
Colours.

The brown field background A new Regimental Colours was
colour represents the harsh terrain presented to HQ SCE by the late
which Engineers must advance President of the Republic of
through and overcome. The Castle Singapore, Mr. Wee Kim Wee on
motif represents the construction the Retirement and Presentation of
capabilities of the Combat Colours Parade on 20 October
Engineers, which is to construct 1991 held at Khatib Camp.
bridges, roads and to erect
The Castle motif obstacles to impede the enemy
represents the and fortifications to protect our
construction own forces. The interlocking
capabilities of the bricks represent the strength,
Combat endurance and the level of
Engineers. absolute teamwork required to
accomplish the engineering tasks.

48 Colours, Standard and Pennant

HEADQUARTERS, SIGNALS the Retirement and Presentation of Headquarters,
& COMMAND SYSTEMS Colours Parade on 20 October 1991 Signals was
held at Khatib Camp. officially
The colours, red, blue and white renamed
are the fundamental colours Headquarters, Signals was officially Headquarters,
related to Signals. The red vertical renamed Headquaters, Signals & Signals &
band reflects courage and Command Systems during their 40th Command
brotherhood within the Signals Anniversary Trooping of Colours Systems.
fraternity. Whilst the blue Parade, held at Stagmont Camp on
symbolises the virtues of integrity 24 February 2006 by the Minister
and dedication, speed, intensity for Defence, Mr Teo Chee Hean.
and decisiveness through the
application of knowledge. Skill HEADQUARTERS, MEDICAL
and professionalism are captured CORPS
in the stylised lightning streak
while the crossed flags symbolises The Headquarters Medical Corps
the Signals’ role in providing
communication. Colours has the emblem of the SAF

The Signal Formation was Medical Services superimposed
awarded with the State Colours
and Regimental Colours at the onto the colours of the Army, Navy
Presentation and Trooping of and Air Force. Two Serpents The two
Colours Parade on 22 January 1977 entwining the Sword and Anchor serpents
at the Jurong Town Stadium by the
late President of the Republic of are representations of the ancient entwining the
Singapore, Dr. B.H. Sheares.
Caduceus which symbolises the sword and
A new Regimental Colours was
presented to HQ Signals by the medical profession. anchor are
late President of the Republic of
Singapore, Mr. Wee Kim Wee on representations
The Caduceus (a rod entwined by of the ancient
two snakes topped with a pair of
wings) is regarded as the magic staff Caduceus which
of the Greek god Hermes, and is symbolises the

often associated with medicine via medical
alchemy. The SAF Medical Corps profession.

thus uses the entwined snakes but

Colours, Standard and Pennant 49

replaces the rod with an Army core of engineering and technical
sword, Air Force wings and Naval professionals in the MES
anchor. The emblem colour, Formation, dedicated to providing
maroon represents the life-saving responsive and cost effective
colour of blood. Together, they solutions to maintenance and
depict a unified, Tri-service technical problems. The Laurels
Medical Corps serving the entire represent the attainment and
SAF. The State Arms surmounts improvement of quality services
their Insignia. and professional standards
achieved by the formation as
The Regimental Colours was well as its continuous drive
presented to HQMC by the late towards excellence. The MES
President of the Republic of motto “Excellence through
Singapore, Mr. Wee Kim Wee Professionalism” has spurred on
during the SAF Day Parade on 1 countless MES personnel in their
July 1993 at Khatib Camp. pursuit to improve operations and
services.
HEADQUARTERS,
MAINTENANCEAND The Regimental Colours was
ENGINEERING SUPPORT presented to HQ MES by the late
President of the Republic of
Singapore, Mr. Ong Teng Cheong
during SAF Day Parade on 1 July
1994 at Khatib Camp.

HEADQUARTERS, SUPPLY
AND TRANSPORT

The MES motto In the Maintenance and The Gear and Platform in the
“Excellence Engineering Support (MES)
through emblem, the Rifle and Spanner
Professionalism”. symbolise the importance of
maintenance and engineering
support to any Army operations.

The Gear represents the Supply and Transport Formation
progression, dedication and unity logo symbolise the aspiration to
in providing continuous Army enhance mobility, to provide inter-
maintenance and engineering modular transportation service and
support. The Atom denotes the reliable supply transport in the

50 Colours, Standard and Pennant

Army. The Bayonet represents the traditional Coat of Arms of the
perseverance and robustness of
the Supply and Transport Provost and also signify its standing
Formation. The red field
background bearing the colour of as a fighting Unit. The word
the SAF, signifies the camaraderie
and esprit de corps within the “PROVOST” is proudly emblazoned
formation. The Colours are
trimmed with a gold fringe to on the Colours symbolising the The HQ S & T
signify the will to strive for a
reliable, efficient and professional outstanding image of the Provost. Colours are
service. The blue signifies the long
history and tradition of logistics These are set within a background trimmed with a
in the SAF. of red, which symbolises the gold fringe to
brotherhood and equality within the signify the will to
The Regimental Colours was formation. The white in the Colours
presented to HQ Suppy and symbolises the discipline and strive for a
Transport by the late President of
Republic of Singapore, Mr. Ong character of the Provost. A trimming reliable, efficient
Teng Cheong during SAF Day of gold fringe signifies the high and professional
Parade on 1 July 1995 at Khatib
Camp. standard which has been achieved service.

and which the Provost will continue

to maintain. The Provost’s motto is

“Pride, Discipline and Honour”.

Pride - Pride in work and
discipline, maintaining through
their professional conduct, a high
standard of discipline in the SAF.

SAF PROVOST UNIT Discipline - Projecting their own

The SAF Provost Unit (SAFPU) high standards of discipline in The word
Regimental Colours uses the
crossed Muskets, Title, their smart turnout, bearing and “PROVOST” is
Inscription and Scroll on a field work.
background of Red and White proudly
halved vertically. The brown
Muskets maintain the link with the Honour - The honourable tasks of emblazoned on
enforcing discipline in the SAF the Colours

and the mounting of all Guard of symbolising the

Honour for the presentation of oustanding

credentials by the President. image of the

Provost.
The Regimental Colours was

presented to SAFPU by the late

President of the Republic of

Singapore, Mr. Ong Teng Cheong

during SAF Day Parade on 1 July

1995 at Khatib Camp.

Colours, Standard and Pennant 51

THE PRESIDENT STANDARD PRESIDENTIAL LANCE
GUARD PENNANT

The President The President Standard is a red In our modern society with well-
Standard is a flag with a white Crescent Moon established police and security
red flag with a and Five Stars emblazoned in the forces, the idea of Presidential
white crescent centre. The colour red is symbolic Guards armed with lances would
moon and five of the universal brotherhood and seem old fashioned. On the
stars equality of man. The Crescent contrary, this practice has deep
emblazoned in represents a young country on the symbolic significance dating back
the center. ascent while the five stars to the medieval times.
represent democracy, peace,
progress, justice and equality. In olden days, knights in armour
were the cream of the fighting
The President Standard is flown forces. The best knights and
from the highest point on the Champions formed a special guard
Istana main building. The Standard that protected the monarch or
is flown daily from 8.00 am to 6.00 ruling lord on and off the
pm, or until such time when the battlefield. The lance is a form of
President has left for his private spear that was very popular with
residence. the armoured knights of old. The
date of its introduction into
The above Standard is raised civilised armies, however, went
folded and tied with a ‘quick- much further than the Middle
release’ knot. On the final execution Ages. Its employment can
of the “Salute” or “Present Arms” definitely be traced to the
to the President on his arrival for Assyrians and Egyptians. The
an event/parade, the knot is Greeks and Romans also used
tugged thus releasing the lances. The British in turn were
Standard to ‘Fly’. This is evidently impressed by the weapon during
witnessed during major parades the Battle of Waterloo and in 1816,
like SAF Day and National Day. organised the first regiment of
Lancers. During the First World
War, this medieval weapon was

