HE STRUCK (DIVERS’) GOLD

Inspired by his father who was a Commando NSman, 3SG Fong Zheng Wei went from failing IPPT to achieving Divers’ Gold.

Newly-minted specialist 3rd Sergeant (3SG) Fong’s path to the Naval Diving Unit (NDU) was deeply influenced by his father, an NSman (Operationally Ready National Serviceman) who served as a Commando officer.

Growing up, he was inspired by his father’s stories of leadership and resilience.

“His example motivated me to do my best with a ‘will-do’ attitude (and this) mindset helped me focus on what needed to be done… His encouragement was crucial when I faced difficulties during training,” said the 20-year-old.

While studying for his diploma in Banking and Finance at Ngee Ann Polytechnic, 3SG Fong failed his pre-enlistment Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT) twice.

Instead of giving up, he doubled down on his training, working on push-ups and sit-ups at night, and running and swimming on the weekends.

What kept him going was his father’s encouragement and the desire to make Dad proud.

“My father always told me to train like my life depended on it and to see this opportunity as a privilege,” said 3SG Fong.

His hard work paid off when he not only passed his enlistment IPPT but also achieved Divers’ Gold later in NDU – he scored 98 points!

Overcoming Hell Week

Selected as one of 18 Full-time National Serviceman leaders in the Combat Diver Course (CDC) at NDU, 3SG Fong faced some of the toughest challenges of his life.

The course, known for its rigorous dive-oriented requirements, pushed him to his physical and mental limits.

This period was a defining moment for him: "Hell Week was one of the hardest things I’d ever faced."

“It tested every part of me — physical, mental, and emotional. But pushing through was worth every ounce of effort.”

During the infamous Hell Week, he was unexpectedly tasked with leading his entire batch as the Company In-charge. “I was exhausted, but I knew I had to keep everyone moving forward.”

With the support of his teammates, 3SG Fong rose to the challenge, delegating tasks effectively and pushing to meet seemingly impossible timings.

The end of Hell Week was a moment of immense pride and relief.

He recounted the moment with pride: “When Deputy Commander NDU declared Hell Week secured, it was emotional for all of us."

“We had gone through hell together, and leading my boat to the finish line was a victory we had earned as a team.”

M&M: Mentors and Motivation

Throughout his journey, 3SG Fong found inspiration in not only his father, but also his instructors. One standout mentor was 3WO Eng Peng How, whom he described as “the kind of leader (I) aspire to be”.

“He pressed on alongside us, showing that discipline is about shared effort and growing stronger together. He pushed us to rise above every challenge, not with harshness but with the belief that we were capable of overcoming it,” said 3SG Fong. 

Looking ahead

On 20 Feb, 3SG Fong was among 977 cadets who graduated as Specialists of the Singapore Armed Forces in a parade held at Pasir Laba Camp.

Reflecting on his journey in NDU and the lessons learnt, he is confident that he will be well-prepared for his next role in the Clearance Diving Group. There, he will plan and execute critical operations to safeguard Singapore’s waters during national events such as the National Day Parade and the annual Singapore Grand Prix.

“The resilience and discipline cultivated during Hell Week will help me persevere through adversity – not just in the military but in life’s many obstacles,” he said thoughtfully. 

Like father, like son… but who’s stronger? Watch 3SG Fong go head-to-head with his ex-Commando dad in a battle of strength and endurance!