Unity Hornet Nest

PDS training 18/03/11 .

2011-03-20T16:19:00.014+08:00

Pds Training 18/03/11 .

During the training , we are required to perfect our stunts and practice the whole sequence for the performance in Awards Nights . Although we got the whole stunts right , i personally think that we should do the stunts more swifter , so that we won't look sloppy during the performance . Anyway , we were also trained for our standard drills . We even learnt new drills too , such as the ' ke kanan pusing ' and ' ke kiri pusing ' during marching . Next , we had our break ! All of the muslim boys went to their friday prayers , while the rest ate together in the canteen .

Then , we had FUN , playing gamess !!!

We prepare the water bombs first before startin the game .

many waterbombs for the PDS members !

LCP Xin hui helped to carry waterbombs back to the basketball court .

Basketball + Waterbombs

This game , we are divided into groups of two . there was 3 teams . First two team will have to versus with each other . Meanwhile , the other team will shoot waterbombs at them . The first team that scores , will win and versus with another team .

we had fun throwing waterbombs at the people playing basket ball .

& HE.... SCORES ! ;D

Choosing members in the team .

After playing that game , we proceed to another game .

Waterbomb War

Sir Hafiz and the rest prepare more waterbombs .

SSG Farisia giving us intructions how to play the game .

This game is similar to the paintball game , just that from paintball we change to waterbombs . We also have to knock down Bottles from the opposite teams . The first team to knock down all the bottles from the opposite team WINS .

After the game , some of us decided to use the remaining waterbombs and water throw at others .

Staff Alvin throwing remaining water to someone .

Staff alvin throw water to Staff farisia xD

Staff alvin pour water from the army bottle at me .

After all that , we are told to carry all the tables and chairs back to the ncc room and pick up all the plastic bag . :D

LCP Clarence and LCP Zaki carrying tables back to ncc room .

After that , we had our WATER PARADE !

After the water parade , we took more pictures .

PDS family

haha .

We all had fun during the training .

Thats all , for more pictures , please visit the facebook pds page .

Yours sincerely ,

LCP Diana .

Revived .

2011-03-20T16:03:00.003+08:00

Hello , people .

Since 1 June 2010 , our blog became dead . Now , i was given the job to revive the blog back :D . I hope you guys like the new skin that i've made . & please , do inform me , if i have missed out anyone in the leader chart . Also , do not spam the tagboard & tagg with your real name . Tyvm .

Yours sincerely ,
LCP Diana .

Part C Spec Course Revision

2010-06-01T22:31:00.003+08:00

Part C Spec Course Revision.

Date: 7th June 09 (Monday)

Time: 1.30pm - 5.30pm

*Cadets are advised to have their lunch before coming.

Attire: No.4 with beret

Items to Bring: NCC Water Bottle, jockey cap, Ncc T-shirt and Spec Course Booklet.

THESE CADETS ARE REQUIRED TO ATTEND TO COMPLETE THEIR MUTUALS:

1)HARITH HAKIM B HESHEAM

2)HOE FENG TING

3)SAFFA DINAH BTE MESSERUADI

4)UNNI SABREENA BTE MUHAMAD H

5)YEO JING YING

Failure to turn up on 7th June will result in a 0 for your drill mutuals and IFC mutuals.

I hope to see full attendance from the Part Cs. This is to prepare you guys for your upcoming Spec Course. You guys might wanna prepare questions to ask during the revision day. Do spread to your fellow part mates. Any queries, please refer to CPL Lye Heng or to any of the cadet officers.

C/2LT Farisa Syahirah
Temasek Polytechnic

2010-03-12T23:42:00.003+08:00

2010 Delta PASSING OUT PARADE

Today, Delta's took our last march. Recieved our last commands and led the unit for the last time.

memories played back in each of our minds, sweet and not so sweet ones.while the speech was made by our 1SG Amirah and SSG Hun Ing .absolute decorum was observed as each of those words carried sentimental values.

we reminisced our own part A journey. As recruits, then to privates. Not enjoying the tough trainings one single bit. Complain about the heat. But its because of the strong bonds we had, we persevered and pushed each other on. We motivated one another on days anyone of us felt down. Felt embarrased or demoralised. Going through trainfire with greasy weapons. Handling the not so light weapon be it M-16 or SAR-21. but one thing is for sure. we did it together. that is why we actually have the enthusiasm to learn. We are friends and we stick through the good and bad ,thick or thin and happy or sad.
We ran the camp for the first time, hiccups everywhere. but we learnt. from our mistakes.

Trainings can get dull that is why i try to plan a variety of things instead of full on drills. i thought it would affect your standards but nope. still on par and still achieving GOLD unit.WE are proud of you. really we are. We all cant bear to leave but academic commitments is not something we can belittle and put aside. your time will come later. So treasure your time. Learn from your seniors. Take the good, dismiss the bad.

Remember that what we have done is mainly for the unit's progression. And that is what you guys should carry on doing.

This may be my last address through this blog. So good luck in maintaining if not improving the unit.

cheers !

MSG IQBAL

Bitter Sweet

2010-03-07T09:48:00.002+08:00

Important issues to address:

To the FSD SQUAD, I hope you will not let this setback affect your morale standing. You may not have come in top 5 but nonetheless the whole unit is very proud of you. You never gave up and that is what counts the most. Your effort that has been put in day in and day out for the past one month is greatly appreciated by all of us. I am sure your have learned a lot in these weeks of intense training and having to balance schoolwork all the the same time and that is no easy feat by all means. Your camaraderie forged during this period is very valuable as well and treasure all things you have learnt. If you feel that something could have been done better, than do the necessary ammendments next year. What's important is you guys still participated even with such short time notice. After all that is said, i hope this is a MEANINGFUL experience. You should still be proud of yourselves and hold your head up high.

As for the WHOLE UNIT, this is to inform you that our unit has attained the GOLD unit once again this year. I greatly appreciate all that has contributed to the BUC points, and i hope you will carry on this Gold Legacy. For those who want to contribute and don't know how to, its simple. Firstly YOUR attendance for weekly trainings plays a part. Participation in activities that have been organized is also another area. For all the specialist and senior specialist to be, please do your best at your courses and full attendance is a MUST. All aeromodelling instructors also can get extra point by helping to facilitate aeromodelling courses and hands-on activities. NAPFA grading is one of the contributers.There are many others which at this point of time does not cross my mind so i hope you guys take the initiative and find our for yourself. I hope the current CHARLIE cadets have observed and learnt as much as possible from the 3 generation of leaders which stood infront of you once upon a time. Soon, really soon its your turn already. Feel free to approach any of your seniors for help should you need it. Good luck to the new rising batch of leading hornet!

Cheers!

SSG AHMAD IQBAL
USM09/10

2010-02-13T13:40:00.001+08:00

HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR TO ALL OUR CHINESE CADETS AND CADET OFFICERS!

USM 09/10
SSG AHMAD IQBAL

2010-01-29T23:05:00.002+08:00

To ALL Part C Cadets:

This is to inform you guys that all of you are to meet me right after school on Tuesday 2 February 2010 after your remedials which end at about 3.30. Meet me outside the NCC room. An OIC and 2IC from your part will be selected for the upcoming training. All of you are to attend this meeting reason being, I need you guys to be well-informed on your IC's plan. Also, we want to see people who can plan and execute your plan as good as possible.

CHEERS !

SSG AHMAD IQBAL
USM 09/10

2009-12-21T10:14:00.003+08:00

NCC DEC CAMP 2009

DATE:22-24 DEC 09
TIME:0800HRS
ATTIRE:NO.4

PACKING LIST

$16
camp consent(those not handed in)
NCC t-shirt
School t-shirts
Running shoes
socks
slippers
additional clothing for 3 days
bathing equipment(towel,soap,shampoo etc)
torchlight with batteries
self medication-if necessary
writing materials
sleeping bag
eating utensils(plate,fork,spoon etc.)
Part Cs only- full NO.3

*PART Bs ARE TO REPORT EARLIER. 7.30 a.m. sharp because you will have a briefing from the OIC-LCP Gai Cherng Sean and Commanding Officer-Sir Alan Tan.

My best wishes for the Part Bs in hope you guys do a good job. Someone once told me, you will face challenges in running a camp, but its how you handle these problems that determine how successful the camp will be.GOOD LUCK!

USM 09/10

SSG AHMAD IQBAL

2009-12-14T16:46:00.003+08:00

PDS TRAINING 15DEC2009

ATTIRE: NO.4 WITH BERET AND JOCKEY CAP
THINGS TO BRING:EXTRA T-SHIRT,WATER BOTTLE,LUNCH MONEY
TIME:9AM SHARP(LUNCH BREAK INCLUDED )

CHEERS
ASM 09/10
SSG AHMAD IQBAL

2009-11-25T17:31:00.002+08:00

PDS TRAINING(26NOV2009)THURSDAY

ATTIRE:PT KIT
TIME:1500HRS
VENUE:OUTSIDE NCC ROOM
THINGS TO BRING:GREEN ARMY WATER BOTTLE

It has been brought forward due to Friday being Hari Raya Haji.

Cheers,

ASM 09/10
SSG AHMAD IQBAL

2009-11-11T19:09:00.002+08:00

FIRST PDS TRAINING 2009

DATE:19NOVEMBER2009
TIME:1430 HRS (SHARP)
VENUE: UNDER THE BRIDGE
ATTIRE:FULL PT-KIT(NCC T-SHIRT, SCHOOL SHORTS,WHITE SOCKS,SCHOOL SHOES. HAIR TO BE NEAT AND MEETING GUIDELINES)
THINGS TO BRING: GREEN ARMY WATER BOTTLE
WHO TO ATTEND:

FOR PART A: RAFIDAH, NURJANNAH,ZHI MING, HAIKAL,HARIE,MARDU AND ISMAIL.

FOR PART B AND C WILL BE THE PREVIOUS INTAKES.

CHEERS,

ASM 09/10

SSG AHMAD IQBAL

2009-10-19T07:38:00.003+08:00

2009 PDS RECRUITMENT

•This recruitment is open to cadets from Part A to Part C.
•A selection will be carried out to select cadets with the required calibre to be part of the PDS.
•Cadets that are interested are to write a one page letter on “why do you think that you deserve to be in the PDS”.
•The letter should be addressed to all of the following Cadet Officers – C/LTA Alvis; C/LTA Alfred and C/LTA Jesper and C/2LT Farisa and C/Offr Haiman.
•Rank, name, class, email as well as handphone number of the cadet must be reflected clearly on the letter.
•Upon the submission of letter, cadets are to attend the first training on 5th November 2009. Attire for the 1st training will be full PT kit (NCC t-shirt & shorts, white socks and school shoes) and cadets ought to bring their green army water bottle with their names.
•Cadets are to submit their letter to USM KHAIRI or ASM IQBAL by latest 31st October 2009

PDS may not be mandatory, however PDS has been, is and will always be the platform of which cadets grow . This is where you become the better cadet than you already are. For years, members from this elite squad felt the strong bonds that withstand the test of time. These bonds are developed through activities and hardships we faced and endured. NCC by itself is an eye-opening experience, but in PDS we experience the brotherhood that we can never attain from elsewhere. Learning a new skill is challenging, nobody said it was easy, but with perserverance from you and support from fellow cadets you will be able to execute those fancy rifle drills which you thought you couldn't do. It flow like the blood in you, no hesitation and naturally. The PDS family extend our arms to welcome you.

with regards

SSG Ahmad Iqbal
ASM 09/10

2009-09-13T09:50:00.002+08:00

NCC TRAINING

DATE: 14SEPTEMBER2009
ATTIRE:NO.4
THINGS TO BRING: YELLOW NCC T-SHIRT, WRITING MATERIALS AND WATER BOTTLE.( for those who have not paid for the t-shirt please bring the money along)

with regards,

ASM Iqbal

2009-08-30T17:43:00.003+08:00

UPDATED ON 30AUGUST2009

Cancellation of Monday Training(31AUGUST2009)
Mutuals test for selected part C cadets by Sir Alan Tan(31AUGUST2009)
Reminder for Part A cadets to submit C130 consent form(latest by 2SEPTEMBER2009)

1. Please take note that NCC training on 31AUGUST2009 has been cancelled due to teacher's day celebrations.

2.For those part Cs going for second phase spec course and are taking the test tomorrow are to report in your NO.4 right after you are dismissed ,outside NCC room. *

3. All part A cadets are reminded to submit your C130 flight experience consent form to Sir Alan Tan pigeon hole latest by this Wednesday(2SEPTEMBER2009)

*all part Cs who have attended the first phase are encouraged to come and help out . helpers need not wear NO.4. Just wear your school uniform.

with regards

ASM IQBAL

2009-08-11T17:34:00.003+08:00

NCC FRIDAY TRAINING(OUTDOOR COOKING)

DATE:14 AUGUST2009
TIME:1430HRS-1800HRS
ATTIRE:NCC T-SHIRT AND PE SHORTS
REMARKS: PLEASE CHECK NCCBOARD FOR FURTHER UPDATES ON DETAILS

Part B Reshoot Live Range

DATE: 15 AUGUST2009
TIME:0800HRS-1200HRS
ATTIRE:NO.4 UNIFORM
VENUE:SAFTI100M RANGE
WHO TO ATTEND:
SELECTED PART B CADETS
-Royce Teo
-Tan Soo Yong
-Toh Wei Jie
-Charlene Foo
-Aliff Ashraf
-Shawn Kee
-Gai Cheng Sean

Remarks:
1.Do not bring any camera handphone.
2.Report in school at 0700hrs
3.Bring Ear Plugs

any queries are to be directed to Sir Alan Tan by this Friday.