52 Colours, Standard and Pennant

carried by the Germans, French and Their performance during the parade
British in a war fought mainly with
machine-guns. It was only in 1927, will honour the arrival and departure
that the British Army finally
abolished the Lance as a weapon. of the President of the Republic of

However, it was retained for Singapore. The dozen men mounting
ceremonial purposes. In times of
peace, no ancient weapon the Lance Guard are themselves Only selected
contributed more to the pomp and outstanding soldiers of our fighting Armoured
pageantry of war than the Lance. force. Not only are they physically
The sight of a column of Lancers impressive, they are also highly personnel are
with steel points flashing and trained and disciplined. This is a qualified to be a
pennants flying is a memorable
spectacle. prerequisite be fitting the solemnity Presidential
of the occasion. Lance Guards must Lance Guard.
The Cavalry or Armour is the
forerunner of today’s Armies as have the endurance to parade for
were Armoured Knights of the
past. Thus appropriately, the SAF long duration. They are dressed in
Armour Formation has inherited
this tradition. No. 1 ceremonial uniform and carry

Singapore’s first troop of Lance the Lance.
Guards were formed on 3
December 1959 at a ceremonial This is a prestigious appointment.
installation of His Excellency the Only selected Armoured personnel
Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Encik are qualified to be a Presidential
Yusof Bin Ishak. They were Lance Guard.
dressed in their traditional cavalry REGIMENTAL BAND BANNER
fashion with red hats and black
peaks, white tunic with blue The SAF Band banner is red with
trousers (patrol order), chain mail the SAF Band insignia charged in
epaulettes, boots with spurs and the centre. This insignia has a disc,
cross belt with message pouches.

Today, they are known as
Presidential Lance Guards and are
mounted during State Occasions
for the President since the first
National Day Parade.

Colours, Standard and Pennant 53

Their motto, “ In divided horizontally into three have been associated with religion
Harmony”, is coloured bands, light blue, red and from the earliest times. Israelites
inscribed in gold navy blue. They represent the carried the social standard of the
on a red scroll. three Services in the SAF. The Maccabees which bore the initial
centre is charged with a gold lyre letter of the Hebrew text. These
and laurels which are also used as early associations linking religion
the SAF Musician’s badge. The with the battle flags and standards
National Arms surmounts the have their counterpart in the
disc. Their motto, “In Harmony”, ceremonial attached to Colours
is inscribed in gold on a red scroll today.
that appears at the base of the
insignia. Their banners are also The SAF adopted the British
fringed in gold. The banners for custom for the consecration of the
notes-stands have an additional Colours prior the presentation to
“Singapore Armed Forces Bands” the Units. The drums are
appearing in gold arranged in an traditionally piled to provide
arc above their Insignia. an altar for the consecration.
The drums are brought
There were also previously the forward and piled in the centre.
RSN Band and the RSAF Band The pile consists of six side
with their own banners, until they drums in a circle with the
merged to form the SAF Band. emblazoning the right way up,
facing outwards. The bass
CASING AND UNCASING OF drum is laid on the side drums
COLOURS and a tenor drum on top, both
with the centre of the
Traditionally the drummers have emblazoning facing the person
always been associated with the blessing the Colours. The
Colours and therefore it normally Colours are then draped on the
falls to a drummer to case and pile for the consecration, the
uncase the Colours when on pikes resting on the hoop to
parade. Today, a Colours Orderly retain the Colours pikes in
is used for this purpose. position. There is no drill laid
down for piling drums, but the
CONSECRATION OFTHE drummers concerned normally
COLOURS turn to their left or right and
marches out in single file, form a
Colours have always been circle around the designated
regarded with great reverence. spot, turn inwards and arrange
Historians record that Colours their instruments as indicated

54 Colours, Standard and Pennant

The order of precedence for the

religions are based on their

founding dates and has been The order of
endorsed by the Inter-Religious presedence for
Organisation, Singapore.
the religions are

above. After the Colours have COMPLIMENTS AND SALUTES based on their
been consecrated, the drums are founding dates.
recovered in the same way.
Colours are always accorded the
The Colours after being blessed highest honours and compliments.
by the various religious leaders, When Colours are uncased, the
is handed over to the President, Colours Party are not to pay
who will present the newly- compliments except to those entitled
consecrated Colours to the CO/ to the compliment of having the
Commander of the Unit. The Colours dipped or “let fly”.
Colours are then trooped. Individuals are always to salute the
uncased Colours when passing or
being passed by it.

Today, the consecration ceremony LOWERING COLOURS –
is carried out by the recognised SALUTES
religions in Singapore and they are
as follows, in order of precedence:

1. Hinduism The custom of lowering the Colours
2. Judaism is of ancient origin and is regarded
3. Zorastrianism as saluting in a most respectful
4. Buddhism manner with the highest honours.
5. Taoism As adapted from the Queen’s
6. Christianity Regulation, the State Colours will
7. Islam only be lowered (dip) for the Royal
8. Sikhism Salute and Head of State Salute while
9. Baha’i Faith the Regimental Colours will be
10. Jainism lowered (dip) for General Salutes.

Colours, Standard and Pennant 55

The custom The Colours being allowed to fly Battle or Charge”, “The Retreat”,
of lowering free is known as “Let Fly” and is “The March”, “The Reveille” and
the Colours is also a form of compliments. The “The Tattoo”.
of ancient Ensign of the Colours will “Let
origin and is Fly” the Colours for the followings When Colours were taken into
regarded as occasions: battle, they were usually
saluting in a positioned in the centre of the
most 1. During the inspection of the battle line, which was normally the
respectful Guard of Honour or troops on place from which the battle was
manner with tpraoroapdse.on parade. controlled. Every unit took into
the highest battle its drummers, buglers, fifers
honours. 2. When Colours march past the and other musicians who might
Reviewing Officer make up a band (they also doubled
as stretcher bearers). Upon an
3. When Colours are trooping attack developing, the
during the Trooping of Colours Commanding Officer would order
the various instruments to be
4. When Colours are marching beaten or blown as hard as their
on or marching off the parade, players could manage. The
while the troops are in the attention of the unit was drawn to
“Present Arms” position. the fact that the centre was being
threatened and the Colours were
5. When Guard of Honour or in danger. This action became the
troops paying compliments to centre point of the way and the
an Officer who is not entitled music became a rallying tune.
the dipping of Colours, the
Ensign will “let fly” the Presently the Band will play the
Colours. stirring tune of “Point of War” as
a form of salute for all Colours
POINT OF WAR being marched on and off the
parade ground.
The name “Point of War” appears
to date back at least to the mid-
seventeenth century when the
“Points of Warre” referred to the
various beats used to signal
commands to the troops. In the
book, Complete Body of the Art
Military, published in 1650, these
are given as “The Call”,: “The
Troop”, “The Preparative”, “The

56 Colours, Standard and Pennant

TRANSPORTING OF personnel who have to handle the
COLOURS Colours must wear clean white
gloves.
Whenever Colours are
transported, they are to be When not in use on ceremonial Colours are
accompanied by an Officer, occasions, Colours are retained or fashioned by
Warrant Officer or a senior kept in the CO/ Commander’s hand from the
Specialist. Colours are to be cased Office, secured in a suitable highest
until they reach the place where display cabinet. Colours are quality silks,
they are to be paraded and the always to be displayed, uncased gold and
units are to ensure that the and attached to their own pike/ coloured
Colours is handled with dignity staff. The custodian of the braid and
and is safeguarded at all times Colours is usually the Unit RSM threads.
from being damaged. Individual who is responsible for the care
stand of appropriate size and and maintenance of the Colours.
strength for the safeguarding and
protecting the Colours from WITHDRAWAL FROM
damaged when transporting them SERVICE
between locations is encouraged.

