We could not have built a strong SAF without the hard work and sacrifices of our servicemen, and the strong backing of their families and of Singaporeans in general. And without a strong SAF, Singapore would not have experienced the peace and progress that we have had for almost six decades now, nor enjoyed such stable and friendly relations with our neighbours. We are friends because we respect each other, and have a healthy regard for each other. That is why, every year on SAF Day, we remember and honour all those who have contributed and sacrificed to build up and to serve the SAF, so that Singapore could get here today. To all our servicemen and women past and present, I say: a very big Thank you very much!
Conclusion
Looking ahead, we see an increasingly turbulent and dangerous world. 60 years ago, we could not have predicted that we would enjoy so many years of peace and security. This happy outcome owes not a little to the SAF and our Total Defence. But it was also our good fortune that the broader Asia Pacific region was stable, and the strategic situation enabled a small, vulnerable country to survive and thrive through its own efforts.
Today, we certainly cannot confidently predict another 60 years as peaceful as the last 60. Nor can we assume that events will turn out as favourably and peacefully as they did the last time. While we hope for the best, we must prepare for the worst. We must never let ourselves be lulled into complacency or caught by surprise. We must continue to stand up for ourselves, to keep our defences strong and ready, and to work with friendly neighbours on regional security. That demands a credible SAF that is respected both overseas and domestically, and enjoys strong support from the population that it is defending.
Soldiers, sailors, airmen, and guardians of the SAF, The SAF Pledge says – 「we will protect the honour and independence of our nation – with our lives」. For nearly 60 years, the SAF has lived by that Pledge. Singaporeans can sleep peacefully at night, because the men and women of the SAF are there – quietly watching, always alert. Now, more than ever, the SAF needs to remain combat-ready. We count on all of you, and the generations of servicemen and women yet to come, to continue upholding this sacred task of defending the nation which we call home.
On this note, I wish you all a very happy SAF Day. Majulah Singapura!
KS丨編輯
HQ丨編審
新加坡總理公署丨來源
李顯龍臉書丨圖源
