As part of SCDF’s contingency standby crew during the National Day Parade 2025, Fire and Rescue Specialist SGT1 (NS) Mervyn Koh reflects on service, duty and pride.
Before entering National Service (NS), SGT1 (NS) Mervyn Koh was, like many Singaporeans, an enthusiastic viewer of the National Day Parade. Every year, he would watch the celebration unfold on TV with his family, a tradition that never failed to captivate him. “It always gave me goosebumps. The music, fireworks and performances always stirred something in me,” he muses.
That childhood fascination eventually took on a deeper meaning when the 25-year-old enlisted in the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) and found himself contributing to the very event that had once inspired him.
DUTY, DRILLS AND RESCUES
His posting to Central Fire Station marked the start of a meaningful chapter, where every shift presents opportunities to learn and foster a close-knit bond with his team. As a Fire and Rescue Specialist, Mervyn responds to fires, rescues and medical emergencies.
To stay grounded, Mervyn leans on his training and his teammates’ support. “We look out for each other and review each incident to reflect and improve,” he shares. “Over time, I’ve not only built my physical strength, but also my mental resilience.”
Nominated by his unit for an award that recognised his outstanding performance, Mervyn credits his success to teamwork. “We cannot work alone. Strong teamwork and coordination are essential in protecting and saving lives and property,” he says.
One particular incident remains etched in his mind. During a fire at a residential unit, Mervyn and his team rescued a woman and her daughter from the affected flat. After being brought to safety, the woman repeatedly thanked the team despite being visibly shaken.
“That small act made me realise how important our work is,” reflects Mervyn. “There’s a sense of fulfilment when we step in during someone’s most vulnerable moment and help them through it.”
A PARADE SEEN FROM THE OTHER SIDE
As part of his operational duties, Mervyn had the opportunity to be part of SCDF’s contingency standby for the National Day Parade 2024. He felt deeply honoured to be involved in the celebration. “It was an opportunity to represent SCDF and showcase the discipline, dedication and unity that we embody,” he adds.
He and his team were ready to respond to chemical, biological, radiological and explosive (CBRE) threats during the rehearsals and parade. This required coordination and meticulous planning, from preparing every equipment to ensuring the team was ready for deployment at all times. “Every move had to be seamless and compliant with parade regulations,” says Mervyn. “There was no room for error.”
He recalls one particular moment from the rehearsals, just before the fireworks. The crowd was on the edge of their seats, looking at the sky and anticipating the fireworks, while Mervyn and his team stood ready with their radios on, fully alert. “Knowing that we were entrusted to safeguard everyone’s safety while they enjoyed the celebration filled us with a profound sense of purpose,” he says. “We had complete confidence in one another and our training. I will always remember that feeling of unity and professionalism as we remained vigilant.”
This year, he returned to the parade once more as part of the SCDF contingency standby crew. Alongside other Home Team agencies and the Singapore Armed Forces, Mervyn and his colleagues remained vigilant and ready to respond to emergencies throughout the event.
This experience, especially during SG60, deepened his understanding of the SCDF’s mission to protect and save lives and property for a safe and secure Singapore. “Even though we are working behind the scenes, it is meaningful to ensure everyone can enjoy the parade with a peace of mind,” he added. “It also reaffirms our duty to safeguard these moments that unite us as a nation.”
REFLECTIONS AND A NEW CHAPTER AHEAD
Reflecting on the SG60 milestone, Mervyn says the experience has deepened his sense of purpose in SCDF. “Participating in such a momentous national celebration as an SCDF officer reminded me that our work is woven into Singapore’s story, by protecting citizens, serving with pride and care, and strengthening our resilience,” he says. This year’s parade also marked a significant moment for SCDF, with its first Guard-of-Honour contingent in the NDP, recognising its contributions towards keeping Singapore safe.
Having completed his National Service in August, Mervyn is now preparing to enter university and bringing with him the values instilled during his NS. “Discipline, resilience and teamwork are values I’ll carry with me,” he says. “While I’ll miss the camaraderie and sense of purpose in the SCDF, I’m excited to apply what I’ve learnt to challenges ahead.”
His wish for Singapore’s future reflects the mindset he has cultivated through NS. “I hope that we remain caring, strong and unified regardless of the challenges that come our way. I hope we continue to appreciate the people who serve in all forms, not just in uniform, but in healthcare and other essential roles too.”
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