CARE AND CUSTODY OF A Colours is to be withdrawn from
COLOURS service when the Unit is deactivated
but remains on the order of battle.
Colours are fashioned by hand The withdrawn Colours will be
from the highest quality silks, gold allocated to a unit, namely the
and coloured braid and threads. It Formation HQ, for safekeeping and
is therefore a costly and delicate it will remain cased.
article, requiring careful treatment
at all times. It is estimated that with Once the unit is reactivated, the
care, Colours should have an Colours will be re-allocated to its
useful life span of about 15 to 20 Unit by the Service HQ. While there
years. The life span of the Colours is no ceremony associated with
also depends upon its condition withdrawing a Colours from service,
and may remain in use as long as or placing the Colours back into
the materials have not service, a Colours parade should be
deteriorated. The natural moisture held as soon as possible after the
and oil of the human hand stains Unit has reformed. It is during this
delicate fabrics and causes rapid parade that the Colours are
deterioration. For these reasons, “Trooped”.

Colours, Standard and Pennant 57

REPLACEMENT OF
COLOURS

Colours should be serviceable for
at least 15 to 20 years. However,
regardless of their age where
through normal wear and tear,
they become unserviceable or
condition of the Colours may The Retirement of 6 SIR Colours on 1
cause embarrassment to the Unit Jul 2005 due to fair wear and tear
or there is a change in the design /
name of the Colours, then the
Colours should be replaced.

RETIREMENT OF THE
COLOURS

Colours are Colours are retired when a
retired when a Formation or Unit has become
formation or Unit defunct as a result of organisation
become defunct or structural changes. It may also
as a result of be no longer presentable due to
organisation or fair wear and tear which requires a
structural replacement.
changes.
Colours of Formation / Unit which
are defunct will be kept in the
military museum or be kept in the
Formation Commander’s office.

Colours are retired ceremoniously
during the SAF Day Parade when
the entire parade will give a final
compliment to the Colours. This
can be an “emotional” moment as
the Colours retired will never be
on parade again and it will be slow
marched out of the parade square
to the tune of “Auld Lang Syne”.

58 Colours, Standard and Pennant

Ceremonial Dress
and Pageantry Display

Introduction
The Ceremonial Uniform
No. 4 Uniform
Cap
Aiguillette
Gorget
Sash
Ceremonial Sword
Why RSM don the Ceremonial
Sword?
Epaulette and Shoulder
Strap
Military Music
Bugle Call
Tattoo
Taps
Corps of Drums
Medals
Types of Medals in the SAF
Why Medals are worn on the
left side of the Uniform?
Pace Stick
Chevron
Buttons
Identity Disc
Officer Cadet’s White Colour
Board
Cap Badge
Vocational Collar Badge
Drum Major’s Staff (Mace)
Drum Major’s Shoulder Belt
(Sash)



INTRODUCTION bearing, as the minimum the uniform
demands is that they be noble of
The word ‘uniform’ is derived character, worthy of the ranks they
from the Latin words ‘unus,’ one, shoulder and be a source of pride
and ‘forma,’ form, and includes the and prestige to the nation.
different styles of dress by the
Military service to secure the THE CEREMONIAL UNIFORM
distinction required.
The Army’s ceremonial uniform (No The word
Like the National Flag, the uniform 1) and Mess Kit (No 2) which were ‘uniform’ is
is a symbol of allegiance to which designed in the 1960s have remained derived from
all the members of the Armed unchanged since the formation of the Latin words
Forces are pledged and for which the SAF. It was only in 1994 that the ‘unus’, one,
they must honour. Army Dress Review Committee and ‘forma’,
recommended and gave birth to how form.
It is a symbol of the energy and the Army dresses today.
ideals in which men in different
times and throughout the ages The rationale behind the new design
have stood their ground and is to mirror the dress norms of our
resisted the inducement of gold, society and cater for the unique
stormed with the cross and strips requirements of the military. Thus,
of barbed wires and even crucified when the dress code for the civilians
themselves before the fire of is short sleeve / open neck, we have
death. the No 3. When the dress code is
shirt and tie, we wear a modified
Without the pride of their men in version of the No 3 where the
uniform, nations have declined sleeves are lengthened and we will
and fallen. With it, nations have use the service tie (No 5T). We will
flourished and prospered. wear a matching jacket over it when
the occasion calls for a coat and tie
For the SAF, the spirit of service (No 5J). The Mess Kit was also re-
to the nation and the obligation designed for formal occasions. To
of community service have built cater for ceremonial purposes and
up over the years, for the men in training, the No 1 and No 4 were
green, white and blue, an image introduced.
worth the pride of the public and
the confidence of the nation.

It falls upon all servicemen
therefore to be impeccable in their

Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display 61

Ceremonial Uniform trousers. The trousers are double
pleated, giving a more friendly
(No 1) – The feeling than those of the old No 2.
A red bow tie, red cummerbund,
Ceremonial Uniform black shoulder boards and SAF
gold metal buttons complete the
is worn by Army outfit. The shoulder boards gives
the jacket a much cleaner
personnel at finish than before, whilst the
thinner three-and-a-half inch
parades and ceremonies. The cummerbund is much more
comfortable than the old six-inch
present ceremonial uniform retains one. For the ladies, their Mess Kit
has a mandarin collar jacket over
its basic colours of white, blue and a black, ankle-length evening
gown. The jacket has the same
red for tradition. However, the red buttons and shoulder boards as
the men’s, so both complement
sash, worn around the waist, has each other and give a unified
image of the SAF. The top of the
been done away with. The braided dress is made of black crepe fabric.

epaulettes have also been replaced Service Uniform - There are many
occasions when Army Personnel
with Shoulder Boards. The collar have to attend functions in
uniform, together with civilians.
has a nicer cut and is easier to Functions where civilians wore
either a shirt and tie or lounge suit,
manage than the old uniform. New the SAF servicemen then wore the
Bush Jacket. Doing away for a
embroidered collar badges are also more appropriate equivalent of
civilian attire at such occasions, a
The No 1 featured. No changes have been new Service Uniform was
Uniform introduced based on the No 3
design looks made to the cap. The trousers will Uniform. The trousers for the
smart and is Service Uniform are the same.
comfortable in have pleats. For female personnel When the dress code of a function
our warm or event calls for a shirt and tie, a
climate. in the Army, their Ceremonial long sleeved version of No 3 shirt
will be donned by the servicemen.
Uniform complements that of the

men. The cut has been altered from

that of the old one and the head-

dress has been redesigned. The

No 1 Uniform design looks smart

and is comfortable in our warm

climate.

