OVERCOMING LOSS TO SERVE STRONG

The memory of her late mother became 3SG Reshma d/o Pulanthiradas’ greatest source of strength as she overcame challenges to graduate as a Logistics Specialist in the SAF.

When 3rd Sergeant (3SG) Reshma d/o Pulanthiradas’ mother passed away on 24 Aug, the pain of her loss was immense.

Her mother had battled Stage 4 colon cancer for five years, but the illness spread to other parts of the body earlier this year, leading to organ failure.

Despite these struggles, her mother had been a steadfast source of encouragement, guiding 3SG Reshma through her toughest moments during Basic Military Training (BMT).

“Whenever I called home crying, my mum would always say, ‘You can do this. Don’t give up.’ Her words gave me the strength to carry on.”

Inspired to always keep going

3SG Reshma’s mother passed away just before the 23-year-old was about to start her leadership course during the Professional Term in the Specialist Cadet Course.

Although she felt lost and empty, she was determined to honour her late mother’s memory by completing the course.

“There were times I wanted to give up, but I thought of her words and kept going,” said 3SG Reshma.

She also found strength through the support of her commanders and peers. When she was overwhelmed by thoughts of her late mother and broke down during a tough outfield training session, her trainers, platoon commander and platoon mates were right by her side.

“They offered comfort and advice…(and) their support helped me regain my focus and perseverance.”

Driven by purpose

3SG Reshma’s dream of joining the Army began at a young age.

When she was a student at Townsville Primary School, she was captivated by the soldiers she saw during National Day Parades (NDPs).

“They looked so smart and disciplined. I knew then that I wanted to be like them.”

Her admiration grew during her secondary school years when she volunteered for NDP pack packing and interacted with Army personnel. “They were composed, professional, and kind,” she recalled.

One female soldier, in particular, left a lasting impression. “She was confident but gentle, and I wanted to embody that balance as a leader someday.”

While studying in ITE (Institute of Technical Education) College Central, the then-19-year-old made the decision to sign on with the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). She also felt that she could make good use of her interest in logistics, which had been developed during her Higher Nitec studies in Human Resources and Administration.

Breaking the news to her family, however, was not easy.

“My sister and brother asked me why I wanted to sign on. But after I explained my passion and seriousness, they understood and supported me.”

Finding her place

Being the only female cadet in her Logistics Specialist Cadet Course came with its own set of challenges. While she initially found it hard to join conversations, it gradually became better as her peers made an effort to include her.

“They showed extra care and always had my back. It made me feel like I truly belonged,” she recalled.

Her toughest but most rewarding moment was perhaps completing the 10km route march. At first, 3SG Reshma had felt like giving up when she experienced severe back pain.

“That’s when my Platoon Warrant encouraged me, saying, ‘You’ve got this, you can do this.’ She even played music for me and walked with me. It meant a lot to me and kept me going.

“We celebrated with a parade (at the end) and I felt a sense of achievement. It reminded me of why I never gave up.”

Leading with empathy

On 21 Nov, 3SG Reshma was among 877 cadets who graduated as Specialists and Military Experts of the SAF at the 61st Specialist Cadet Graduation Parade held at Pasir Laba Camp.

Graduating from the Specialist Cadet Course marked a significant milestone for 3SG Reshma, who is looking forward to her first posting and hopes to lead with empathy and understanding.

“I want to be a leader who goes the extra mile for my team – someone whom they can trust and rely on.”

She has certainly come far – this journey has been one of resilience, growth, and honouring her late mother’s belief in her.

“Her words, ‘Don’t give up’, will always stay with me.”