With regards,

ASM IQBAL

2009-08-01T21:52:00.003+08:00

FULL DRESS NDP REHEARSAL

Date: 4August2009
Time to report: 1500HRS
Attire to report: Half NO.3(NO.3 pants or skirt with yellow NCC t-shirt)
Venue to report: Under the bridge
Who to attend: Selected Part C and B cadets.
Things to bring: Full NO.3, Gloves, Thermometer and water bottle.

Remember to shine your shoes and make your uniform look smart.Memorise the recollection and put in your best for this final rehearsal.Take care!

Cheers

ASM IQBAL

2009-07-29T19:08:00.004+08:00

UPDATE ON 29 JULY 2009

Part A trainfire:(3OJULY2009)

For part A's do not forget that tomorrow is your trainfire. Remember to bring along all the essesntial items including your full NO.4 which includes your beret and jockey cap. Bring along your water bottle, ez-link card and thermometer just in case. and please check the NCC board for the time which you have to leave class. Good luck and take note that this is important so take it seriously. Remind one another.

NDP TRAINING: (30JULY2009)

For those taking part in NDP rehearsal tomorrow, do not forget to bring your thermometer and water bottle. Have your lunch before coming. The reporting time is 1455 hrs . Please be punctual. Attire as per normal. Those who are unable to attend please inform Sir Alan Tan

Friday NCC TRAINING: (31JULY2009)

The board has already been updated. For those who have not paid the money for NCC T-SHIRT/ shoulder tag/name tag please do so by this Friday. For further detail you are to check the NCC noticeboard.Those who are unable to attend are to inform Sir Alan Tan and submit either a letter or Medical Certificate(MC) on the following school day that you come back.

with regards,

ASM IQBAL

Air Specialist Course

2009-06-14T16:27:00.005+08:00

Please by informed that you will be tested on the following components of IFC & TF during the course.

Trainfire Components

- Stripping and Assembling of the M16S1 rifle within 60 secs each
- Loading & Unloading of the M16S1 Rifle
- Magazine Filling 20 rounds within 40 secs
- Execution of the I.A drills in sequence (no feeding, half feeding, double feeding)
- Marksmanship Fundamentals

IFC Components

- Field Signals (Halt, Take Cover, Double Up, Friendly Force, Enemy Force)
- Movement by day (High Alert, Normal Alert, High Crawl, Low Crawl, The Roll)
- Judging Distances (Thumbnail Method, Halving Method *To Be Confirmed*)
- Target Indication (Direct Method, Clock Ray Method, Finger Breadth Method, Fire Observation Method)

Regarding Air Proficiency Test, it would be beneficial to try out the papers provided(principles of flight test set 1/2/3 at this link: http://www.nccair.org/?q=node/10

Lastly, be prepared and do your best in this Spec Course.

Cheers,
C/LTA Alvis

Part C Spec Course Revision.

2009-06-09T13:53:00.002+08:00

Part C Spec Course Revision.

Date: 12th June 09 (Friday)

Time: 9am to 12.30pm, 2.30pm to 5.30pm

*Cadets are advised to have breakfast. Lunch will not be provided.

Attire: No.4 with beret

Items to Bring: NCC Water Bottle, jockey cap, Ncc T-shirt, Training Aid (if any)
and Spec Course Booklet.

***

I hope to see full attendance from the Part Cs. This is to prepare you guys for your upcoming Spec Course. You guys might wanna prepare questions to ask during the revision day. Do spread to your fellow part mates. Any queries, refer to your USM and ASM and they'll get to me. Thanks.

C/Offr Muhd Haiman
Jurong Junior College

Freestyle Drill Competition 2009

2009-04-04T17:50:00.003+08:00

Being the first batch of FSD trainees taking part in competition and training was a good experience; and we got to have a better picture of what American Drills was all about. Being a member of our FSD team was really honourable and we even got to secure a runner-up in Air District despite only having two short weeks of trainings. I personally feel that it was quite a good achievement taking into consideration that we were the 1st batch of FSD team in Unity. Claiming a second in position in Air district came a shock as I felt that we did better during our trainings. Nonetheless, we should continue to train and practice hard and aspire to achieve 1st the next time round. Lastly I hope that we would be able to yield better results come next year.

Article Contributed By: LCP Lye Heng

It was about a month ago since we were introduced to Freestyle Drills and some American Drills, these drills were very much different from foot drills as most of the American drills were executed silently with minimal banging of the feet. It was pretty harsh as we were told to start thinking of stunts and formations just after one to two trainings into Freestyle drills as the competition date was drawing near. I was amazed when we managed to achieve 2nd competing among Air district and although it was quite saddening that we didn’t attain a position in the top 5; we did our best and we will strive harder next year. All in all, the Freestyle Drill trainings and competition was a great experience.

Article Contributed By: LCP Cherng Sean

Freestyle drill is a form of fancy drill where cadets use their creativity which includes thinking of stunts and formations. Unlike the normal(foot) drills, there are different commands for them but doesn’t make any difference as it was basically the same thing. Examples are like left face, right face, about face, forward march and so on. We do not have to bang our feet, which is not that easy at the beginning but had got used to it within days. On the first few days of our training, we had trainings on American drills. After that, we went on to planning for formations, which was actually very fun as we got to have a say in decisions and shared a piece of our minds. Then it was time to think of stunts. I think it was rather unusual as we don’t usually do such things during normal trainings. Weeks after all those stuff, we had our rehearsal, where we always heard “semula” over and over again.

Around 2 months of trainings finally paid off. Thanks to the effort of our Staff Sergeant Farishia, we managed to get into the second place of the Air District. It doesn’t matter if we did not got into the top 5 of the grand finals, as we already did our best. The freestyle drill is something which is similar to the precision drill, except that the precision drill uses rifles while freestyle is about fancy drill. But the good thing is it somehow bonded all of us, from strangers to friends, from friends to “brothers”. There are times where it was torturous, but it was well worth it. From a not so enthusiastic person, we’ve turned into much more enthusiastic cadets, and it’s all thanks to our wonderful Staff. If it’s not for her, I think we would not even be in 2nd place. Freestyle drill is a place where we have fun, suffer together, and even make fun of each other. I cherished the moments we spent together during every training, as it was like a once in a life time experience. Even though 3 hours sounds very long, but when I am in training, time will always past at the speed of light. Also in the freestyle drill competition, we got to compete with the other schools, which were what I think, an honour. I can’t say that the SM was bias or anything as there was no air units which was in the top 5, but I can say that all the top 5 land units performances are extremely unique and also awesome. I can’t say that our performance was 100% flawless but what really matters was that we managed to finish it with all that we had, and that was the spirit that drives us along. Freestyle drills ALL THE WAY!

Article Contributed By: LCP Kuan Ying

NCC Training on 19thJan09

2009-01-15T18:40:00.002+08:00

Date: 19th January 2009
Time: 1530 - 1830 hours
Venue: Parade Square
Attire: Secondary 1 - PE attire (PE shirt, school shorts and school shoes)
Part B to Part D1 - PT kit (NCC shirt, shorts and school shoes)
Things to Bring: Water bottle, Extra set of PE attire (for wet activities)

For this training, we will be having the Sec 1 Orientation to welcome our new badge of Part A into Unity NCC Air. It is compulsory for all to turn up as attendance will be taken. Those who are unable to make it are to produce a Medical Certificate(MC) on the next training.

Thank You,
USM Ruzanna.

PDS Performance

2009-01-10T00:00:00.001+08:00

8 hours a day, twice per week, one long month. The time and effort everyone of you put into PDS during your holiday is greatly appreciated.

To the Part Ds, your juniors have learnt much from you all. To lead by example you all have become, guiding them along when they needed assistance. To this team, you are the "gelling agent", never failed to take the first step in bonding this team. Great Job.

To the Part Cs, you all have matured. No longer the bunch of wishful cadets that hopes upon to execute PDS stunts with precision. Instead, leaders to-be you are becoming. You show your concern on improving the squad's standard by giving quality feedbacks and time to time demonstrating initiative.

To the Part Bs, you are a bunch of privileged few to be given the opportunity to be taught the art of Fancy arms drills. Cadets with knowledge to rudiments of drills you were, to cadets performing with Mark 4 rifles you are; welcome to the PDS family.

Although the performance was not 100% flawless, it was certain that every individual gave their best.
The screams and applaud from the crowd is what you all deserve, for the performance was a success!
Having the "pop" of the confettis marking the end to your performance, that feeling of accomplishment must have been indescribable, well done!

Last but not least, 3 words to all PDS members, PRECISION, HONOUR, GLORY!

* To a team, coming together marks the beginning, getting together makes progress, working together yields SUCCESS.

Team of Cadet Officers

PDS Training

2009-01-05T21:46:00.002+08:00

There will be PDS Training on Wednesday, 7th January 2009.
Attendance is compulsory, absentees and latecomers without a valid reason will be dealt with.

Time: 1500 - 1830 (Triple Science students to report by 1530)
Venue: Outside NCC Room
Reporting Attire: No.4
Things To Bring: Beret, white gloves, safety pins, Army water bottle

C/2LT Alvis

PDS Training

2009-01-01T14:31:00.002+08:00

There will be PDS training on Friday, 2nd January 2009.
Attendance is compulsory, absentees and latecomers without a valid reason will be dealt with.
You are advised to consume your breakfast before coming for training.

Time: 1430-1830(1500 for Muslim guys)
Venue: Outside NCC Room
Reporting Attire: No.4
Things To Bring: Beret, white gloves, safety pins, Army water bottle, light snack(optional), a positive mindset and the willingness to learn

C/2LT Alvis

PDS Training

2008-12-28T13:36:00.002+08:00

There will be PDS training on Monday, 29th December 2008.
Attendance is compulsory, absentees and latecomers without a valid reason will be dealt with.
You are advised to consume your breakfast before coming for training.

Time: 0900-1700
Venue: Outside NCC Room
Reporting Attire: No.4
Things To Bring: Beret, Jockey Cap, PDS shirt(for existing PDS members)/black t-shirt(for new comers), white gloves, Army water bottle, light snack(optional), a positive mindset and the willingness to learn

* Speakers to be brought to training by respective people.

C/2LT Alvis

PDS Training

2008-12-23T16:07:00.003+08:00

There will be PDS training on Wednesday, 24th December 2008.
Attendance is compulsory, absentees and latecomers without a valid reason will be dealt with.
You are advised to consume your breakfast before coming for training.

Time: 0800-1300
Venue: Outside NCC RoomReporting
Attire: No.4
Things To Bring: Beret, Jockey Cap, PDS shirt(for existing PDS members)/black t-shirt(for new comers), white gloves, Army water bottle, light snack(optional), a positive mindset and the willingness to learn

*Please inform the cadet officers of your attendance to tomorrow's training by e-mail if you have yet to do so. Thank you.
E-mail address are as follows: sweealvis@msn.com, sweealfred@msn.com, jespertong@hotmail.com

C/2LT Alvis

31st NCC Basic Diving Course

2008-12-23T11:54:00.016+08:00

It has been about 3 weeks since graduating from the 31st NCC Basic Diving Course, a 2 weeks full-time residential diving course specifically designed to equip trainees with the basics in SCUBA diving, from the 14th Nov 08 – 28th Nov 08.

This year’s BDC witnessed a total of 13 cadet and 4 cadet officer graduands.

Below is our humble review/journal of 31st NCC BDC.

Pre-Course
Before embarking on our journey in the 31st NCC BDC, rigid swim tests as well as stringent medical check-up were put in place to short list applicants that meets the criteria laid down to ensure that we are both physically conditioned and medically fit for the challenges ahead.

The 1st swim test started as early as mid July and subsequently, a medical check-up that included a hyperbaric chamber dive and a final swim test held at the Naval Diving Unit (NDU) in October.