Mess Kit (No 2) – The Mess Kit is
worn on formal ‘black tie’
occasions, when male civilians
wear a tuxedo and ladies wear an
evening gown. The design of the
Army Mess Kit has been updated
to bring it in line with that of
‘modern black tie’ dress norms.
The men’s jacket has been given a
modern cut along the lines of a
tuxedo. It is worn over a white
wing-collared shirt with black

62 Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display

For lounge suit occasions, a The SAF supplied its own set of One purpose of
matching green coat will be worn clothing to replace the old pattern military uniform
over the shirt and tie. The ladies drill uniforms used by the British on is to clearly
Service Dress is of a 1 September 1967. Made from distinguish
complementary design to that of “Temasek Green cotton drill”, the combatants
the men, with a matching bow uniforms of 1967 only had two who are
ribbon. The Service Uniform will patched pockets for the shirt, and protected by
also replace the former Overseas three pockets for the trousers, with the laws of war
Service Dress. the uniform always to be worn from other
tucked in. Green Temasek uniforms persons
NO. 4 UNIFORM were highly starched and pressed carrying
so well that it was said that the shirt weapons.
One purpose of military uniform is would stand on its own. The same
to clearly distinguish combatants type of uniform was also used out
who are protected by the laws of in the field. The shirt is neatly tucked
war from other persons carrying into the trousers.
weapons, who enjoy no such
protection. Another purpose in It was noted that during training, part
historical times was to make it of the shirt would always come out,
difficult for deserters to avoid giving the men an untidy look.
detection; military uniforms were
so distinctive with many metal On 20 June 1977, a new baggy
buttons and unique colours that styled uniform shirt was
they could not be modified into introduced. This baggy look
unrecognisable clothing. would prevent soldiers from heat
rash and chaffing. It provides more
room for stretching and bending,
saving wear and tear. Retaining its
name of “Temasek Green”, the
uniform was a darker green and
now had 4 instead of 2 pockets.
In July 1981, the uniform was
standardised to be both the No. 3
and No. 4 dress. Both these shirts
of No. 3 and No. 4 are not tucked
into the trousers.

The first camouflage dress was
originally introduced in June 1983.
However, due to poor

Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display 63

colourfastness complaints, a Armoured personnel their black
different material was introduced beret.
in 1985, which was lighter in
weight and had more air flow AIGUILLETTE
permeability.

CAP

Since the Originally, the word “aiguillette”
referred to the lacing used to fasten
formation of the armour plate together. As such, a
knot or loop arrangement was used
Since the SAF/Army which sometimes hung down from
formation of the shoulder. The present use of
the SAF/ soldiers wore the word to denote the
Army soliders accoutrement worn by Aides-de-
wore jungle jungle green caps, besides the Camp probably stems from this
caps. earlier use.
helmet. On 3 May 1971, these caps
A series of fanciful and somewhat
were changed to beret. Each ridiculous legends have grown up
about the origin of aiguillettes.
division of the SAF – land, sea, air One account relates that when
certain European troops behaved
and the special Commandos group reprehensibly on the field of
battle, their commander would
wore different coloured berets. The decide to hang some of them. The
troops asked to be given a chance
colours chosen are closely tied to to redeem themselves and began
wearing a rope and spike about
those used in the British Armed their shoulders with the promise
that if they ever behaved badly
Forces. again, they were ready to be
hanged on the spot. It is further
The cap (Jockey) and beret
colour changes were implemented
on 25 August 1976. The new cap
is worn in the field when a helmet
is not required. At other times,
Infantrymen and soldiers from the
Support Arms wore the new green
beret and dark blue beret
respectively.

However, the Commandos kept
their red beret, as well as the

64 Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display

related that these troops covered These metal-tipped, coloured cords The
themselves with glory thereafter. are worn on the right shoulder, except aiguillette
Another tale recounts that for S/No. 4, 5 & 6 (from above) who is an
aiguillettes originated with the cord wear them on the left shoulder. MA/ “insignia
with a pencil worn by generals and SO to CDF and Service Chiefs will used to
staff officers for writing dispatches. wear the lanyard when in No 3 distinguish
Still another account has it that the uniform. The French military word officers
idea started with the custom of the “aide-de-camp” simply means holding
general’s aide-de-camp carrying a “assistance in camp”. This might certain
rope over his shoulder, together explain why officers assisting the appointments”.
with pegs fastened thereto, for the CDF or the President are called
purpose of hobbling his own Aide-de-Camps.
general’s horses. All such accounts
have no basis in fact. GORGET

The aiguillette is an “insignia Gorget Patches were originally pieces
used to distinguish officers of armour which protected the throat
holding certain appointments”. or “gorge” and was implemented as a
They are worn with all uniforms distinguishing insignia.
except the No.4 dress.
Gorget patches are worn with the
The following officers are entitled Number 1 dress uniform for Army
to wear the aiguillette: officers above the rank of COL. They
are fastened at the collar with the base
1. Chief of Defense Force (CDF), at the forward edge of the collar and
whilst in No 1, 2 and 5 dress the pointed edge inwards. It can be
described as a “coloured collar patch
2. Aide-De-Camp (ADC) to the (usually red) with a button and either
President gold lace oak leaf motif or silk cord.”

3. Honourary ADC to the Col BG MG
President and above

4. Military Attache (MA) and
Assistant MA

5. Director of Music during band
performance

6. MA/SO to CDF & Service
Chiefs

Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display 65

In the SAF, gorget patches come in “Duty BOS” (Duty Battalion
the following designs: Orderly Sergeant) in a unit. It is
laid across the right shoulder
1. For COLs: A red patch with one (beneath the epaulette) to the left
gold braid lacing down the of the body.
centre and a small gold button
at the point. CEREMONIAL SWORD

2. For BGs: A red patch with two
gold braids lacing down the
centre and a small gold button
at the point.

3. MGs and Above: A red patch
with gold oak leaf embroidery
down the centre and a gold
button at the point.

SASH

The The word Sword is derived from a
prehistoric Germanic word
sash is Swerthem from which the more
familiar sounding Sward
laid across the (Swedish), Zwaard (Dutch) and
Svoerd (Danish) arose. It was
right shoulder suggested that the word was
linked to the meaning ‘Pain’, the
(beneath the The sash may be an item of sword thus being the cause of
epaulette) to the ornamental equipment that once had pain.
a functional purpose: to improvise
left of the body. litters for carrying wounded off the To counter this, personal armour
was used that was designed to
field. They were usually made of withstand sword blows and
protect more vulnerable body
silk, being strong as well as light, areas. This armour was constructed
of stout leather and reinforced with
and full enough to enclose the metal plates or links.

human form.

Sash are worn by Infantry Colour
Escorts normally Sergeant by rank.
They are also worn by Infantry
Duty Sergeant, often known as

66 Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display

The sword user thus had to turn from fashioned in the image of the knights The sword is
his weeping slashes to more of yesteryear as they largely carried by an
accurate strikes at exposed areas and performed the same function of SAF
the joints of the armour pieces. In leading a group of men. Commissioned
doing so, sword design moved away Officer as a
from the curved and heavy slashing The swords come in two lengths i.e. mark of his
blade to a straight one with a 819 mm and 919 mm. The 819 mm status and
sharpened tip that was good at swords were issued from 1981 to his symbol of
thrusting at the enemy. 1988 and the 919 mm swords were authority.
issued since 1982. The latter sword
It is perhaps prudent to start by is used for parades. For military
giving an answer to one very officers attending the parade, both
simple question: Why wear a lengths of sword may be used.
sword in a supposedly ‘modern’
war dominated by firepower? Swords are worn at a parade or
Although there are undoubtedly ceremony where the No 1 dress is
undertones of a distant chivalric prescribed, for the following
age connected with such a officers:
potentially brutal implement, it is
not primarily a weapon, rather it is 1. Reviewing Officer (if they are
above all else, an insignia of rank commissioned SAF Officer)
– a sign of authority bestowed
upon the officer by the State. As 2. Officers escorting the Reviewing
such, it is important to remember Officer
that the sword is part of an officer’s
uniform and should be treated as 3. Commander of the Formation/
an object of respect by the rank Unit organising the parade or
and file, but more importantly, by ceremony
the individual wearing it.
4. Parade Commander
The sword is carried by an SAF
Commissioned Officer as a mark of 5. Contingent Commanders
his status and his symbol
authority. The practice of officers 6. Supernumerary Officers
carrying swords probably
stemmed from the Middle Ages 7. Parade RSM
where only men of a certain stature
(e.g. Knights) were allowed to keep All Officers of the rank of Major and
swords. It is often said that the above will don the ceremonial sword
officers of today are largely for functions/ ceremonies when
instructed. As a general rule, swords
need not be worn during indoor
ceremonies.

Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display 67

Looking closer, you would see a The only time a Parade RSM is
sword knot which is a strap with a given the privilege to draw his
tassel wound around the hilt of the sword is when he pays the highest
sword. This knot was originally form of compliment to the Colours
used to prevent the sword being prior to it being trooped. In this
lost in action, for the strap was instance, his Pace Stick is taken
twisted around the wrist of the out of the parade ground by an
bearer. orderly.

The only time WHY RSM DON THE EPAULETTE AND SHOULDER
a Parade RSM CEREMONIAL SWORD? STRAP
is given the
privilege to Whilst it is commonly known that Before the twentieth century
draw his sword only Commissioned Officers are epaulettes and shoulder straps
is when he allowed the privilege to don the were common devices to signal
pays the ceremonial sword, the exception rank. Epaulettes, from epaule an
highest form of to the rule applies to the Parade old French word for shoulder,
compliment to RSM. Going by his title “King of seem to have started out as cloth
the Colours the Parade Square”, the Parade straps worn on the shoulders to
prior to it being RSM is authorised to wear the help keep shoulder sashes and
trooped. sword as a mark of his authority belts in position. Another story
in controlling the parade. Wearing has them beginning as pieces of
the sword also emphasises his armour to protect the shoulders.
specialised skills in drilling the men By the time of the American
and the sword being a symbol of Revolutionary War epaulettes
authority, will accord him the worn by British and French
respect he deserves from Officers Officers had become elaborate
and all Ranks on parade. affairs of gold or silver that started
at the collar and ended at the point
of the shoulder with heavy fringes
of gold or silver wire. To some they
looked like fancy hair brushes.
They were also very expensive,
being made of gold or silver,
sometimes solid metal and other
times plated. Epaulettes for
Sergeants and other enlisted men
were of cheaper metals or cloth.

68 Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display

Epaulettes and
shoulder straps

The ranks of Warrant Officers and had seen the value of the drum as Military music
Officers are inserted into these an adjunct to military art in the accentuates
epaulettes. armies of the Saracens and the occasion,
introduced this instrument into allowing the
MILITARY MUSIC England in the eleventh century listener to be
under the names of the tabor and the totally
Drums and fifes are among the naker. immersed in
oldest form of military musical the military
intruments. The drum had long It seems, however, that the drummer, setting.
been known in eastern countries for a considerable number of years,
and the early Egyptians combined was only employed as one of the
the trumpet and the drum to provide retinue of great Officers and not
their military music. The Greeks, generally included as part of the
on the other hand, favoured the establishment of the Army. In the
flute, the smoothing tunes of which list of the Army employed during the
kept their fighting men cool and disastrous war with France in 1557,
firm. The trumpet was the drums were appointed to the
instrument in general use with the Regiment of Foot in the proportion
forces of the Roman Empire, while of one drummer and one fifer to a
the ancient Briton favoured the company of a hundred men.
horn and trumpet. These remained
the only instruments of martial The role of music in the military is
music until the Crusaders returned often downplayed or forgotten. But
with fresh ideas from the east. They nonetheless, it has a significant
place in the pageantry, which
surrounds certain ceremonial
occasions in the SAF. From the
commissioning ball to the
ceremonial parades ever present in
the SAF, stirring military music
accentuates the occasion, allowing
the listener to be totally immersed
in the military setting.

Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display 69

Bugles were Military music, though usually played at 6am, at noon and at 6
first used to associated with joyous military pm in the evening, every day. This
control the occasions, can also be a touching custom was adapted from the
movement of dedication to the fallen comrade in British practice of sounding the
troops in arms. The “Last Post” is a bugle every day, at the prescribed
battle. melancholic but dignified tune timing, whilst outfield.
usually played at military funerals
by a sole bugler to signify the TATTOO
passing of a brave member of the
Armed Forces. The “Last Post” How did a drummer’s word like
and “Dead March from Soul” are “tattoo” get tagged on a bugle
examples of tunes commonly used call? It probably originated
to honour the fallen dead in the among the British troops in
SAF. Holland during the Thirty Years’
War (1618–1648) or during the
BUGLE CALL wars of King William III in the
1690’s. When the time came for
The bugle, short for “bugle horn”, soldiers to leave the taverns and
is a descendant of the hunting horn. return to their billets, the Officer
The word “bugle” itself is an of the Day, with a Sergeant and
obsolete term for a wild ox or drummer, would beat his way
buffalo. The first hunting horns through the streets. It is the
were unquestioningly made from signal to quiet down in barracks
the horn of this animal. and to turn off the lights within
fifteen minutes.
Bugles were first used to control
the movement of troops in battle. TAPS
Bugle music can be used to
signal the different times of the Of all the military bugle calls, none
day. It is common practice in is so easily recognized or more apt
Army camps, bugle music is to render emotion than Taps. Up
to the Civil War, the traditional call
at day’s end was a tune, borrowed
from the French, called Lights Out.

This more emotive and powerful
Taps was soon adopted
throughout the Army of the
Potomac. In 1874 it was officially
recognized by the U.S. Army. It

70 Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display

became standard at military funeral strict marching time of the battalion. The effect of
ceremonies in 1891. There is The effect of the drums is to instil into the drums is
something singularly beautiful and the soldier the swing of the movement to instil into
appropriate in the music of this of marching as opposed to the action the soldier
wonderful call. Its strains are of walking together in close the swing of
melancholy, yet full of rest and formation. Not only is the music of the
peace. Its echoes linger in the heart the drums a wonderful aid to troops movement of
long after its tones have ceased on the march but it is also an aid to a marching as
to vibrate in the air. soldier’s courage and the moral for opposed to
which the British Infantry is so justly the action of
CORPS OF DRUMS famous. walking
together in
It is reasonable to assume that the MEDALS close
Corps of Drums as we know today formation.
came into being after the Cardwell Traditionally, a military medal is a
Reforms of 1872 although the metal shape (usually a round disk)
drums and the fifes had of course suspended by a strip of ribbon or
played together long before this fabric, often from a top bar. Medals
date. Battalions were still in the shape of a star, four, five or six
organised into eight companies point, are representative of service
with two drummers to each in a theatre of war. Other shapes may
company. With a Drum Major to also be seen. Medals are traditionally
supervise the training and well worn on the left side of one’s shirt
being of all the drummers, it was or jacket, normally on formal white
obviously better to concentrate tie occasions. There are also medals
them into one group or “Corps”. that are worn around the neck. In
The association with Continental the military, medals are worn on
Troops over the years must also clothing of distinctive design worn
have influenced the formation of by members of a particular group as
a Corps of Drums. The Habit of a means of identification on formal
parading the Corps of Drums (of occasions. In day to day wear, or
Line Regiments) in front of the certain military occasions or on
band was copied from the French. simple shirts, they are represented
in the form of thin fabric bars on the
The drums are primarily intended left side of the uniform.
for supplying music on the march.
It is, therefore, of the first
importance that the drummers, and
especially the bass drummer,
should be well trained in beating the

Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display 71

TYPES OF MEDALS IN THE SAF on completion of a further 10 years,
and a second clasp on completion
Medals are awarded for good
conduct or exemplary service. A of a total of 30 years.
recipient must have demonstrated
Medals are exceptional performance in the
awarded execution of his or her duty.
for good
conduct or
exemplary
service.

The SAF Overseas Medal

SAF Good Service Medal This medal may be awarded to
members of the SAF who have
This medal may be awarded to a engaged in operational / non-
serving member of the SAF in operational service in an area
recognition of 5 years of good, outside the Republic of Singapore.
efficient and faithful service in the
SAF.

