Alexander Voss

One of my most memorable experiences in the SAF Volunteer Corps (SAFVC) would be the Weapon Presentation Ceremony at Kranji War Memorial. For me, the fact that we were issued our rifles at Kranji War Memorial was a gut-wrenching honour. I have been going to Remembrance Sunday Parades since I was a seven year old Cub Scout, in the United Kingdom. For the last several years I have been attending the dawn service at Kranji War Memorial and have been increasingly mindful of the civilians that stepped forward to join the Singapore Volunteer Corps during Singapore's hour of need in the past.

I came to Singapore in 1998 to work and became a Permanent Resident in 2004. I have had a growing desire to give back to Singapore, which I think of as my home, and play a part in our nation’s defence. When SAFVC opened its doors in 2014, I knew it was my time to step forward and be counted, and there was no time to delay as I was already 45.

After completing the Basic Training, Qualification Training and Advanced Training, it is worth noting that the intensity of the trainings must not be underestimated by future enlistees. You will be pushed beyond your comfort zone but that said, the trainings are progressive and the commanders are there to guide and support you along the way as well. In fact, as German Philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche once said, "that which does not kill us makes us stronger." The training may have pushed us to our limits at times, but this only served to make us more resilient and determined in the face of challenges. Besides, there will be lifelong friends you will make as a result of going through the tough training together.

Notably, my initial deployments thus far have been rewarding experiences. My first deployment was assisting with crowd management, working alongside SAF Regulars and NSmen, at Marina Bay area during the NDP 2015 celebrations. We had to ensure the safety of the eager public by directing the crowds, especially when some rushed forward to get a better view of the fireworks. It was an honour for us as Auxiliary Security Troopers (ASTs) SAFVC Volunteers (SVs) to be part of Singapore’s 50th birthday celebrations.

My other deployment involved assisting with security screening duties during the SAF Day 2016 at SAFTI Military Institute. We were assigned to different areas, working alongside the servicemen and women as part of Personnel and Vehicle Access Control. I was impressed by the professionalism of my fellow SVs as we performed our duties diligently, from the preparation to the execution.

In short, I am very glad I applied to be an SV. My wife and boss were fully supportive of my decision to join the SAFVC and were really proud that I was able to complete the training. The smiles on the faces of my relatives in Singapore made my decision to join the SAFVC all the sweeter.

Background information

Alexander Voss
Chief Surveyor
Alstom Transport (Singapore)
Permanent Resident
SAFVC role: Auxiliary Security Trooper