Having passed all these requirements, all that awaited us was 14th Nov, the day we report at Sembawang Camp, Naval Diving Unit for a grueling 2 weeks full-time residential Basic Diving Course. Frankly speaking, at that point in time, we did not know what to expect from the course. Thoughts like “Would the course be tough?” “Will we fulfill the requirements to become a diver?” crossed our minds, coupled with the fact that dropout rate from previous BDC batches were pretty high made us even more uptight.

Day 1, 14th Nov
With mixed feelings, we arrived at the gates of Sembawang Camp, in our no.3 uniform, 8 in the morning. It has been long since we were trainees of a course, falling in, together with Part C and Part D cadets. That kind of feeling is somewhat awkward, but nonetheless brings back fond memories of our cadet days. With our bags packed, mind set, all 21 divers-to-be, set foot into Naval Diving Unit (NDU). The day commenced with a course opening by our course instructors, bunch of professional naval divers of the NDU. We were given a brief picture of the day to day schedule of the course, as well as the course outline.

There are three phases to BDC; phase one is all about lectures, phase two focused on pool training and diving drills and phase three comprised of open sea dive. These phases will make up the two weeks of our stay at NDU. The day went by fast and before we knew it, it was time for us to book out, to spend the weekend with our loved ones and book in at Sunday night. “To take the weekend to rest?” I doubt so, the weekend was more of a time for us to further mentally prepare ourselves, for hell that awaits us on Monday.

Monday, 17th Nov
It was 5:30 in the morning, after a sleepless night, our cabin(bunk) of 4 cadet officers woke up sluggishly only to discover insects bites all over our limbs. With the itchiness all over our body accompanied with fatigue, we dragged ourselves unwillingly to the cookhouse to consume our breakfast. Phase one of our diving course commenced on Monday. The lecture began at 7am and ended late evening. We were taught the theoretical fundamentals of diving, such as diving physics, diving laws, diving physiology and diving medicine.

Although the lessons were long duration, dry and boring at times; nevertheless, it was vital for all divers to memorize what that were taught by heart not just solely because we had to sit for a written diving theory and diving medical examination, but because the lessons will prepare us for our ultimate goal, the sea dive, and to ensure that the crucial word in diving, “SAFETY” is not being compromised.

Fins on, 18th Nov
Tuesday was the day we don our fins(flippers) for the very first time, the experience of swimming with fins was one of a kind. We learnt a new swimming technique, the “turtle-back”. We swam faced up, our face breaking the surface of the water, with our body laid back, and flutter kicking with our fins on. It was tough for some, while the majority got the hang of it pretty fast. By the end of an hour or so, all of us were physically worn out by the “turtle-backing”. It was then that the instructors came up with the brilliant idea, “flutter kicks”. We were in flutter kick position, held in the position until everyone’s feet were off the ground before carrying on with our counts. That pretty much concludes our training for the day.

- like seals, we swam.

After dinner, we stepped into our cabin, a comfortably large room for 4, each with a king-koil bed and a personal bedside closet. For 5 days a week, our bunk mates and course mates plays more than a role of a fellow cadet and cadet officer, but to treat all of them as a family and what that gels us together, the course. In this course, it is essential to strip off our pride, to put oneself as a trainee and sees others as one. BDC is about the bonding and team spirit.

First plunge, 19th Nov
The day that we all longed for was here, no more theory lessons, what that is left ahead of us, the pool, the sea, and our POP. Step by step, we were working towards our goal. We took our first plunge into the dive pool, 4 metres deep was where we will set foot. Facemask(goggle) and mouth piece(breathing apparatus) on, what that runs through our minds were the steps and procedures we were about to execute down under. “Ascend too fast, you’ll have a tendency of burst lungs” those were the lines that were deeply etched into our minds and being continuously reminded. We were excited, nervous, etc, with a ball of emotions, we took the plunge. Before we even notice, we’ve hit the 4 metres mark. Without fail, we executed our E-drills(emergency drills). E-surfacing, Buddy breathing, and Companion divers’ drill.

We completed the drills and surfaced at a steady rate to prevent any chances of physiologically related injuries. Upon breathing atmosphere, we were already panting as though we just did our 2.4km run. Which we come to learn that although while diving we are in a semi gravity-less state, it can be equally exhausting as working out on land.

After lunch, we were introduced to In Water proficiency(IWP) which we had to thread water using solely our fins to keep us afloat for 6 mins and on top of that an additional 2 weight around our waist to further weigh us down. The IWP training was put into practice to prepare us for the ultimate challenge, double cylinders, 30kg, one minute.

After dinner, diving medical test was next on the agenda, many nights of revision was put to use. Similar to the NCC, the passing grade was not 50%. Instead, 80% to pass. The paper was relatively straight forward and everyone that puts in effort to study for it will pass. Majority of us cleared the test in one attempt. Which means one test down, and one more to go.

10 metres, the danger zone, 20th Nov
As the heading suggests, 10 metres was the mark for the day. At surface, 10 metres looks way deeper than it seems and to perform the most tedious E-drills of all, the companion divers’ drill at that depth really posts a challenge to most of us. We also learnt that 10 metres to atmosphere was the “danger zone” of diving. Change in pressure was the greatest in this zone, posing the most threat of decompression illnesses and the tendency of burst lungs. Caution has to be exercised in every action. This was a test of water confidence at that depth and also the endurance and determination of mind over body, even when our limbs could no longer take it, the mind still persevere until we accomplish our drill. That is, to bring our “unconscious” buddy to surface with one man’s power.

It was our turn, and as C/2LT Alfred and I took the plunge, we hoped for the best. Upon reaching the bottom, we could feel the significant difference between 4 metres and where we were, air was much dryer and cooler making it intricate to get the correct breathing pace. I was the first to be the “rescuer”, as I saw my buddy lay “motionlessly” on the pool tiles, I carried out what that has to be done and when all is in position, I kicked off the pool bottom and “finned” as though there was no tomorrow. As we gradually ascended, exhaustion started to creep in, “would I waste the effort of bringing my buddy so high up, yet fail myself and sinking to the bottom again?” those words ran through my mind, I was panting heavily underwater, I almost could no longer hang on, and then, we broke surface. We made it, I inflated his buoyancy compensator (B.C) and we were safe. Then, it was my turn as the “casualty”. We shared the same mindset, he pushed on and we were on land once again.

The Aggressor, 20th Nov
After lunch we were introduced to a few new instructors, only to find out that they weren’t there to facilitate our course for a day or anything of that sort. But, to “attack” us underwater, they are the aggressors. We were left in awe when our instructors showed us a video demonstration of what pool competency was all about. Pool competency is being practiced by all naval divers to simulate strong underwater current causing the facemask and mouth piece to be dislodged from the face. An aggressor will “attack” the diver and remove his facemask and mouth piece, without air source, the diver has to hold his breath and remedy his equipments underwater.

When we were told there were three stages to pool competency with an increment to its difficulty from each stage and we had to complete all three stages of pool competency, all of us were flabbergasted. But, no matter how fearful we were, there was no chance of avoiding it, we had to do it.

Pool competency was a test of mental power, to overcome the fear of not having air underwater, a test of composure and that is to remedy your equipment with minimal visual ability.

My turn came, I felt someone grabbing onto my cylinders, then a hand came down to show an “OK” sign. I replied “OK”. He ripped my facemask and mouth piece off with great force, my hands clinging onto my shoulder straps firmly. He left, I checked clear my surroundings, got into sitting position, traced for my air source and the mouth piece was back in my mouth. Still slightly shaken by the “attack”, I calmed myself down and got ready for the aggressor to hit me once more, this time round while on the move. He did, just as previously; only difference is the element of surprise, absence of the “OK” sign to warn. I knew what would be coming, stayed composed and remedied myself. The afternoon rounded up with everyone clearing their stage 1 pool competency, still with disbelieve how we managed to do it.

Diving theory test was scheduled after dinner, we were all eager to sit for the test, partially because we’re ready for the test after mugging for endless nights but mainly because we just want to get it over and done with.

As the days went by, we got more and more homesick. Missing our loved ones, our cozy bed and without a doubt, the outside food. All were looking forward to the weekend.

The Unforgiving 1 minute, 21st Nov
The plan for the day was simple, complete pool competency stage 2 and 3, and IWP test. We did the IWP before the pool competency. Double cylinders weighing 30kg donned on our shoulders, with our facemask on, buoyancy compensator completely deflated, and fins ready for the unforgiving one minute. The beep sounded from the instructor’s watch, the clock starts ticking from 60 seconds. We finned at a constant rate, ready to react to the word “blow”. We waited… 20 seconds left, it felt like eternity. “blow”, we grabbed the mouth piece from the buoyancy piece tcompensator and gave it a deep hard blow. Breath by breath, the B.C started to inflate, we did it. All that completed the IWP test had that breathless look accompanied with a smirk, reflecting that self-satisfaction deep within.

Initially we thought pool competency 2 and 3 was just a slight variation from pool competency 1. It turned out that pool competency 2 and 3 was much more complicated than it seems and is easier said than done. The difference between pool competency 2 from 1 is that the aggressor would tangle your mouthpiece to parts of your cylinder and pool competency 3 is performed in buddy system, one diver will get hit by stage 1 and the other stage 2. No matter how demanding the tasks were, we had to do it, to live by the diver’s motto, “Nothing stands in our way”. Indeed, we did our best and although many of us had to try it a few times before passing the test, ultimately everyone cleared both pool competency stage 2 and 3. This comes to say that we’ll be dismissed early, we were dismissed at around 3pm and the weekend was ours’ to spend.

By the end of week 1, our course totaled 4 trainees being dropped out of course due to medical reasons as well as not fulfilling the course criteria.

Boat Entry, 24th Nov
As usual, the day began with breakfast at 6am. All of us were energetic and ready for dive possibly due to the amount of rest we get at home and also that we’ve long got used to our kingkoil bed. This week is phase 3 of BDC. Sea dive week, what we’ve been eye-balling since day one, the week to prove ourselves as divers, to conquer the sea of the NDU.

Today, we set our eyes on the sea boat, an inflated rubber boat that is used for divers operations out at sea. At the dive pool, we learnt how to execute the boat entry, which is to dive back first into the water and also recovering a diver from the sea into the boat. It better prepared ourselves for sea dive that awaits us the following days of the week. We also practiced on life-line signals used for tended diving, whereby one diver from a pair would be tied down to a diver’s float and the surface attendant would give directional or working signals to the divers down under by the pulls and bells of the diver’s float line. For example, 3 bells would represent face your line and go right and 4 bells go left. After dinner was admin(free) time, time for us to interact with our course mates, to know more about one another, in a nutshell, for us to chill.

12M Deep Down Under, 25th Nov
We’ve waited long enough and for those that have survived till this stage were unquestionably ready for the challenge. From lectures, to tiring “turtle-backing”, tedious E-drills, Endurance demanding IWP, intricate Pool Competency and to the sea, here we come. We got dressed into our “stilo-milo” wet suit, fully geared up and ready to conquer the sea.

Looking at our point of entrance, the tranquil sea, reflects the radiating sunlight suggesting a welcoming glow. We were among the first few pairs of divers and what that awaited us deep down under was the jackstay line. 12 metres down, a thick rope laid in the form of a circuit for divers to follow and complete a jackstay search. Diving in the sea was more or less as of what we’ve expected. As many divers that have went before us have mentioned, the visibility at Sembawang NDU sea is really low, not more than 2 metres, the sea bed would be muddy and expect to see nothing except for lots of thrash and the occasional barnacle eating fishes.

Diving in the sea was indeed nothing like diving in the pool. First of all, there is higher danger factors involved, like dangerous marine animals, some of which we managed to catch a sight of. Like poisonous sea snake, that was sighted near shore, harmless sea mites, cluster of tiny sea insects that comes in battalion with the mission to suck blood off divers, and also the occasional jelly fish sighting.

We learnt that diving out at sea boils down to one word, “trust”, mutual trust between dive buddies is vital as the main difference between sea dives and pool dives is the ability to spot divers underwater and the situations they’re facing. Unlike pool dives, although during sea dives, divers are marked by a divers’ float, supervisors are unable to see what the divers are doing down under, when faced with any situation be it prearranged or an emergency, both divers have to depend on each other to get out of that situation and that is when the mutual trust plays a very important role.

1 hour 30 minutes was the total duration of our jackstay dive, the longest dive time we’ve clocked throughout the whole course. So, we thought this marked our first sea dive experience. Then, one of our instructors decided to “spice” things up. We were made to do “wet and sandy” at the shore. All were ordered to fall-in facing the sea at the shore. When our instructor said “drop”, we will drop(push up position), when he says “get wet”, we will rush into the sea and make sure that our body is free from even the very last grain of sand or else we’ll just have to repeat the whole process over and over again. When instructor says “flutter kick”, we will get into flutter kick position with our fins on and only till every pair of legs are off the sand, will we get to carry on with our flutter kicks. “fins on”, we’ll don our fins with lightning speed, “fins off”, and fins are expected to come off instantly. The procedure carried on and on, until the instructors were satisfied.