SAF Long Service and Good Pingat Berkebolehan (Tentera)
Conduct Medal The Efficiency Medal (Mil)

This medal may be awarded to This medal may be awarded to any
members of the SAF who have member of the SAF who has
completed 12 years of continuous shown exceptional efficiency,
qualifying service in recognition devotion to duty, or work of
of their long service and good special significance, or who has
conduct. A clasp may be awarded demonstrated in the course of his
work initiative, thoroughness and
resourcefulness.

72 Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display

Pingat Penghargaan (Tentera) Pingat Gagah Perkasa (Tentera) The
The Commendation Medal (Mil) The Conspicuous Gallantry Medal (Mil) Distinguished
Service
This medal may be awarded to any This medal may be awarded to any order (Mil)
member of the SAF who has member of the SAF who has is the
clearly placed himself/herself distinguished himself/herself by a highest
above his/her peers through heroic act of courage and sacrifice, award that
commendable achievements in or for outstanding conduct and may be
military command or staff work, or performance, and selfless devotion conferred to
performed service over and above to the service over and above the any member
the call of duty. call of duty. of the SAF.

Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Tentera) Darjah Utama Bakti Chemerlang
The Public Administration Medal (Mil) (Tentera)

This medal may be awarded to any The Distinguished Service Order
member of the SAF who has (Mil)
distinguished himself/herself
through meritorious service in This medal is the highest award that
military command or staff work. may be conferred to any member of
There are three grades: gold, the SAF for exceptionally
silver and bronze. distinguished service or
extraordinary merit in military
command or staff work. In special

Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display 73

circumstances, it may be awarded PACE STICK
to any person for his/her
outstanding service in the
promotion of good relations
between the SAF and the military
force of his/her country

WHY MEDALSARE WORN ON
THE LEFT SIDE OF UNIFORM

The Pace Orders, decorations and medals The Royal Regiment of Artillery in
Stick, are worn on the left side of the Britain was the originator of the
carried by a uniform, in the order of pace stick. It was used by gunners
Sergeant precedence. One fortuitous feature to ensure correct distances
Major is a of the human anatomy is that by between guns on the battlefield,
symbol of carrying a shield on the left arm, thus ensuring the appropriate
prestige and leaving the right hand free for a effective fire. The original stick
authority. weapon, the heart is afforded was more like a walking stick, with
The maximum protection by the shield. a silver or ivory knob. It could not
beholder is Considerations of protection as be manipulated like the modern
a trained well as propinquity led the pace stick as it only opened like a
instructor of Crusaders to wear their small pair of callipers; the infantry then
Drill, Parade decorative crosses over the heart. developed the stick to its present
and This may well be why military configuration as an aid to drill.
Ceremonies. decorations are worn on the left.
It is a tool that is used to measure
the pace (distance taken in a
marching step) It is also used by
the Sergeant Major when laying
out the marker points on a parade
ground so that the troops turn at
the correct point and finish up at
the correct point on ceremonial
parades.

The pace stick, carried by a
Sergeant Major is a symbol of
prestige and authority. The
beholder is a trained instructor of

74 Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display

drill, parade and ceremonies. He “bend sinister,” symbol of
holds the responsibility of illegitimacy); the “bar” (a horizontal
teaching various drill movements stripe); the “pale” (a vertical stripe);
and ceremonial proceedings of the the “saltire” (a diagonal cross or
parade to all ranks including “X”); a checkerboard pattern; and a
Officers, thus illustrating his chevron (two lines or stripes
capability and his acumen in terms meeting at an angle).
of drills and ceremony.
When a simple but distinctive sleeve
The pace stick is the epitome of device was needed to indicate rank,
authority and rank. It is a the chevron was undoubtedly
recognition accorded to a appropriated from heraldry.
Sergeant Major to carry out his
primary responsibility of BUTTONS
maintaining high standard of drill,
parade and ceremonies as well as Distinctive buttons have long been a
upholding the highest standard of
regimentation and discipline in the feature of military uniforms, for their
unit.
dual purpose, both practical and
CHEVRON
ornamental use. There is some
The word chevron is French for
“rafter.” As often happens, evidence to support the theory that SAF
however, the French Army today
uses another word, galon one of the original purposes of
(“stripe”), where we use the word
“chevron.” ornamental buttons were to keep SAF Warrant Officer
and Specialist Ranks
soldiers from wiping their noses on – Old and New

the sleeves of their dress uniforms.

When the practice was started of In the SAF, buttons used on
decorating shields, the problem ceremonial uniforms are impressed
soon arose of how to achieve the with the logo of a lion standing on a
necessary variety. Since all tower. This first logo was
primitive design makes use of reminiscent of British influence with
straight lines and geometric its richness and grandeur.
patterns, the earliest variations
were the cross; the “bend” (a These buttons are normally worn on
diagonal stripe from the shield’s the SAF Number 1 dress, Number 2
upper right to its lower left one dress and the Number 5 jacket.
going the other way was the

Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display 75

The purpose The fact that men’s clothing placed inside the mouth of the
of the identity buttons to the right and women’s corpse, being the place most likely
disc was to to the left has also been traced to protect it and to keep it in-site.
identify a back to the days before pockets This was so, even if time and
body or a when people put their hands, manpower allowed for battlefield
badly Napoleon-like, into their coat burial. In all possible cases men
wounded fronts for warmth. With her buried on the battlefield were later
soldier. “protector” on the right, a lady’s transferred to proper War
coat buttoned to the left so that Cemeteries. Without ID discs,
both she and the gentleman could mistakes would have been
slip their free hands into their coat common. The blood group was
fronts. added to the discs to assist
battlefield medical teams.
IDENTITY DISC Denomination of religion was also
added to allow proper burial
Since Medieval times, countless arrangements.
soldiers have been buried in
graves, which are marked with a OFFICER CADET’S WHITE
single word, “Unknown”. It was COLLAR BOARD / GORGET /
not until the Boer War of 1899 - EPAULETTES
1902 that British soldiers started
wearing regulation methods of
personal identity and these later
evolved to be Identity Discs.
Identity tags have become
mandatory in many Armies today,
including the SAF, and it is
convenient and comfortable to be
adorned around the neck.

The purpose of the identity disc The Cadet Officer’s white patch,
was to identify a body or a badly as an insignia of rank, came into
wounded soldier. Should a soldier use in 1758. It has been suggested
be killed, other members of his that the patch is all that remains
Platoon were required to recover of what used to be a white coat
the round disc for return to collar, which went out of use
headquarters to allow for because the ‘Young Gentlemen’
notification of next of kin, without used to dirty it too quickly. No
mistakes about soldiers of similar support can be found for this
name. The oval disc was to be

76 Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display

doubtful theory. The significance of VOCATIONAL COLLAR
white, however, is of great BADGES
antiquity; to it our word candidate
is related. Candidus, Latin Vocational
adjective for white, referred to the collar badges
pure colour of the togas worn by are worn at
those aspiring to high office in the the collar of
Roman government. The same the SAF No.
purity motif is seen with a bride’s 1 Uniforms.
wedding dress. The Cadet Officer’s
white patch probably stem from
this Roman origin.

CAP BADGES

General Colonel LTC and below These badges are worn at the collar
of the SAF No 1 uniforms. Vocation
The phrase cap badge is popularly collar badges are worn by LTC and
used to describe a badge that is below on each side of the collar, 0.5
worn on a cap, a peaked cap or any cm away from the edge of the collar.
other type of soft head-dress. All badges are placed vertically
Technically, however the badge except for Artillery, which is placed
worn on the beret is known as a horizontally.
beret badge. Badges had been worn
on the garments of knights and
lords of the Middle Age.

Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display 77

DRUM MAJOR’S STAFF
(MACE)

Drum Major’s The Drum Major’s Staff was Before the appointment of the
shoulder belt introduced into the British Army Drum Major in the early nineteenth
became for the Sergeant Drummer in the century, the senior drummer of
representative 18th century and it is not simply a “Sergeant Drummer” wore no
of the designation of appointment but is distinctive shoulder belt. He wore
Sergeant used to define drill movements and a standard pattern leather
Drummer’s signal the band. drummer’s carriage which was
carriage still fitted with metal or leather loops.
retaining the The staff is made of Malacca cane The loops secured the drumsticks
drumsticks with metal bands fixed at intervals when not in use. When the Drum
and loops from which is attached to a metal Major’s appointment was
chain. Its overall length is five feet authorised, the Drum Major’s
two inches. When not in use it is shoulder belt became
placed in a sans down bag and representative of the Sergeant
stored in a wooden case provided Drummer’s carriage still retaining
for the purpose. the drumsticks and loops, but with
the additions of embellishments
DRUM MAJOR’S SHOULDER such as the regimental badge and
BELT (SASH) devices. The ensuing years saw
the shoulder belt become more
elaborate as battle honours were
added. Gradually the drummer’s
stick became smaller to make room
for the embellishments until today,
although essentially a part of the
ceremonial “sash”, they stand as
a symbol of the Drum Major’s
original appointment.

The shoulder belt worn by the
Drum Major today carries, in
addition to the battle honours, the
title, badge and device of the
regiment. This shoulder belt is
purchased and presented to the
Corps of Drums.
The Drum Major’s shoulder belt is
made of facing cloth of the same
colour as the authorised
regimental facings. It is

78 Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display

embellished with a silver plated
shield on which are fastened two
miniature ebony drumsticks, the
whole being surmounted by a gold
embroidered Crown and Royal
Cypher, the name of the regiment
is embroidered below the shield on
scrolls. Gold letters and edging
scrolls are as for facing colour. No
battle honours or other
distinctions are to be carried on
these belts.

Ceremonial Dress and Pageantry Display 79



Parade and
Ceremony

The Parade Square
The Review
Eyes Right/Left
Sword Salute
21 Gun Salute
Feu-De-Joie
Trooping of Colours
Retreat
Ceremonial Guards
Changing of Guard Ceremony
Silent Precision Drill
The Three Cheers
Gloves
SAF Day Parade
Welcome Guard
Weapon Presentation
Inspecting the Guard of
Honour



THE PARADE SQUARE The Parade Square

In the British army, when the everyone stands during the review.
retreat was sounded after a battle, The salute will be returned by the
the unit would assemble to call the Reviewing Officer. Others who are
roll and count the dead, a hollow in uniform will salute. Civilian guests
square was formed. The dead were stand quietly facing the flag.
placed within the square and
no one used the area as a EYES RIGHT / LEFT
thoroughfare.
Eye’s Right In the past
Today, the parade ground days, the
represents this square and hence, An integral part of saluting while dress
the unit’s dead. It is deemed to be passing is the ‘eyes right’ or ‘eyes parades are
hallowed ground, soaked with the left’. In feudal times serfs and slaves intended to
blood of our fallen and the area is were not permitted to look at their impress
respected as such by all. master; they were required to stand visiting
aside with heads bowed, or even to emissaries
THE REVIEW crawl past in the mud and slime of with the
the road-side ditch. The soldiers strength of
A review (or honours ceremony) employed by the lord of the manor the
is held during a parade. When enjoyed the privilege of looking their monarch’s
troops are ceremoniously marched master straight in the eye, and raised troops
onto the parade square, a person their hats or helmets as a mark of rather than
of distinction (usually a Reviewing respect. honour the
Officer-rank of Major and above) visitor.
is on hand to take the review. In
the past days, the dress parades The Parade rendering a compliment to the
are intended to impress visiting Reviewing Officer
emissaries with the strength of the
monarch’s troops rather than
honour the visitor. While a parade
is in progress, those attending
stand quietly and do not talk.

The Reviewing Party will have
already marched forward and take
a position facing the Reviewing
Officer, and an announcer will make
the appropriate announcement.
e.g.” The Graduates of the 129th
Platoon Sergeant’s Course, Ladies
and Gentlemen, Please rise”

As the parades are marched in and
salute to the honoured guest,

Parades and Ceremonies 83

SWORD SALUTE 21 GUN SALUTE

The Recovery The Sword Salute Gun Salutes provided by the
Ceremonial 25-Pounders
The sword in The first movement in saluting
earlier forms with the sword, known as the Warships originally fired seven-
was in the “Recovery”, is said to have gun salutes – the number seven
shape of a religious significance dating from probably selected because of its
cross, and the the Crusades. The sword in earlier significance. Seven planets had
position of forms was in the shape of a cross, been identified then and the phase
recovery and the position of recovery of the moon changed every seven
closely closely resembles the Crusader’s days.
resembles the act of kissing the cross of his
Crusader’s sword before going into battle. It Land batteries, having a greater
act of kissing may also have some connection supply of gunpowder, were able
the cross of with the oriental custom of to fire three guns for every shot
his sword shielding the eyes from a superior. fired afloat; hence the salute by
before going The position of the salute itself is shore batteries was 21 guns. The
into battle. a modification of the former multiple of three was probably
practice of thrusting the point of chosen because of the mystical
the sword into the ground from significance associated with the
which position it would be more number 3 in many ancient
than difficult to strike suddenly at civilisations.
one’s opponent.
The 21-Gun Salute would be fired
The same principle is true of either during National Day whilst the
the butt salute with a rifle or the President of the Republic of
present arms. In the latter case Singapore inspects the Parade.
even the name implies the offering
of the arms to a superior. The 21-Gun Salute was inherited
from the British. The 25-Pounder
guns used at every parade also
came from the British. These
guns have been around since
before Singapore gained her
independance and are believed to
date back to World War II. Six of
these cannons will be used and
six men to handle each gun. Only

84 Parades and Ceremonies

the team member does the actual Trooping of Colours is often Trooping
firing. What is more complicated performed during unit’s the colours
is that each shot must be timed anniversary parade and SAF Day before a
perfectly to match the President’s Parade, especially so when a battle
progress as he inspects the Colours is newly presented after assured
parade. consecration. that
soldiers
FEU-DE-JOIE (FIRE OF JOY) RETREAT would
recognise
The Feu-de-Joie (French origin) The bugle call sounded at retreat them.
symbolically portrays the sense of was first used in the French Army
joy and festivity of the occasion. and dates back to the Crusades.
When you hear it, you are listening
Fire of Joy to a beautiful melody that has come
to symbolise the finest qualities of
Originated in a demostration of a the soldiers of nearly 900 years ago.
new weapon before Queen Retreat has always been at sunset
Elizabeth I to show its and its purpose was to notify the
effectiveness, reliability and sentries to start challenging until
handiness. On 9th August every sunrise, and to tell the rank and file
year as Singapore celebrates her to go to their quarters and remain
National Day, the Feu-de-Joie is there.
most appropriately fired by the
Guard of Honour mounted by the This ceremony remains as a tradition
Army, Navy, Air Force and Police today. Retreat precedes the
Contingents firing three shots in lowering of the flags at sunset.
succession of ranks from all four When Retreat is played, face toward
contingents respectively. the flag and stand at attention.
Those in uniform are to salute. If the
TROOPING OF COLOURS flag is not within sight, then face
towards the music and stand at
Trooping of Colours has been attention.
traced to the days of the early
mercenaries when men were
taught to use their flag as a rallying
point in battle. Trooping the
Colours before a battle assured
that soldiers would recognise
them.

