Day: July 15, 2017

TEXT: LTA (NSF) TIZIAN IBACH, PLATOON COMMANDER, BASIC RESCUE TRAINING CENTRE

The inaugural batch of Special Operations Command Public Order (PO) Troops will be formed by September 2018, and the unit will be fully implemented by 2023.

Made up of PNSFs and PNSmen, it is trained to handle incidents such as riots safely and effectively. PO Troops are equipped with a full set of protective gear, which is used to handle any rioter who comes their way. This includes a helmet, arm and shin protectors, fire retardant attire, gloves, boots and a tactical shield.

PO Troops endure tough training everyday, having to wear protective gear and train tirelessly for many hours under the hot sun. The training also encompasses fire confidence whereby petroleum bags, which simulate Molotov cocktails, are thrown at them.

The rigorous challenges of this unit call upon only the fittest National Servicemen to meet its physical demands.

Upon completion of their full-time National Service, the officers will be recalled to perform anti-crime patrols and public order deployments.

When asked if they are prepared to be called on in the event of terrorist attacks, the officers said that they are confident in their training and abilities to handle such crises. The officers know that their lives are at stake when dealing with such crises. However, they understand it is a job that needs to be done in ensuring the safety and security of Singapore.

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF.

I served my National Service with the SCDF as a firefighter from 2004 to 2006. I joined the Civil Defence Auxiliary Unit (CDAU) since 2015.

 

HOW WAS YOUR NS EXPERIENCE?

NS taught me many things. The calls I attended to while on duty opened my eyes to the world around me. I encountered all sorts of cases, ranging from road traffic accidents and suicides to fighting forest fires.

I was also involved in educating the public on fire safety during the Community Emergency Preparedness Programmes. Serving my NS in the SCDF has been a life-changing experience, and I grew stronger both mentally and physically as a result.

 

WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO JOIN THE CDAU?

My NS experience ignited my passion to help others, and I wanted to continue to do so within my abilities even after I completed my NS. Hence, I decided to volunteer with the life-saving force. As a CDAU officer, I am constantly kept on my feet, and my duties push me to go beyond my boundaries.

 

WE HEAR YOUR PASSION CONTINUES EVEN AT YOUR WORKPLACE! TELL US MORE.

I work at a company that designs emergency response vehicles for the SCDF. My volunteer work as a CDAU officer and my NS in-camp training give me good insights and help me do my job better. If there is an opportunity, I would love to be able to design a new emergency response vehicle for the SCDF!

 

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VOLUNTER WITH THE CDAU:

What kind of commitment is required?
You have to volunteer a minimum of two hours per shift and a total of at least 16 hours per month.

How can I join?
Sign up at www.hometeamvolunteers.gov.sg. Once you pass the selection process, you will go through a 16-week firefighting course, after which you will be posted to a fire station and be part of the life-saving force.

What if I was a firefighter during NS?
If it is within two years after you have completed NS, you will need to attend a two-week refresher course. If you have the potential, you may progress to be a Section Commander or ROTA Commander.

 

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