“Will I regard this as punishment?”, not necessarily; because in the first place it was our slow turnover rate between activities that triggered the “volcano” to erupt. As one of our instructors always reminded “It’s either sweet, or cane”, what he says is what he practices and that he performs.

On a side note, time seems to fly while diving and in reality, diving is indeed a physically exhausting activity that one can even suffer from dehydration if not sufficiently hydrated before and after a dive even though the body is submerged in water during a dive.

The last dive, 26th Nov
Today would be the most tiring but memorable day of 31st BDC. Reason being we had to complete Sea Circuit in the morning, circular search in the noon and night dive in the night. Today would also be the most memorable day of 31st BDC as the day marked our very last diving day at NDU Dive School.

“The sea circuits, only a handful of privileged few were given the opportunity to try out.” Those were the words from the mouth of our instructors, and we were certainly honored to be able to be one of the privileged few that were able to complete the sea circuit.

The sea circuit, the SOC of the naval divers and not every mother’s son would be given this rare opportunity. We were tasked to complete 2 revolutions of the Sea Circuit within 20 minutes. To begin with, we are to turtle-back from the podium to the obstacle rope, scale the rope, cross a balancing beam, make a short distance run to the jump tower, make your way up the stairways to the yellow platform, jump of the 5 - 7metres tower, turtle-back for another 300 – 400 metres before reaching shore and finally, running back to the podium. That makes one cycle and to complete 2 revolutions within 20 minutes was a hurdle we had to cross in order to meet the requirements to pass out from the course.

The scaling of the obstacle rope posed a problem to some, but for the majority, pure arm strength with the correct technique would do the job. The tower jump might seem an impossible mission initially, but with days of training at the dive pool, jumping of a 3 metre tower to prepare us for sea circuit, hesitating whether to jump off the tower or not was simply not an option. We just sprinted up the tower, fit on our fins, stood at the verge of the platform, took a deep breath, and the word “Divers!” was exclaimed before we leap off into nothingness. The words that kept emphasizing itself was “Just Jump!”. It was incredible how all of it went on so programmed and robotic, no faces showed any signs of fear or hesitation. The final 300 – 400 metres turtle-back to surface was the toughest element of the Sea Circuit, The shore seemed so far and the jump tower never looked as if it had ever decreased in scale. The final swim was a horrendously torturous experience.
We met our task requirement, clearing 2 revolution of the sea circuit under 18mins.

We then proceeded to our circular searches, all geared on, we sat on the edge of the sea boat and gripped on tightly as the engine hurtles and the sea boat speeds to its destination. We arrived at a datum(float used to mark out a location), executed the boat entry drill, checked to ensure all equipments were functional and descended to the sea bed.

The objective for circular search was to tie down a distance reel(measuring tap) to a sinker(starting point) and pay out the line a metre by a metre, going in circles, in search for a “lost” object which was a blue container. Surprisingly, the visibility was good and we could easily see anything within the 2 metres range. We were lucky to have been deployed in an area where the sea bed was sand instead of mud. We had high hopes and were confident that given such favourable conditions, finding the “lost” object would be a piece of cake. Metre by metre, we went till we reach 4 metres away from the sinker but to no avail. The blue container was nowhere in sight.

We were called to surface, by lifeline signal passed down by the instructor on boat and we did as accordingly. Back to the podium, we found out that all other pairs of divers suffered the same fate as us, none recovered anything. We then learnt that the instructors have not even sunk our “lost” object, the blue container and that speaks why we had no catch.

It was 7pm, we were seated at the podium, listening to the dive plan for our last dive; night tended diving with life-line signals. We were glad that this was our last dive and that after tonight’s dive; we can proudly call ourselves qualified divers. But, ironically, we still couldn’t accept the fact that this would mark the end of our chapter at BDC, and probably even the last dive of our entire life.

On the other hand, one thing was for sure, everyone lived the moment of their night dive to the fullest. Diving in the night was an absolute test of water confidence, the capability to work in a condition of zero visibility and the ability to interpret and perform life-line signals underwater. Night diving was a fresh experience, with visibility that only permits an individual to make up a faint figure even when one’s palm is directly in front of the facemask, we had to wholly rely on our sense of touch and sense of direction to navigate and perform as per the life-line signal. Night diving was simply a fantasy, particles in the sea appeared to glow in the night, emitting a green luminous glow. The view was magnificent and was a one of a kind experience.

The night ended with a rewarding night snack, the scrumptious sandwiches complemented our tiring day and accompanied us as we cleaned up the podium late at night. A quick bathe and our cozy kingkoil bed made the day complete. Diving has come to an end and tomorrow will be an easy day, the cadet officers were entrusted with the responsibility of planning for our big day, 31st NCC Basic Diving Course graduating performance by the cadets.

Easy Day, 27th Nov
Today was “easy day”, we spent the day planning and rehearsing for our graduation ceremony. The day passed really fast, final preparations for our graduation dive performance were made. We also packed our dive gears and accounted for all of them, only waiting to unwillingly bid farewell to what was part of our everyday life for the past two weeks.

Two weeks of hardship and finally, our “big” day felt so tangible; tomorrow, 31st NCC Basic Diving Course Graduation day.

Hoo-Ya! Divers, 28th Nov

It felt like a Déjà vu, that scene of us, dressed smartly in our no.3 uniform standing proudly in front of our family and friends waiting to receive the prestigious Basic Diving Pin ran through our minds and today is where dreams meets reality.

31st BDC graudands performed our last official duty in the course. Some prepared for the diving demonstration/performance while the others positioned themselves according to their delegated duties.

It was 8:30 in the morning and the first wave of parents reached the gates of NDU. As the minutes passed, parents are being ushered and seated in the viewing gallery waiting for 31st BDC graduands’ dive performance. The diving performance by the cadets, and the short video clip compiled by the NDU instructors that illustrated the thick and thins we went through during our 2 weeks of stay at NDU Dive School was simple theatrical and truly heartwarming.

With camera lights flashing, one by one, we shook the hand of the Guest-Of-Honor and were presented the course certificate along with the prestigious Basic Diving Course Pin. What that followed was the donning of the Basic Diving Course Pin by loved ones.

Carrying the pride on our chest, the emcee announced “ladies and gentlemen, may I present to you the graduands of 31st NCC Basic Diving Course” tagging along was a roaring round of applause. Our hearts literally melted. All the effort we put in and the hardship we suffered paid off, for today we are branded, “Divers”.

“Divers, Bersu-rai!”, “turn-check, left-right-left, Divers!” with great impact, we delivered our final cheer. Following next was the usual photo-taking session, we snapped what we could for that was our last chance of grasping a view of our “home” for 2 weeks.

Instructors were thanked, many hands were shook, and phone numbers were exchanged. As 2 weeks passed surprisingly fast, our episode at NDU came to a halt. Reluctantly, we had to bid farewell to our kingkoil bed, our cabin, course mates, and instructors. Conclusively, it was “goodbye” to NDU Dive School.

The gates of Sembawang Camp creaked open, the outside world welcoming us once more. We stepped out, looked back, and smiled. “We went, we dived, and we conquered”. 31st BDC was history, a beautifully written chapter in our lives, a reminiscence that would be kept somewhere deep within us.

With 28th November marking an end to our adventurous diving experience in 31st NCC BDC, we would like to take this opportunity to thank all our dedicated instructors for making 31st NCC BDC a huge success and also to all graduands of the 31st NCC BDC for making the course an unforgettable experience.

Last but not least, to 31st NCC Basic Diving Course, Hoo-Ya!

Divers…. Special breed of men

Article contributed by:

C/2LT Alfred & C/2LT Alvis

PDS Training

2008-12-21T15:22:00.005+08:00

There will be PDS training on Monday, 22nd December 2008.
Attendance is compulsory, absentees and latecomers without a valid reason will be dealt with.
You are advised to consume your breakfast before coming for training.

Time: 0900-1600
Venue: Outside NCC Room
Reporting Attire: No.4
Things To Bring: Beret, PDS shirt(for existing PDS members)/black t-shirt(for new comers), white gloves, Army water bottle, light snack(optional), a positive mindset and the willingness to learn

Twister

Less words, let the photos do the talking.

The improvised twister mat. What a look.

Well positioned, ready for "action". Lye Heng.

Twist it guys. The culprits.

"Oops" his coming under. Struggling to maintain balanced.

Finding his way out? Alif with his "center" at 5.

The girls.

Hope the game lightened up the training and motivated you all to give in your 100% the subsequent trainings.

C/2LT Alvis

2008-12-16T17:32:00.004+08:00

There will be PDS training on Wednesday, 17th December 2008.Attendance is compulsory, absentees and latecomers without a valid reason will be dealt with.You are advised to consume your breakfast before coming for training.

Time: 0900-1600
Venue: Outside NCC RoomReporting
Attire: No.4
Things To Bring: Beret, PDS shirt(for existing PDS members)/black t-shirt(for new comers), white gloves, Army water bottle, light snack(optional), a positive mindset and the willingness to learn

C/2LT Alvis

PDS Training

2008-12-13T20:59:00.006+08:00

There will be PDS training on Monday, 15th December 2008.
Attendance is compulsory, absentees and latecomers without a valid reason will be dealt with.
You are advised to consume your breakfast before coming for training.

Time: 0800-1600
Venue: Outside NCC Room
Reporting Attire: No.4
Things To Bring: Beret, PDS shirt(for existing PDS members)/black t-shirt(for new comers), Army water bottle, light snack(optional), a positive mindset and the willingness to learn
*All PDS members to come equipped with a pair of white gloves each.

C/2LT Alvis

PDS Training

2008-12-08T14:02:00.002+08:00

There will be PDS training on Tuesday, 9th December 2008.

Attendance is compulsory, absentees and latecomers without a valid reason will be dealt with.

You are advised to consume your breakfast before coming for training.

Time: 0800-1500

Venue: Outside NCC Room

Reporting Attire: No.4

Things To Bring: Beret, PDS shirt(for existing PDS members)/black t-shirt(for new comers), Army water bottle, light snack(optional), a positive mindset and the willingness to learn

As the Cadet Officers are currently in the midst of sitting for their common test, USM Ruzanna has been appointed as the stand-in instructor. All senior PDS members are expected to help out in the smooth conducting of the PDS training.

C/2LT Alvis

PDS Training

2008-12-01T12:23:00.003+08:00

To all existing PDS members

There will be PDS training on Tuesday, 2nd December 2008.
Attendance is compulsory, absentees and latecomers without a valid reason will be dealt with.
You are advised to consume your breakfast before coming for training.

Time: 0800 - 1300

Venue: Outside NCC room

Reporting Attire: no.4

Things To Bring: Beret, PDS shirt(for existing PDS members)/black t-shirt(for new comers), Army water bottle, light snack(optional), a positive mindset and the willingness to learn

C/2LT Alvis

Part A IMT

2008-09-11T21:35:00.003+08:00

Part A IMT tomorrow, Friday 12 September 2008

Attire:
Full no.4 uniform

Accompanying Specialist:
SSG Farishia

Good luck to all part a cadets for your IMT. Remember your shooting fundamentals and try to do your best for the test. Please make sure that your bearing is up to standard as you are representing Unity NCC(air). Hope you are able to do our unit proud.

Thanks,
3SG Tariq Idil

Training this Friday.`

2008-09-11T21:23:00.002+08:00

NCC Training for Part B-C cadets

Time:
3pm sharp

Attire:
Full PT Kit ( Hornet T-shirt, school shorts)

Items to bring:
Army Water bottle

Please note that this training is compulsory. Absentees are to produce an MC for their absents.

Thank you,
3SG Tariq Idil

Training Programme for Friday, 22 August 2008

2008-08-21T20:43:00.002+08:00

Training as per normal for Part A-C cadets.

Attire
Full No.4 Uniform

Time:
3PM Sharp.

Items to Bring:
NCC Hornet T-shirt, Army water bottle.

Note to all cadets, please be punctual for the training. Latecomers must have a valid reason. Absentees must also have a valid reason and they are to produce an MC for their absents. For cadets who has not paid for the NCC T-shirt, you are to bring along the amount of money tomorrow to pay to Mr Alan Tan.

Thank you,
3SG Tariq Idil

Training Programme for Friday

2008-08-14T20:20:00.003+08:00

Training as usual for Part A-C cadets.

Date:
15 August 2008

Time:
3pm Sharp

Items to bring:
Hornet T-shirt, army water bottle and a small notebook and a pen for part c's.