Parades and Ceremonies 85

CEREMONIAL GUARDS Changing of Guards Ceremony be
held on every first Sunday
The Istana Ceremonial Guards’ evening of the month and has
main role is sentry duty at the continued ever since.
Istana which is the official
residence and office of the The format of the Ceremony is
President of Singapore. The Istana based on the British Changing of
means ”palace” in Malay and it is Guards Ceremony at Buckingham
where the president receives and Palace, England. Thirty-six
entertains state guests. The Istana Guards and two Guard
Ceremonial Guards perform their Commanders are involved in the
sentry duty at the Istana’s Main Ceremony. The Guards are
Entrance on Orchard Road and at specially selected and trained for
the entrance of the Istana Building their turnout, bearing and drill.
The ceremonial guard duties at the
Istana are performed by the SAF The in-coming Guards march from
Provost Unit. the Yen San Building to meet the
out-going Guards at the entrance
CHANGING OF GUARD plaza of the Istana. The Changing
CEREMONY of Guards Ceremony is then
carried out at the entrance of the
The Changing When the late Encik Yusof B. Ishak Istana with military bands in
of Guards took office as the Yang Di-Pertuan attendance. Included in the
Ceremony is Negara at the Istana on 3 ceremony is a Rifle Precision Drill
held on every December 1959, the Istana was Performance to entertain the
first Sunday guarded by combat troops from the spectators.
evening of the only infantry regiment we had at
month. that time, the 1st Battalion of the SILENT PRECISION DRILL
Singapore Infantry Regiment. The
guards were posted round the Precision Drill was first
clock. There was no Changing of introduced in the SAF in the year
Guards Ceremony. Mounting and 1984. It is a form of drill where a
dismounting of guards were done group of men perform in unison,
within the Istana itself. with precise coordination and
timing without commands being
The use of combat troops to guard given.
the Istana ceased in 1968 with the
formation of the Singapore Armed Every squad member takes about
Forces Guards Unit (SAFGU). In 6 months to train before they can
1969, it was decided that a start performing in any occasion.

86 Parades and Ceremonies

Their training emphasises on faraway campaigns, it was the In the SAF,
physical endurance, mental custom to assemble the garrison in the Three
discipline, co-ordination and formation with the departing troops Cheers
teamwork between the squad in the place of honour on the right. (optional)
members in order to execute a three cheers for their departing are rendered
series of complex arms drill. comrades were then given by the during a
troops remaining behind. The simple Change-of-
The weapon that they are using is notes of the Three Cheers as they Command
called MK 4 (Mark 4). It weighs are used today could very well have Parade.
approximately 5 kg. and 1.2 m in this symbolic meaning.
length.
In the SAF, the Three Cheers
The Silent Precision Drill Squad (optional) are rendered during a
has constantly been appearing in Change-of-Command Parade. They
major events like National Day will be performed without removing
Parades, Chingay Processions, Headdress thus using the right
Istana Changing-of-Guards and hand. The right palm should be in a
numerous recruitment activities. clenched position.
In the course of participation, the
Silent Precision Drill Squad has GLOVES
won numerous recognitions.
Apart from their practical uses to
The Silent Precision Drill Squad protect the hands from cold and
has caught the eye of every injury, gloves have symbolic
Singaporean with precision connotations. They are mainly used
execution of complex arms drill. for ceremonial purposes in the SAF.
The popularity of the squad was Gloves have been used as a
not only confined to the local ceremonial item since medieval times.
audience; it also spread across They are worn when in No. 1
Singapore’s border. uniform.

The Squad was invited to SAF DAY PARADE
Malaysia in 1989 to perform for a
Military Tattoo in Kuala Lumpur, On 1 July 1969, the SAF celebrated
where the squad was commended her first Armed Forces Day. The first
for her outstanding performance. SAF day saw a 1,500-strong
contingent of servicemen and
THE THREE CHEERS women in a grand parade finale and
march past at Jalan Besar Stadium.
This custom originated at the time In a day filled with muster parades,
of the Crusades. At the time, when open houses and pledges of loyalty,
detachments were sent away on the most solemn moment was the
presentation of the SAF Colours for
the first time to the 3rd Battalion,

Parades and Ceremonies 87

The presentation of Regimental Colours to 3 SIR by Mr. Lim Kim San (third
from left).

The SAF Day Singapore Infantry Regiment (3 at the quarters of military
is a SIR) by the then Minister for personnel whose duties included
reaffirmation Interior and Defence, Mr Lim Kim the guarding of the camp premise
of the San. and turning-out at the guardroom
importance of whenever a senior officer or VIP
national The SAF Day is a reaffirmation of visits the camp. The attire for the
defence and the importance of national defence Camp Quarter Guard then was the
the vital role and the vital role that every soldier camp guards’ attire i.e. Camouflage
that every plays in the security of Singapore. uniform.
solider plays It is an occasion to renew the
in the pledge of allegiance to the To optimise the use of manpower
sercurity of President and the country, to resources, the number of Camp
Singapore. remember comrades-in-arms who Quarter Guard has been reduced.
died in the course of service to the In fact, the concept of using the
nation, and to give recognition to camp guards for the Camp Quarter
the best in the SAF. Guard is no longer valid or
applicable for VIP visits. As such,
Today, the Parade showcases the the mounting of the Camp Quarter
SAF as a modern, integrated and Guard has been abolished since
cohesive fighting force that is July 2004.
ready and capable of safeguarding
the security and sovereignty of Thereafter, the Welcome Guard is
Singapore. Thus bringing about used and mounted for VIPs when
greater confidence in the SAF and they visit units in the Army.
instil a sense of pride amongst past
and present Service personnel. The Welcome Guard will be
mounted for the following
WELCOME GUARD categories of VIPs:

Welcome Guard was previously a. Local Visitors – Service Chief
known as Camp Quarter Guard. and VIPs in Group 2 and above
The 18-men Camp Quarter Guard in the MINDEF Table of
mounted to welcome local or Precedence (Only for
foreign VIPs visiting the camp were Introductory Visit).
formed by personnel performing
camp guard duties. As the term b. Foreign Visitors – Service
“Camp Quarter Guard” implies, the Chief or Brigadier General
Camp Quarter Guard were mounted and above

88 Parades and Ceremonies

Sultan of Brunei inspecting the Presentation Ceremony is the The weapon
Welcome Guards point of transformation from boys presentation
to responsible young men, from ... was held
WEAPON PRESENTATION carefree civilians to dedicated in the hours
soldiers. In SAF BMTC, the of darkness
ceremony is held in front of the so as to
National Service Landmark, as a mask the
significance to mark the soldier’s strength of
responsibility in the defending of the tribe
the nation. from their
enemies.
INSPECTING THE GUARD OF
HONOUR

During tribal times, weapons were It is a courtesy that the Reviewing
essential tools for survival with Officer inspects the Guard of
every man being equipped with Honour. In this case he is not
one upon maturity. looking for rusty weapons, but is
returning the guard’s courtesy by
These weapons were used so as taking a close look at the fine military
to safeguard the tribe’s assets and appearance of these select troops.
to protect their loved ones.
The Reviewing Officer does more
The weapon presentation was than pass hurriedly along the ranks
carried out in the form of a of the Guard of Honour. He usually
solemn ceremony, which was looks each man in the face and stops
held in the hours of darkness so from time to time to chat with one of
as to mask the strength of the the soldiers or compliment him on
tribe from their enemies. In this his appearance.
modern age, the weapon
presentation ceremony is a day
when young soldiers receive
their weapons. These soldiers
are to use these weapons in
defending our nation against
our enemies. The Weapon

Parades and Ceremonies 89



Mess Customs

Origin of Regimental Mess
Customs in the Mess
Commanding Officer in the
Mess
General Courtesy towards
Members of the Mess
Mess Hospitality
Ladies in the Mess
Conversation in the Mess
Restriction on Drinks
Punctuality
Mess Initiation
Improper Mess Etiquette