LEARNING MORE ABOUT NS

Over 200 women experienced a glimpse of National Service (NS) training at the Women’s Boot Camp, held from 21 to 23 November.

On 21 Nov, over 200 women from all walks of life “enlisted” into Maju Camp for the sixth iteration of the Women’s Boot Camp.

This marks the largest number of participants to date!

Over the course of three days, with the ladies, aged between 13 and 59, got a glimpse of the training that National Servicemen go through.

They underwent a series of modified key training activities such as the Standard Obstacle Course (SOC), Singapore Assault Rifle (SAR) 21 Tactical Engagement System Firing and simulated firing at the Individual Marksmanship Trainer (IMT).

This initiative was organised by the Advisory Council on Community Relations in Defence and supported by the Singapore Armed Forces Volunteer Corps.

The ladies began their journey with “in-processing” at Maju Camp on 21 Nov.

Each of them was issued an assault pack containing a helmet, water bottle, t-shirts and other essentials that they would be using over the three days.

After breakfast on 22 Nov, the participants travelled to Nee Soon Camp for the day’s “training”.

They started their morning with an experiential ride on board the Army’s Peacekeeper Protected Response Vehicle (PRV). They also learnt how the vehicle’s enhanced mobility, protection and firepower capabilities enabled soldiers to operate confidently.

They had the rare opportunity of “firing” a Singapore Assault Rifle (SAR) 21 at the IMT – a range simulator that all soldiers must undergo training at before they can quality for live firing exercises.

Here, they learnt how to handle and shoot the SAR 21, and familiarised themselves with the different range procedures and commands.

At the Medical Centre, the ladies picked up lifesaving skills such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation and combat buddy aid.

They also learnt how to perform combat medical aid and evacuate an injured buddy under simulated battlefield conditions.

Ms Khadijah Binte Mohamed Fawzi was happy to be participating alongside other likeminded women.

Said the 31-year-old lecturer in an institute of higher learning: “Every single experience that was planned out for this Women’s Boot Camp would not have been as enjoyable if not for the people.

“Now I understand what NSFs (Full-time National Servicemen) mean by brotherhood – because I found my sisterhood here!”

Day Two of Boot Camp started with a lesson in camouflage application. The participants did warm-up exercises and underwent the famous water parade before beginning the day’s outdoor activities.

The participants cheered each other on as they tackled the different obstacles in the SOC. Instructors were on hand to support them and make sure they were undergoing the obstacles safely.

Ms Jolene Ng participated in the boot camp with her youngest daughter, Charlotte Lim.

“I’m proud of myself for completing the low rope during the SOC as it is quite a difficult exercise. I was also happy to see that everyone tried – I think that’s the most important part,” the 47-year-old homemaker shared.

At 13 years old, Charlotte is this year’s youngest participant!

“Despite being the youngest, I don’t feel that different from everyone else. I’m glad I got to learn more about NS and understand that women can also play a part in contributing to our society,” she shared.