All cadets are to be punctual for trainings. Latecomers must have a valid reason. Please note that the training is compulsory and that and MC must be produced for your absents. Disiplinary actions would be taken against absentees without a valid reason.

Thank you,
3SG Tariq Idil

43rd National Day Parade

2008-08-09T21:39:00.005+08:00

Happy National Day Parade to everyone

A long time has passed since I last accessed this blog. I’d like wish everyone a happy National Day. 43 years has passed since Singapore gained independence. Since than, our country has blossomed into a first world nation with first class airports and ports with access to 600 ports in 123 countries around the world. An annual tradition for Unity Secondary school in celebrating National Day is to start off with a parade. Every year, different uniform groups are given an opportunity to run the parade. For this year’s parade, we have NPCC and Scouts running it. Although our unit did not get the opportunity to do so this year, we still managed to show our support in the supporting contingent. I would like to thank those who are not in the supporting contingent for wearing the No.3 uniform to show their support.

For the PDS members, you have put up an excellent performance. The performance was exhilarating and memorable despite the lack of time given to prepare for it. Congratulations to all the performers, especially to LCP Khairi, LCP Sarah and 3SG Alvin Ho for pulling off the ‘one hand spin’.

Here are some photos taken after the rehersal. More to come in future posts.

Thank you,
3SG Tariq Idil

Training Programme For Friday, 1 August 2008

2008-07-31T22:22:00.002+08:00

NCC Training for All cadets from Part A-C

Time:
3pm sharp

Attire:
Full PT kit

Items to bring:
Army water bottle, pen and a small note book.

Please note that attendance is compulsory. Disiplinary actions will take place if absentees do not have a valid reason. Cadets are to produce an MC if they are absent.

Thank you,
3SG Tariq Idil

NDP Training Notice

2008-07-30T21:23:00.004+08:00

Training for PDS members who are performing for NDP,

Date/Time:
Thursday 31 July 2008/ 3pm

Attire:
Full no.4 uniform

Items to bring along:
Bring along a PDS shirt or black training t-shirt, army water bottle and gloves.

Attendance is compulsory, please be in your full no.4 uniform by 3pm outside the NCC room. Also note that this training is compulsory for all RESERVES for the performance.

Thank you,
3SG Tariq Idil

Training This Friday, 25th July 2008

2008-07-24T21:58:00.006+08:00

Training Programme for all NCC cadets from Part A-C.

Date/Time:
3pm-6.30pm

Attire:
Full no.4 uniform

Items to bring:
Hornet T-shirt, Army water bottle, writting materials.

All cadets are to be punctual for trainings. Disiplinary actions would be taken against cadets who are absent without any valid reason. You are required to produce an MC if you are absent. Do take note that your bearings must be up to standard. Disiplinary actions might be taken against you if your turn out is not up to standard.

Thats all for now,
3SG Tariq Idil

MilkRun 2008

2008-07-09T11:02:00.005+08:00

2008 MILK RUN

6th of July (Sunday)

We took part in the"MilkRun" CIP Programme. The Unit gathered and had a short briefing; we board the bus and headed to the "Milkrun" location which was beside River Valley Primary School. Helpers went off helping & Runners waiting for their time slot to start running together.

The Runners did their 4.5km around Boat Quay; with the helpers giving cups of water to Runners at the Water Point. All the runners completed their run and the helpers did their job, each of the helpers and runner deserve their credits.

The Helpers at Water Point

Runners

A smile would brighten up everyone’s day.

At the finishing point.

Though this is just a small running competition, but I believe most had lots of fun. Times when we ought to be serious, we have to be serious but when it time to have fun we all have lots of fun! Its Logic, just like you study hard you play hard.

NCC isn’t a CCA which it just about Drills & scolding, Yes, sometime scolding is needed to improve our standards and discipline but think of it without the scolding we wouldn’t be in this kind of high standards.

Each of every Cadet has their own unique abilities & styles of teaching their own fellow Cadets.

Have a Blessing day ahead!

Cheers!

3SG HunIng

{/Edited post on behalf on 3SG Huning}
USM ShuJun

Training notice

2008-07-08T22:16:00.006+08:00

NCC Training Programme @ 11th July 2008 (Part A to Part C)

Date / Time:
11th July ’08 (Fri), 3pm

Attire:
ALL – Full No.4 Uniform

Additional Items to Bring:
ALL – Hornet T-Shirt, Army Water bottle
Part C – Pen & Notebook

All cadets are to be punctual for trainings. Attendance is COMPULSORY.
You are required to present an MC or a letter if you are absent.
Disciplinary actions will be taken against you if you are absent without a valid reason.
Please also ensure that your bearings are up to standard as you don the NCC Uniform.

Thank you,
USM ShuJun

2008-07-07T14:03:00.003+08:00

AEROMODELLING INSTRUCTOR COURSE

16 JUNE 2008- We arrived at the NCC HQ, and we were brieved by C/offcrs and a short introduction by MAJ(NCC)Gary Pek on the program. We were then assigned into 2 groups and allocated bunks. Then we started on our first lecture of Basic P.E.E. After our lecture, we had our lunch. After that, the first group went on for their flying while the other group learnt how to construct their very own electric line control plane. It was our first flying lesson. We were guided by an instructor to get a feel of flying first.Though we had to wait for some time as there were alot of people to try flying it, the feeling of flying the plane for the first time was thrilling.After crafting our plane and flying, we had our dinner, then proceeded to the theatrette for our cohesion night where we watched a movie, Top Gun. Then we had our night snack and proceeded to our respective bunks. Lights out!

17 JUNE 2008- After our breakfast, we had our Glow VS Electric Lecture. Then we went back to the flying field to proceed for our solo-flying training, and the others went back to the Aeromodelling Centre to continue with their crafting of planes. We then had our Principles of Flight and Safety and Maintenance lecture. We had our dinner later on, and took our Basic P.E.E and Glow V.S Electric test. Which was followed by Anatomy of Aircraft lecture. We then had our night snack and one by one were called out to the theaterette for our Safety and Maintenance oral test. Once that was completed we went back to our bunks to end the long day.

18 JUNE 2008- It was the last day of our Aeromodelling course. After our breakfast, one group took their Principles of Flight test, while the others went for their Solo flying test, vice versa.We then completed crafting our plane, and took our last test of the day, the Anatomy of Aircraft. The day was ended with the Graduation Ceremony.

By: LCP Iqbal
LCP Sarah Molina Yap

Congrats on passing out as an Aeromodelling Instructor.

Thanks,
3SG Alvin Ho

NCC Training

2008-07-03T20:32:00.004+08:00

To All NCC Cadets,
There would be an NCC training this Friday (4th July 2008)

Venue: School
Items to bring: NCC Hornet T-shirt, water bottle
Attire: No.4 uniform
Time: 3.30pm-6.30pm

All cadets are to be punctual for trainings. Please ensure that your bearings are up to standard. Disciplinary actions might be taken against you if your turn out isn't up to the standard. Do note that the training is COMPULSORY. You are required to present an MC or a letter if you are absent. Disiplinary actions will be taken against you if you are absent without a valid reason.

Thats all for now,
3SG Tariq Idil

A Reminder For All

2008-06-29T21:30:00.003+08:00

Please be reminded that the NCC day is on this coming Tuesday.
Report at the parade square at 8am sharp. Do not be late.
Bearing must be in tip top condition. Uniforms starched, boots polished and beret seasoned.
Do refer to the earlier post by Sir Azril regarding the guidelines of the no.3 uniform.

Thank You,
2SG Ruzanna

Meeting for Part Cs

2008-06-29T16:03:00.004+08:00

Please be informed that there will be a meeting on Monday 30 June 2008 outside the NCC room at 2.30pm sharp.
Spread the message around once you read this post.
It's is compulsory for all.
If you are unable to make it, please inform me the reason why as soon as possible.

Thank You,
2SG Ruzanna((:

2008 Air Specialists

2008-06-15T21:55:00.005+08:00

The Specialists-to-be are finally Qualified Specialists.

A new batch of Unity NCC Air Specialists were borned
on 14th June after three rigorous days of drills and
being put to tests and assessment's.
Marching up and down the same familiar stretch of road to and fro.
Singing cheers as a whole platoon.
All the sweat, the joy, the tears during the short span of three days.

Test after test we sat for.
General Specialist knowledge, which accesses
ones knowledge of the NCC.
Air proficiency, the air syllabus, which is what signifies and distinguishes us as an Air Cadet,
which separates us and stand out from the rest, the Land and the Sea.
Mutuals, imparting the knowledge to fellow platoon mates.
And lastly the basics of what we had learnt from the Sec 1 days.
The individual field craft and the trainfire.
The movements for the IFC were instinctive, embodied in the blood of a soldier.
The trainfire execution were swift like a soldier who knows the rifle well.

And each cadet was put to the test,
and we saw how each other fared amongst the rest.
To qualify for a 2SG looks easier than it seems.
But as a matter of fact it is not that simple.
Hardwork and determination has to be put in
to attain that piece of insignia.
We do not merely excel in just school work
We also make sure we are equally skilled in
specialised genres like foot drills, arm drills.
Judging by the few numbers of 2SG's in each platoon,
an inference could be made and proves that it is not easy to be one.
The cream of the crop, the best among the elites

But being a 2SG isn't everything.
It's more of the sought-after RSAF/NCC badge,
held in awe by anyone who sees the badge on your uniform,
That distinguishes you as an Air Specialist.
Holding you in high regard of what you had gone through,
and the respect you earn and hold during the past years in NCC.

We were all anxious when the time came to officially pass out.
The feeling of joy and euphoria rushed in our blood.
It was the moment of truth.
As soon as it came, it was over.
Holding on to a envelope containing our insignia and badges.
And before we knew it, we were already specialists.

Congratulations.

Let us Specialists, sustain and carry Unity NCC Air's name to even greater heights,
Where the legacy unfolds...

Written by,
2SG Shu Jun
(With the help of 2SG Ruzanna)

Site Under Construction..

2008-06-09T01:23:00.001+08:00

Congrats

2008-06-06T21:38:00.003+08:00

Congragulations to those who have sucessfully completed their:
1' Star Kayaking course
Gold Wing course

Enjoy your holidays :D
CPL Shu Jun

Just A Reminder

2008-05-29T19:11:00.004+08:00

To All NCC Cadets going for the June 2-3 Camp,

Please be reminded to BRING ALONG $10 to pay for the camp fees.
For those cadets who have yet to submit their consent forms,
please bring them along and submit it with the camp fees. Also
remember to be punctual for the camp. Ensure that your bearing
is proper. Disiplinary actions might be taken against you if your
turnout isn't perfect.

That is all for now,

CPL Tariq Idil

Meeting

2008-05-27T19:13:00.003+08:00

Part C's

There is a meeting on Thursday 29th, 2:30pm
outside the NCC room regarding the June Camp issues
by order of Mr Alan Tan.
Please also do stay behind tomorrow after the Gold Wing course
to discuss and plan more details for the camp itself.

Please also forward Mr Tan's E-mails to those that did not receive them
and help to pass on this notice.
Do print out a set of the camp materials attached in the E-mails.
Please check your Inbox for further updates by Mr Tan.

Thank you very much,
CPL ShuJun

Blog Re-vamp

2008-05-25T22:18:00.002+08:00

I have just changed the NCC blog skin.
It is not fully completed yet as im still adjusting the codes so,
please do give constructive feedback on which areas that
could be further improved.
Thank you

CPL Shu Jun

Gold Wing Course

2008-05-25T11:01:00.005+08:00

* ATTENTION

To the all Part C's cadets who are going for the Gold Wing,

Please be minded that tomorrow is the Gold Wing Course.
It will be very important for you guys in order to proceed on to
the Specialist course.

Those who want to go to Paya Leba Airbase together,
Please meet at Yew Tee MRT Station
at 6am SHARP latest by 6.15am.
We will not be waiting for latecomers.

Please dress in No. 3.
Bearing to be at TIP-TOP condition.
Please bring along some writing materials
and your Aviation Knowledge booklet that is given
by Mr Tan.

By,
CPL Alvin Ho

Attention Part A Cadets

2008-05-05T16:11:00.006+08:00

Electric Aeromodeling Course:

Date: 7 May 2008 (Wed)
Venue: Amoy Quee Camp HQ NCC, MPH
Attire: No.4 Uniform
Time: 1155-1700
Items to bring: Writting Materials

Leave your class rooms at 11.55am and change into your No.4
uniform. Take a quick lunch and fall in outside the NCC room
with all your belongings.

Please ensure that your uniform is in tip-top condition as you
are representing Unity NCC.

