Neo Li Fang

My ambition since young is to be a female officer. I aspired to be a soldier and believed in my duty to protect the place I call home. Hence, my family was not surprised when I told them I had submitted my application to the SAF Volunteer Corps (SAFVC) on that very day it was announced in the newspapers. My boss, who also knew about that side of me, was not taken aback either. I am so thankful and was further spurred on by their unquestioning support.

As I penned this piece of reflection, memories flooded my mind: When I first saw the No. 4 uniform with my name sewed on it, the feeling was surreal. All those years that I have dreamt about being a soldier, this uniform in front of me was real. My SAFVC training journey started with carrying all my issued items all the way up to the female bunks located on Level 5. It was very clear - We were going to be trained as soldiers and we would have to work hard to earn the right to wear the No. 4 uniform. It was no longer just someone else’s experience but my responsibility to live out the SAF pledge.

I had to fight back tears when I received my SAR21 weapon during the Weapon Presentation Ceremony at Kranji War Memorial. Inspired by those who had bravely fought for and believed in the freedom of Singapore, and even by active National Servicemen committing their lives and careers to serve Singapore and training new soldiers, I will defend my country with this rifle and carry on their vision.

It was also moments like these where I caught myself wondering – people from all walks of life, of all race and religion, unite to live, train and work together. My conviction to Singapore’s defence was renewed and strengthened every single time, and I was going to be part of it. Thus, no matter how breathless I was, I made it a point to echo this line in the army song loudly, “because we love our land and we want it to be free, to be free”.

My Basic Training and the month of June concluded with a blast – 27th June, our Beret Presentation Parade and my birthday! With the beret on my head, and the SAFVC Formation Patch on my right arm, my conviction to Singapore’s defence had never been clearer and firmer.

Qualification Training as a Defence Psychologist soon followed, and it was an eye-opening week! Under the Defence Psychology Department (DPD), I learnt about the dynamic yet delicate work of psychological and operational assessment and research. We were also taught how to provide psychological assistance in support of operations and humanitarian efforts. Through the Qualification Training, I gained a deeper understanding of the SAF’s mental healthcare system that is supported by a team of psychologists and medical personnel.

What impressed upon me was the rigour and versatility that characterises the field of defence psychology – from factual analysis to dedicated interpersonal communications, both locally and overseas. The development and personal well-being of each individual are building blocks to national pride and readiness, and it all counts towards the defence of Singapore and our people.

During my deployment for National Day Parade 2016, I worked closely with the SAF medical team and para-counsellors to attend to any personnel who might have needed assistance. The role required direct application of my clinical skills and together with the skills and knowledge from Basic Training and Qualification Training, such as first aid and decorum, I was equipped to perform my duties.

It was definitely a priceless experience for me to witness not only the background work behind a successful parade, but also the commitment and love from Singaporeans of all walks of life in our homeland. I am honoured to have been part of the team.

Background information

Neo Li Fang
Senior Psychologist
National University Hospital
Singapore Citizen
SAFVC role: Defence Psychologist