Updated: 10/14/2012 06:16 | By Channel NewsAsia

297 officer cadets commissioned as SAF officers

SINGAPORE: 297 officer cadets were commissioned as officers of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) on Saturday.

The graduands included 233 Army and 64 Air Force cadets.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and Second Minister for Home Affairs Mr S Iswaran reviewed the commissioning parade at SAFTI Military Institute on Saturday evening.

The parade marked the completion of 38 weeks of rigorous training at the Officer Cadet School.

The commissioned officers will go on to assume command, instructional or staff appointments in the SAF.

Speaking at the parade, Mr Iswaran emphasised the important role SAF officers play as commanders in inspiring a strong sense of purpose in their men.

He said, "As their commander and mentor, you must lead by example and make good soldiers out of them. Imbue them with a strong sense of mission and motivate them to serve a higher cause to defend Singapore."

— CNA/cc