-CPL Tariq

Unit pictures

2008-04-14T18:33:00.009+08:00

UNITY NCC AIR

Alpha Company '08
Bravo Company '08
Charlie Company '08
Delta Company '08

UNITY NCC AIR SOARING TO GREATER HEIGHTS.

SSG Farisa Syahirah

Guide to: The No.3

2008-04-01T22:35:00.007+08:00

Dear esteemed cadets of Unity Air Cadet Corps. Let me first and foremost introduce the importance of the uniform. The uniform is the face of our unit and the only external display of your attitude, turnout and bearing towards the public. A sloppy uniform depicts an irresponsible cadet who has poor attitude.

To be a good cadet, one must have a good uniform. Thus the following provides the essential tips and know-how of uniform wearing.

This Friday, there would be uniform checking. ALL CADETS are expected to bring their No.3 and to be inspected by C/LTA Siti Hajar for defects or flaws. If any is found, he or she would be told to wear it again on the 11th of April, where C/LTA Muhd Azril would be checking instead.

You have been advised.

This is the Air No.3. As you can see from the picture above. This is the standard that is required of you come this Friday's training.

Ironing
Ironing is almost an art. When you look at a well-pressed uniform, you would have a tendency to be impressed with the cadet. The standard that is expected of both boys and girls through the examples depicted are as follow:

ALL lines to be hard pressed and to be able to "stand".
The uniform must NOT have a single crease at all (no crumples whatsoever)
The pants must be have a line that is visible from top to bottom

Boys - Things to look out for (from head to toe)

Beret - A seasoned beret must have the crest aligned with the left eye
Collar - Ironed and standing straight preferably with starch.
Epaulet - Ironed and flattened and as thin as possible.
School Tag - To be MACHINE SEWED at least one finger or 1.5cm below the Epaulet
Rank - To be MACHINE SEWED one finger below the School Tag
Name Tag - To be placed immediately on TOP OF THE SEAM of the right breast pocket
Shirt - To be tucked in all the way
Belt - Refer to example below
Pants - To be pressed till the lines are visible and straight
Socks - No ankle socks and it has to be black
Shoes - Has to be at all times; glossy.

Girls - Things to look out for

Beret - Same as Guys
Hair net - No excuses. Hair net to be with you AT ALL TIMES.
Collar - Ironed and standing straight preferably with starch.
School Tag - To be MACHINE SEWED at least 1.5 cm or one finger below your shoulder seam
Rank - To be MACHINE SEWED one finger below the School Tag
Name Tag - To be placed in line with the second button of the shirt
First row of badges - In line with name tag
Skirt - To be at hip level and MUST reach knee length.
Socks - Black and at least 3 fingers above ankle
Shoes - Has to be at all times; glossy.

Cheers,
C/LTA Muhd Azril
48th CLT Course
2nd Intake of Unity Air Cadets

To be the Best that we can be

Badge Arrangement (For Bs and Cs)

2008-03-26T22:26:00.001+08:00

NCC Badge Arrangement (For Part Bs and Cs)

Right Side of No.3 Shirt

· NE Badges - to be centralised above the name tag. (so far you guys only have at least one)

· Name tag – directly above the Right breast-pocket

· Total Defence Bronze/Silver/Gold – on right breast-pocket

Left Side of No.3 Shirt

· Orienteering Badge (only for those who competed in the competition) – centralised above the left-breast pocket

· One-Star Kayaking Badge – on left breast-pocket

Left Sleeve of No.3 Shirt

· NAPFA Badge – to be pinned in the space between the chevron and the curve.

USM Muhd Haiman

The Stepping Stones..

2008-03-24T23:55:00.013+08:00

Sometimes a day may not be all that eventful. Sometimes it can be dead boring. Sometimes you sleep through one whole day, and yes, sometimes its a waiting day, waiting for another moment to come, a period of time when u feel nothing seem better than the next day.

Fortunately, today wasn't a waiting day for me. Wasn't like any other day that long awaits for the next eventful day. Promotion, awards, praises, congratulations, and not forgetting the upbraids from our seniors, this are the little things that undeter me from coming to NCC every single training.

I would like to take the opportunity to firstly,
congratulate our seniors, the Part D/D1’s, whom
some were promoted to the next rank in the hierarchy.
And not forgetting the new internally promoted Staff Sergeants:
SSG Fadli, Ameen, Zhen Wei & Pravin.

And to the 5 Part B's who were awarded the Civil Defence badge.
It is sheer hard work and determination that what you put
into NCC, is what you will achieve in the end like what
Sir Adrian had hinted out during the training.
Feeling the joy and the element of euphoria in you after
getting what you deserve, the hard work you had put in.

We would also like to express our warmest gratitude to
the Part D’s who will be stepping down in a few short days,
for their amount of commitment and hard work they had put in
over the span of 4 years in NCC.
Shaping the unit into what it is today.
Unity NCC (Air), at the top, where we are incomparable

The Part D’s have put in so much effort in grooming and moulding
the Part C’s to be leaders, in preparation to take over the unit.
Emphasizing and stressing time and time again why effort, commitment and
dedication is important to achieve something particular.
Without an input, there cannot be an output.
Benefitting optimally from what knowledge they impart to us significantly

The Part D’s are the pillars of the unit, just like the frame structure
in design architecture, or the skeletal system of your body. Without them the unit would just collapse
They are role models and influencing fellow cadets to aspire
to their highest potential in not just NCC trainings and activities, but also
academically wise.
To create a positive mentality and to nurture cadets.
This will facilitate esprit de corps and maintain a high level of morale
and cohesiveness in the unit.

And it is their team spirit, their togetherness in whatever happens.
When faced with uncertainty, they work together as a team to overcome that obstacle
together. The bonding after time and time of overcoming obstacles, strengthens,
and this bonds brings them even closer than ever.

Just like what you learn in physics.
The intermolecular bonds are just like the bonds between fellow cadets.
We are the molecules.
Always faced with problems and obstacles.
We choose to ignore the problem, there will be certain circumstances.
But if we tackle the problem as a whole, with togetherness, then it will be a totally different story.

It is a solemn event where annually the Sec 4’s will
have to step down from their CCA to concentrate on their
GCE ‘O’ levels which are coming soon in the later part of the year.
We wish them all the best on their on coming major examinations
And will dearly miss them…
Once again, a big Thank you on behalf of everyone to the Part D’s

"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them."

CPL Shu Jun

Soaring to greater heights..(Part 2; Bravos)

2008-03-14T22:48:00.006+08:00

Finally, FINALLY, I am able to bring myself to blog. Back to the community that I deeply embrace. The place that made me the person I am now.

It has been dinosaur times since I last updated. But my absence wasn't a complete waste of time. It was a new discovery. And only now have I converge my euphoria for this new discovery to be shared. There were many opportunities to blog. To put a statement, to reflect on every pitstop of our lives. Yet the sad lack of enthusiasm, the loss of passion deters me from reaching a conclusion in life. It wasn't I didn't feel like blogging but it was merely the difficulty of expressing myself. But at least, now, I can reflect again.

Now, as promised in my previous entry, I'll write about things that will sauced the flavour of Unity NCC(Air) and this time, as promised, I'll write about the Bravos.

In NCC, Bravo is the stage of metamorphosis where man will witness a drastic change in the attitude and fortitude of the human race. It is a period where we see Oliver Twist transfigure to Ritz Carlton and let me tell you that its not easy. It is a point where the unfateful people of the Bravos go through some turbulent times, navigating through stormy waters and blustery winds. To muster all wits and skills to overcome imminent challenges coming in all shapes and sizes is momentous in order to achieve the goals that had been set upon them. Again, it is not easy. It has never been easier than this.

I recalled the moments of tears and joy back then when I was in Part B. Every week, every training we were bombarded with many theories, several fundamentals and not forgetting the words of wisdom from our seniors. There's too much to learn, too much to absorb that some of the things that were prepared on the dining table to feed us never got touch. Never became the nourishment that entice us to indulgence. The food of contemplation. But look at us now.....

"No comments."

Everyday marks another step towards the final discovery that we long awaits. The final destiny we have for the next upcoming year. Eventhough its kinda true that to be amongst the top 5 one will have a brighter chance of success in NCC but I heard from others, and even myself saying,

"Ranks not important, its just a piece of cloth. What's important is being happy with what you are, being contented with what is expected of you, the only thing we should gain in the end are the lessons learnt and respect from others".

Thinking through these lines, did I really gain any respect through the 4 years I had in NCC? Did I really know my strengths that determines me, of what I should be and what I can be? I do not want others to think that I got what I wanted because of my temper, because of the physical turmoil and the mental tortures I gave to all.. I do not want other people's weaknesses be my strengths. I want to find my own strengths, my own qualities that really determines my rank, my post.. I want others to see me through my unique qualities..

This, Part B, is what you all should have in mind everytime you step on the dull grey concrete slab we call home... Our Parade Square. Because the very moment you step on that dull grey concrete slab, you are no longer human. You are something else. You Are A Leader, all of you... A special one in the very heart of your alma mater.

"Everyone is himself a leader. What distinguishes one from another is their unique abilities and styles."

2SG Muhammad Alfi BMR

Soaring to greater heights..(Part 1; Alphas)

2008-02-22T23:37:00.005+08:00

As always, a momentary solitude from blogging and I am not used to writing again. There's this massive output in my head awaiting to be discharged systematically, sorted into their different realm. Yet, it always overflow. And I am stuck, and I am stuck real bad. A multitude of stories and experiences to be divulged and the first sentence will always be the most difficult.

As I begin to experience the slow-pace of life in NCC, two things I figured out, as a senior, that had misled you cadets out there. Firstly is the sad lack of homilies to aspire and the other, the colossal stonewall which defines the senior-junior relationship.

Lately, I've been leaping from one part to another to delibrately deliver one ultimate message. To motivate, to inculcate and to impart and instill the importance and significance of Unity NCC(Air). This might be the umpteen time that I've been stressing on what-truly-is important and eventually, with you people failing to visualise the framework in the back of your mind, the core values of NCC is nothing but a mere cliche that that had been repetitively recorded and replayed for the sake of tuning in the background.

Its never difficult to motivate someone. But it is also not easy to drill the right screw that fits in the proper perforation, that is in accordance to the different level of competency. Like today, I had found it immensely difficult to choose the proper diction, to choose the proper instance and to choose the suitable quote that suits to deliver the correct message to the Alphas. It clicked to me show how that the Alphas are still new to the school environment and the way some of them behave, speak and react tells me that the level of maturity is still not there yet and that their minds are still cloudy with the perception that they are a new member here and they should be treated like newborn.

It infuriates me inside having to know that you Alphas are here just for the sake of having a CCA and and it hurts me further down to learn that you choose not to put on a facade to what the seniors had done to make you learn and to develop you to be leaders. Like the other time, I was frustrated when one of you all gave an inapt answer to my question. My question was,

"When we, seniors, are standing right here in front of you as leaders, what do you think is the status of you people sitting down there?"

Confidently and convincingly, one of you stood up and claimed, "We are followers!" I feel very bad upon the answer to that question of mine. Now, let me nip in straight in the butt that when we seniors are standing in front of you as leader, you are the future leaders. There is no point of asking you to come to NCC and eat the shit out of us and going home with nothing learnt.

NCC is not about drills, physical trainings, mental challenges, tekan-ning, and diam-ing, NCC is not only about leadership, teamwork, enthusiasm, discipline and all those nice, big, big words. NCC is about that and finding your own true self, your weaknesses and strengths..

Through the four years, its not only about preparation for NS, but it is also about bonding with your friends, about the mental torture we face, the betrayal and the power hunger we feel from our own partmates, the happiness of achieving, and the sadness of failing and fear of not being discovered.. All this will prepare you for life in society now and the near future.. NCC is not fun, it is more than fun....

The reason why we seniors put in more effort to groom you is because the fate of Unity NCC(Air) lies within the reach of your palms. To be able to develop you all well from the start will end with an amazing by-product which can put us up on the throne in NCC, something which is not yet accomplish since the establishment of this unit. We strongly believe in the perception in life that if we focus more on the seedlings, this seedlings will grow well and bear fruits which can benefit those around them particularly the next generation of the unit. That is why we are more focused on this seedlings and saplings here rather than the big trees out there.

And as i am typing away, every second tick silently by. It's tantamount to the period of time before a huge catastrophe. That silence befalling everyone on the battlefield, the expressions on everyone's face, most determined, some uncertain, few unaffected.. That slow incline towards the final climax, when everyone prepared their defences and check on final disorders & loopholes.. It is this period of time, when it will determine how prepared we are during the catastrophe.. Some will triumph over them, some barely surviving, others just totally screwed.. But this is not the time to forecast, not the time to talk about the calamity.. Its not even the time to boast about how early you have started preparing, worse of all how proud you are not doing anything yet.. Because in the end, we save our own butt, now we prepare ourselves, in our own ways, for the final showdown.

