So I've been watching this new anime, Gundam 00. In this storyline, a independent organisation utilises Gundams, which are huge robots piloted by humans, to perform "interventions" in military conflicts. The ultimate aim is to eradicate war, by means of overwhelming force (made possible by the superior technology in the Gundams).
My chosen profession is in the military. The cool part of our armed forces is that we have two major roles (in my opinion). The first is the obvious one, to deter foreign aggression, as well as engage the enemy in a conflict if need be. The second is as a nation building tool, in line with national service.
Some people sign on for the first role, some sign on for the second, some for both, and some for neither. I did it for both. Recently I've been meeting many new people here in Stanford, and the conversation never fails to turn to the SAF, usually along the lines of why I chose to sign on. I believe that it is possible to provide a positive NS experience for all. Coincidentally, that is very similar to the current ACE mentality in the army: Army Culture and Experience. I've been scoffed at by most, since the majority of NSmen have not had a positive army experience, and find it difficult even to envision having one. Nevertheless, I do believe my goal to be possible.
The next most common question is: are you excited about starting work? That for sure I know, I am. I have a bunch of close friends who have similar ideology as I do. I really look forward to our careers developing in parallel and all of us working towards our aims. I am excited about working with the crop of young officers in my chosen formation, a group of dedicated and capable individuals who shine together as a team.
The SAF has not been to war (lets not count WW2 here). I do not wish the SAF to go to war ever. Without even considering the consequences of victory / defeat, the toll it would place on our people would be pretty devastating I would say. Of course, there is no real way I can say that with absolute certainty, but hey History Channel and Military Channel has given me a pretty good idea. In the absence of bloodshed, it has been said that it will be difficult for Singaporeans to truly form a national identity. Hopefully, this is where the two roles of the SAF can come together. While preventing war, we help to develop this true national identity, even without bloodshed. Can it be done? I think so, but the road is long, and I'm definitely pumped to be part of it. :)
