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     Commemorating 40 years of National Service

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2007 marks the 40th year of National Service (NS40). This will be commemorated through a series of events from April to September 2007. The theme for the Commemoration of NS40 is "Defending Our Home, Securing Our Future".

National Service (NS) has played a pivotal role in nation-building. NS has made significant progress over the years, and remains as relevant today as it was when it started in 1967. The shared experience of NS bonds Singaporeans of diverse social, economic, ethnic and religious backgrounds. Today, there are more than 342,000 Full-Time National Servicemen (NSFs) and Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen) serving in the Singapore Armed Forces, Singapore Police Force and Singapore Civil Defence Force. The commemoration of NS40 will salute and recognise our NSmen, both past and present, for their services, sacrifices and contributions to the nation.

The key activities are:

a. Launch of NS40 Commemoration Exhibition (12 Apr 07)

The NS40 Commemoration Exhibition entitled "40 Years of NS Experience", will be held from 12 to 15 Apr 07 at Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza to showcase the transformation of National Service over the last 40 years and recognise the commitment and sacrifices of our NSmen, their families and employers. During the launch of this exhibition, the NS40 logo will also be unveiled by Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean.

b. Navy Open House (25 to 27 May 07)

This year, the Republic of Singapore Navy will also be celebrating its 40th Anniversary. In conjunction with this milestone, an Open House will be held at the Changi Naval Base to showcase the Navy's capabilities and operations, and feature various RSN warships and weapon systems. The public will be able to enjoy many fun-filled activities, including ship rides and visits. The Navy Open House is open to the public and admission is free.

c. SAF Day Parade (1 Jul 07)

The SAF Day Parade will be enhanced and will include employers and NSmen for the Combined Re-dedication Ceremonies. An NS40 commemorative first day cover will also be launched the following day.

d. NS40 Documentary (1 Jul 07)

This documentary will trace the evolution of the NS system and the improvements made over the years in tandem with the SAF's transformation efforts into a 3rd Generation Force.

e. Army Drama Series (Jul/Aug 07)

This 20-episode series portrays the lives and experiences of regular servicemen, Full-Time and Operationally Ready NSmen in today's Army. It will provide insights into the modern Army and some defining moments that soldiers experience.

f. NDP 2007 (Aug 07)

To commemorate NS40, NDP 2007 will feature a dynamic display by the SAF and the Home Team that will highlight the security capabilities built up over the last 40 years. In addition, the parade commander for NDP 2007 will be an NSman.

g. Opening of Army Museum (Sep 07)

The museum is a tribute to the contributions of our NSmen towards the defence of Singapore. It will represent a part of Singaporeans' lives and heritage by providing an engaging account of every serviceman's rite of passage through NS. The exhibits will enable servicemen to reminisce and share with their loved ones their NS experience. The museum will also document the evolution of the SAF into the modern fighting force it is today.

h. Army Open House (30 Aug to 3 Sep 07)

To be held in Pasir Laba Camp, the Army Open House will showcase the Singapore Army's diverse capabilities as part of its 3rd Generation transformation. Members of the public will have many opportunities to touch and feel the Army's latest technologies.

i. Commemoration Dinner (27 Sep 07)

The NS40 Commemoration will culminate with an NS Commemoration Dinner at Pasir Laba Camp to recognise the services, sacrifices and contributions of our NSmen, their families and employers. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong will be the Guest-of- Honour.

The 40 Years of National Service Commemoration website www.ns40.sg and mobile website "mobile.www.ns.sg" will go live on 2 Apr 2007.

Source: www.mindef.gov.sg News Release 12 Apr 2007