So it really depends a lot from you part A. We are here, we are all here to give the motivation and the homilies important to aspire you and to give you an insight of what truly is important in NCC. Now the choice is your's to choose the path for you to lay on. The deceptive one or the you can truly rely on. If I were you, I'll choose the latter. Hopefully after this, you, Alphas will lift and heightened your spirit because it marks another stage of your life crossed over, as you all begin, now, to be a much different person all together.. : )

"It is at the top where you look down and see how ugly everything is"
.:.2SG Muhammad Alfi BMR.:.

PDS party moments.

2008-02-22T23:36:00.016+08:00

Here are some snapshots which the photographer took during the PDS Black And White Party 2008.

I would like to thank all those involve in the party which includes, the CLTs, instructors and cadets who have worked hard for the performance this year. Great job PDS. Hard work pays off and the celebration is truly deserved to be meant for you guys and girls.

To Instructor Jesper who have helped in renting a function room.

To the Clts and instructors who helped decorate the room into a black and white theme.

To all the parents and cadets who have helped in the making of delicious dishes and the magnificent art of cutting the watermelon.

The food was great and everyone is having a good time...

Also not forgetting Ting our photographer from Foto Gallery Image Consultant who takes great pictures during the party.

For those who would like to have the softcopy of all the photos taken during the event, a total of 213 pictures, please bring a blank CD with a minimum size of 700MB, on next friday training 29 March 2008.

Posted by:

SCLT Siti Hajar

Alpha 08

2008-02-03T11:25:00.000+08:00

The following picture is the first picture of Alpha 08 (Part A 08).

Let this be the first of many pictures which have yet to come.

Alpha 08 in camouflage

UNITY NCC-THE BEST THAT WE CAN BE!

Cadets today, Leaders tomorrow.. How about that?

2008-02-02T01:04:00.000+08:00

Coming across a string of river, has one ever thought how it came to existence?
A single stream that we see right before us come together from river tributaries.
Stretching across borders and territories of different hills and of different lands.
The source, the beginning, was rocky.. unpolished.
But as the path continues down the ever-quest of reaching the final goal of sea,
path were rejoined, the energy of the river becomes much more.
united. voluminous..

Today marks the day in my life as I first experience the feelings being able to facilitate our Alpha company during the toss of a Chinese New Year delicacy, better-known as the Yu Sheng. It may not sound as interesting as it seems to me but having the part As crowding around me had succesfully installed the sense of brotherhood within me throughout my 4 long years of commitment and dedication in NCC.

When I see all the different faces, I see fear, uncertainty, but on the other realm :
the carefreeness.. the strong desire for discovery.. the strong willpower.. belief and self-confidence emanating from every individuals.

You all had effectively brought me back 4 years ago, when I was directly in your shoes, fresh from a chapter of my life. Not exactly ready for the next possibilites, eventually never ready to meet the golden opportunity to unleash my well-kept talent deep inside me.

The sparks in your eyes tells me that everyone of you have a story to tell. To express the feelings to be among one of the finest youth organisation in Singapore. I was born no different from any of you. A true blue kiasu Singaporean boy staying well within the confines of my comfort zone. That is until I joined Unity NCC(Air) in Sec 1. Just like you now, I began to realise that the world is a much bigger and more challenging place to live in. The exposure I had, had generated in me an interest in things well beyond textbook syllabus required for school examinations.

Because of this, the thoughts never spared me even till now that everyone of you is unique and complicated beneath just the shell of a new member in NCC. And to have all your stories converging into a single one, it was far more than abstract.. Sheer euphoria. I began to see the magic, a magic resonating from everyone of you. The feeling of feelings for one another. Yet i could hardly remember how i did it myself when i was in your shoes. You all effectively reminded me of who i am once more.

Being able to smile in a foreign environment. Being able to start to smile. Everytime I see you all enjoying yourself, it makes me feel that everything we did was worth it. I need you all to know that everything you all did for one another and for us, its all worth it too.

At the end day, I thought what I had done was over. To facilitate that magic, to give sparks that will unite all of you. From the becoming of acquaintances to friends. And i remembered how widely I smiled that evening. That finale that brings about a new beginning. And its back to my own reality, while you guys carry on by yourself. I may only be a memory to your beginning. You all made me feel that orientation was not just a reality, but one special journey.

Keep striving, and keep believing in yourself and keep believing in the faith that brought all of us together. Don't turn back. Don't even try to look back. Your decision to enter the borders of NCC was a wise choice to nurture each and everyone of you into leaders of our nation tomorrow. Today, we had witnessed many former NCC cadets occupying the leadership position in Singapore. To see you standing before me, one day, leading the citizens towards glory is endless possibilities.

"Stand tall. Stand proud. YOU ARE NCC!"
.:.2SG Muhammad Alfi BMR.:.

The power of words set people thinking..

2008-01-19T21:40:00.000+08:00

Words can make a person.
Words can break a person.
Words can make a person break another person.

And so it seems..

But when the words truly come, directly, indirectly, intentionally or unintentionally, do we believe in it, or do we still stand by the peers who is targeted.

I believe being a rational person. Feelings often take control and its nothing wrong. You feel the frustration and the angst of the person barking the words. But since that person is whom you respected the most, whom u look up to, one becomes dumbfounded about the discovery, about the "actual" wolf in the sheep hide that you didn't know but somehow you heard from others.

However, doesn't anyone ever thought back about the relationship, the friendship that was forged single-handedly by just that two people alone? Is it really that easy for a third party, an outsider to the exclusive friendship make a judgement and causes the downfall of the relationship?

I had seen many losing the trust or taking a second look at their friends, especially those they just made, because of the words that so break them. a second look simply change everything that seemed perfect. More often than not, they move on, because somehow, its alright to lose them. Start to forget and forever a negative mindset bestowed onto that person who could be a nice friend, who could actually be innocent. Who might not even understand what he had just done to invoke these unfeelings, these hostility from a friend whom he thought would work well.

Have we reach a point where connections with people become so vast that changing opinions can be so easy. So deadly.

Shouldn't they even clarify with the friends who was "blacklisted" by others, by words that we actually heard. Won't they feel that their friends they turned down, be hurt at all?

But life's seemed to continue like this. Fragile and instantaneous change of fate. Where the person who can convince, wins. But then, is he really a friend? Is he the only reason why you stay. Is he the the one that you look up to? He whom I described as, "Jack of all trades, master of none"..

Trust. Give them a chance. Relationship shouldn't be motivated by others.

But by your beating heart...

“Professionalism: It's NOT about the job you DO, It's about HOW you DO the job.”
.:.2SG Muhammad Alfi BMR.:.

Cherish the moment..

2008-01-08T16:38:00.000+08:00

50 years down the road,
what do we remember of our days when we were all young?
When we all discover what life had installed for us,
the little things that we find joy in, the conversations we used to have..

Do we remember the choices we made that impacted the path life we'll take?
Do we remember the friendships forged and lost along the way?
If they all matter, will we remember them all?
I do hope so.

It seems life's going so fast now, that certain things have to be left untouched. And untouched it would be forever. Lots of friendship were made, lots more broken. One moment the focus was on something i thought held meaning but the next moment all were gone. I want to remember everything, i want everything to count. But sometimes, inevitably, things get lost along the way. And by things, i mean friendships too; relationship, someone precious, someone whom i could have known better, or just someone whom i missed out on, never ever had a chance.

And obviously, the things we do now, the many things we are often busy about, the commitments that we have, that is exactly where we will make our friends, and that is exactly where the limit lies. And that would mean I wouldn't have the chance with anyone else after that. And to know that just makes me feel a little down.

Time does really matter afterall, or should i say, the lack of time.

Even right now, Unity seemed eons ago. When Unity came into mind, I can only think of a few photographic memories etched deeply in my mind. Still the same, i know Unity had been there for me.

I do not want to forget. But will photographs ever replace that feelings we now have? I doubt so. But right now where i am, let me cherish those times i have, the journeys with you guys give me faith.

50 years down the road, I want to be able to tell my grandson how life has shone on me like how it will shine on you. How friends will come and go, but the memories will always last.

Even right now, its happening.
Right here in Unity NCC(Air)..
All the ups and downs we've been through together as one will not last forever
What says 50 years later..?
I guess I will just have more to immerse myself into. Much more.
To understand. To value. And to cherish one another so as to uphold this strong bonds we've build together
Let's not take this strong bond that we have for granted.
Because what we have experience, then, will be a new chapter tomorrow.

"Each time I wear the uniform, I feel the pride and honour inside me"
.:.2SG Muhammad Alfi.:.

Its A New Chapter!

2008-01-03T23:03:00.000+08:00

It had been three days since the New Year 2008 Countdown Party but I hope its not too late for me to wish all Hornets.. A Happy New Year..!

Speaking of celebrating new year, I'm sure there's quite a handful of you out there that stay up all night on New Year's Eve just to, you know, bade the final farewell to 2007 and welcome a fresh 2008. Whatever it is, I hope fellow Hornets did it for a good reason. Like the saying goes, an optimist stays up until midnight to see the new year in while a pessimist stays up to make sure the old year leaves. So what are you? An optimistic or a pessimistic? You decide..

But at the end of the day, it doesn't really matter how you welcome the new year because most importantly is how you reflect on yourself. Your achievements.. Your failures.. Your relationship for the previous year and how you can improve on them to live a better life.. To mould a better future. Its like a book you see. We open the book and see those blank pages. We will put words on those pages to make it interesting. It is called the book of Opportunities and its first chapter is New Year's Day.

Very often, we have our own, perhaps our secret, New Year Resolution with us. You know, just to keep us on track to get where we want by the end of the year. This can be our exam grades.. For the graduating classes, of course its the big 'O'. And perhaps in NCC.. How we could improve on our drills.. attitude.. commitment.. and find ways to contribute to the unit so that we might not feel awkward when we turn back and think, "What have I done for NCC during my 4-5 years of service?"

So now is the accepted time to make or to re-examine your regular annual good resolution. Because the very bad thing about having those 'goody-goody' resolution is when you can't handle them. And next week you begin paving hell with them as usual.

So to scoop it up I hope Hornets will erect something to improvise on themselves and don't do it just because I ask you to but have the will.. and the faith to really do it with a minimum degree of passion and compassion. I can assure you that you will see yourself smiling your way towards the end of the year with your achievements in hand. Year's end is neither an end nor a beginning but a going on, with all wisdom that experience can instill on us.

Before I end this New Year's message, I hope Hornets will begin a new chapter in life and always remember... Begin with an end in mind.. I wish Hornets all the best and once again, a Happy New Year!

"How very true. I hope each year I'm a better.. man?"
.:.2SG Muhammad Alfi BMR.:.

2007-12-28T22:57:00.000+08:00

From: SCLT Siti Hajar
To: PDS 5th and 6th Intake

Congratulations to those who have make it through this year PDS 6th intake.

You cadets have persevere and endure the many hard training in order to make this performance a success.

Thank you.

I hope that during the past trainings, you have learn more about yourself, your mates, and the importance of teamwork, discipline and the meaning of the phrase 'hardwork comes with practice'. Apply this to your life outside of PDS NCC, be it in your studies or daily home routine.

Example, if you hate maths so much, then try to remember the time when you first hate the rifle for it was heavy and the weight of it makes your arms ache for DAYS.

Yet, you rotate it, learn it, study the moves and practice it with your friends. In the end, what do you get as a person? A final product that you once think you could never ever do it. And what do you get as a team? A new friend forge and the feeling of knowing the he / she is there whenever you need help.

I believe there are many things which you have learn other than those mention above. Take the positives ones and show others how high your self-esteem has become before you first step into PDS. For the negatives feedbacks, be open and accept how others are feeling towards you. They are telling you the problem and situation they are having with you is because they care.

We have read your feedbacks and many of you would like to compliments the following people for their hard work:

PTE Sarah:
Impressive drills stunts despite being a new member.

To SSG Ahmad and SSG Khudaifi:
Thank you for teaching your mates on the drills stunts.

To SSG Ahmad, SSG Khudaifi, CPL Alvin and PTE Sarah:
Congratulations on being able to perform the new stunts. Your squad mates do realise that it is the hardest and does require alot of work.

2007-12-23T23:10:00.000+08:00

Pictures during PDS 6th Intake:

NCC Freestyle Drill Course

2007-12-20T17:19:00.000+08:00

NCC Freestyle Drill Course '07
3rd Dec to 7th Dec 2007

28^th November 2007 – We had our briefing on 28^th November. We met 1WO De Silva and he gave us a brief detail about freestyle drill. He gave each and everyone 2 CDs which included a dress instruction and freestyle unarmed drill. He also showed us some clips by some champions in USA.

3^rd December 2007 – It’s the first day of the freestyle drill course. There were 3 freestyle drill instructors that were from the USA Air Force. They taught us basic USA drills. Example - Attention, at ease, left face, right face and about face.

4^th December 2007 – It’s the second day of our freestyle drill course. They taught us marching drills. Example – Forward march, halt, left flank march, right flank march and to the rear march. After learning the drill, we spent the rest of our time planning on what to do on our graduation performance.

5^th December 2007 – It’s the third day of our freestyle drill course. We brushed up on drills and trained on our performance.

6^th December 2007 – It’s the fourth day of our freestyle drill course. On this day, we learnt about colour guard which includes taking of flags and rifles. There are 2 riflemen on both sides to protect the colors. The 2 colors will be standing in the middle of the 2 riflemen. There are a few commands for colour guard. Example – Carry colors, order colors, left wheel march and right wheel march.

7^th December 2007 – It’s the last day of our freestyle drill course. We practiced on our graduation day performance and the rehearsal for the graduation performance. We were taught on how to march pass for the graduation day and some brief explanation on what will be happening on Saturday.

8^th December 2007 – It’s is our graduation day. We had our performance and some refreshments before we went off.

Report By: CPL Alvin Ho & CPL Farishia
20th Dec 2007

Unity NCC (Air) End-Year Camp 2007

2007-12-19T17:07:00.000+08:00

Recently, we conducted the NCC year -end camp. We were given the opportunity to show our potentials and capabilities. We were told that the whole camp will be planned by us. We were excited and nervous at the same time as this will be our very first time planning it.

We started the planning as soon as we got to know that the camp would be under us. We started distributing roles and separate ourselves into different committees. We made up four committees. They are the admin, logistics, games and not forgetting the group ICs.

It took us months to plan the camp and it took up some of our study time too. This is because the due date for the submission of the planning is just a few days after our year end examinations ended. We felt that we should be told earlier that we will be the ones organizing the camp. We kind of struggled to find dates that are suitable to hold a meeting.

We held a few meetings after the dates were set. The aim of these meetings was to discuss as a whole what needs to be done. The attendance for these meetings was not as what we expected. For each meeting, there must be a few people who could not turn up and the excuse given is not really acceptable. During these meetings also people tend not to pay attention and start to discuss with their friends instead of sharing it to the whole part Bs.

After months of planning and preparation for the camp, finally the big day had arrived. The camp started with a muster parade cum attendance taking. After that the OICs followed by the committee members were being introduced one by one. Then the participants were introduced to their bunks and followed by the introduction of their groups and group ICs. The aim was to make sure that they familiarized who their group ICs and group mates are.

Training was the next activity. The duration of the activity was three hours. The part As had their proficiency test during the training. Before the test, they were given time to practice their drills as they will be tested on it. While the part As were having their proficiency test, the part Bs trained on our arm drills. We were divided into three smaller groups so that it is easier for the part Cs to rectify each and every one’s mistakes. The part Cs also motivated us to give our best during the training. They also give us words of encouragement to tell us that we should be ready as we will be taking over in a few months time.

After the training we changed up and went for lunch. The time given for change up and lunch is 1 hour and 15 minutes. However, us part Bs, were not punctual in reporting back at school.

We were not punctual in a way that we were later than the participants. That should not be the way. As we are the ones running the camp, we should be the ones reaching the school first and not the other way round.

The next activity after lunch was ice breakers. The group ICs need to interact with their group members and recognize each other. They also need to come up with a group cheer during the ice breaking. While they are in the middle of ice breaking, we, the OIC and 2IC realize that the distribution of the groups was uneven. There was one group which only had five members instead of seven. This was because the attendance was not full. So we decided to combine two groups into one big group. At first most group ICs did not like the idea but at last they agreed to it. So now, one group is bigger and better. Like they say, two minds are better than one.

While the participants were having their ice-breakers, the games committee set up the games stations. They set up each station at different locations. There were four different stations. They were the Modified Rugby station, the Caterpillar station, the Stupid Animal station and the Think Out of the Box station. The locations were at the upper basketball court, behind the OASIS, the lower basketball court and the parade square. When a group arrives at a station, they need to do their group cheer before they could start any of the games. The duration for a station was half an hour. For some games, the duration was too long while for others it was too short. The mistake we made was to let one big group compete amongst themselves. We should make one big group compete against another big group.

Next after the games was obstacle course. It was held in the field. The obstacles set up are too simple. After the participants have gone through the obstacles, they did not know what to do. Some do not even go through it. People started throwing the mud and some water bombs around. They also started spraying water from the hose. It was a mess. After we had enough fun, we started cleaning up. Some of the participants helped in the cleaning of the tables that were used. Others help to pick up the water bomb bags on the ground. After the mass clean-up, we had a proper wash up and went for dinner.

This time round, the part Bs were earlier than the participants. Straight away after dinner was movie time. It was a horror movie. After that was our night walk. Even though we were told that the whole camp was totally under us, suddenly, we were told that the part Cs would be taking over for the night walk. At that point of time, most of us, part Bs, were disappointed as the part Cs took over. But after a while we accepted it as we had not go the chance to go through any night walk in school before since we were Part As. And that night walk might be our last planned night walk for us. The night walk went pretty well. Everything went as planned. The night walk ended a few hours past midnight. After the night walk was night snacks followed by lights off.

The next day started. Instructions on what time to fall in given was not clear. The females were late to fall in. It was PT after that. While PT was going on, the logistics ICs set up the tables and food for breakfast. After PT was done, the participants proceeded to the canteen to have their breakfast. The problem was that there was not enough loaves of bread. It was too little.

After breakfast the schedule was playing cling-cling. Before the game started time was wasted. And instead of the part Bs conducting the game, the part Cs did. The next game was the pirate game. While the participants are playing, most of the part Bs are busy filling up water bomb. After the games is straight away water bomb. The original plan was to play dog and bone but due to the problem that we are way behind time, we decided to put the bombs around the parade square and let the participants take as much as they want and just throw it. However, the whole thing ended in about five minutes time. It was too short. Then we started cleaning up. Straight after that the OIC gave the instructions that we will be doing a mass clean up but instructions given are not clear. The place that need to be clean and the duration of the clean up is not been told. In about forty-five minutes time, the participants have finished cleaning up and they assembled under the bridge. After everything was settled we straight away started the feedback session. We asked for feedbacks, comments and suggestions but we did not explain why some suggestions cannot be carried out. It was time to go home after the feedback session was over.

We, part Bs, have learned a lot from this camp. Even though it was only a two day one night camp, we have learned a lot. We learned not to keep people waiting which also means wasting time. We learned that we need to be more enthusiastic as organizers. We believe that there is room for improvements. We can add in more time for trainings and activities. We could also include more activities. We really appreciate the experience we got as organizers. These experiences no matter good or bad will help us a lot in plannings that we need to make in the future. Thanks Sergeant Major, Staffs and Sergeants!

Report by: Unity NCC(Air) Bravo '07
18 Dec 2007

PDS Traininbgs

2007-12-17T19:34:00.000+08:00

To all PDS members
There will be training this week on the following dates

Tuesday(18th)-8am-6pm

Wednesday(19th)-8am-6pm

Do remember to attend the trainings, attire and items to bring will be as usual.

Thank you

Sec 1 Registration

2007-12-11T21:47:00.000+08:00

This post serves as a reminder to all cadets who have signed up to help out for the secondary 1 registration which falls on Friday, 21st December 2007. You are reminded to fall in school by 7.15 am in No. 3, for most of you, and for some of you in No. 4. You will be briefed and told what to do on that day itself.

The cadets who have signed up are:
1) Al-Khudaifi 4/6
2) Farisa 4/8
3) Thaslim Begum 4/7
4) Ameen 4/5
5) Marcus The 4/7
6) Nariah 4/2
7) Pravin 4/4
8) Faris As-siddiq 3/7
9) Khadijah 3/7
10) Alvin Ho 3/4
11) Tamil Alagi 3/7
12) Gervin Eng 2/2
13) Goh Yi Chong 2/8
14) Ethan Chow 2/2
15) Chua Chong Han 2/7
16) Lim Zhi Zheng 2/8
17) Aliffudin 2/3

The 17 cadets above are to report in their No. 3. Your uniform has to be smartly pressed and SEASON your BERETS if you have to!

The cadets who are to report in your No. 4 are:
1) Ahmad Aljuffri 4/4
2) Nursheena 4/6
3) Muhd Afifi 4/4
4) Farishia 3/2
5) Chew Shu Jun 3/4
6) Khairi Zuhaili 2/6
6) Khairul Jauhari 2/1

You are to report in school by 7.15am sharp on that day. Your turnout must be very good as we have to give a good impression to the sec1s and their parents. For those whose hair are long, get it cut. For those who have read this post, please pass the word around to those who are involved.

For those who are in the PDS, there is a high possibility that there would be training in the evening. If you are unable to attend the PDS training in the evening, please inform S/CLT Azril or S/CLT Hajar earlier on.

Thank you.

SSG Muhd Hazim Bin Rosli
ASM Unity Air 07/08

Pictures From Thursday's training,ENJOY!

2007-11-06T22:29:00.001+08:00

Back To Training!

2007-11-04T16:42:00.000+08:00

After a long stand down from NCC due to the examination, Training resumed on the forst week of the holidays, 30th october and 1st november respectively.Although the training was confirmed a bit last minute, information about the training was spread to all the parts through the weekends.
But unfortunately,the attendence for the training was terrible for all partAs,Bs and Cs. Their performance for the training was also not satisfactory although a tad bit of improvement can be seen.Morever,a new trend of "faking FALL-OUTS" was also noted. This will not be tolerated and serious actions would be taken if we realise that the indivitual is faking.DO NOT TAKE THINGS FOR GRANTED!
However, there was a HUGE improvementin the attendence in the training on 1st november,Congrats!.But,for the Part As they still showed poor performance as their uniforms were not up to standard and their drills were also not satisfactory as they still made mistakes such as Not locking of elbows & not clenching of fists,Dragging their boots even when doing stationary drills,Not standing up straight; stomach in chest out DESPITE REPEATED REMINDERS! These mistakes should be improvised and uniforms should be be good and no
threads should be hanging.For the Part Bs,their performance in drills and attire was
satisfactory and GOOD.Keep it Up! Also thier first Command and Control(C&C) training turned out well as they did quite a good job!
Overal,the second training was much better than the first but there is still room for improvement.Another concern is the cadets without BERET.In both trainings there were still cadets without beret. A No.4/No.3 uniform is NOT complete without a beret! So please DO REMEMBER TO BRING YOUR BERET! There will be NCC training this tuesday but there will be no training this Thursday due to Depavali. So do remember to check the noticeboard for further details.

Hornets Soaring To Greater Heights!

Long stand down from NCC

2007-09-23T13:18:00.000+08:00

As the end of year examinations are round the corner, NCC has stand down. This is to allow cadets to spend their time revising for the exams. A few things to take note of:
1) take care of yourself
2) study hard for the upcoming exams
3) For those whose berets' are not seasoned yet, get it done over this long break from NCC. There will be no tolerance given to cadets whose berets are not seasoned as of the first training after the examinations. All of you have been given sufficient time of at least 9 months for the Part A's and a year and a half for the Part B's to get it seasoned. There should be no more excuses. For those whose beret is too tight, get a new one or exchange with your friends.

Lastly, any updates will be placed on the NCC noticeboard. Please check it once in a while although it is in the exam period.

Study Hard

Part B's Orienteering Session

2007-09-10T19:48:00.000+08:00

The Part B's had an orienteering training cum selection on saturday the 8th of September 2007. The objective of the training was to give the Part B's a first-hand experience of what orienteering is. Due to the lack of time we have, it was also made as the selection session to select potential Part B cadets to represent Unity NCC Air in the Annual NCC Orienteering Competition.

The Part B's were divided into 5 teams. 3 of which are male teams and 2 of which are female teams. The male teams weremade to go in different routes such as Jurong East,Bukit Batok and Lakeside. However, the 2 female teams were both going around Clementi.

All teams finished their training well ahead of time. Good job Part Bs. All teams also managed to figure out the place of the Map Grid Reference(MGR) given quickly. However, there was a cadet who had to be sent home in the midst of the event.

In a nutshell, I would like to thank all Part B's for turning up for the orienteering session. Also, I would like to congragulate all Part B's for doing well for the training. However, only 5 will be seleted to represent Unity NCC. From your determination to complete the orienteering session as fast as possible, I can sense the spirit of competitiveness in all of you.

Refer to the NCC noticeboard for more information on who is going to represent Unity NCC in the competition.

Unity Air is Soaring High, Above all others.

PDS T-shirt Order

2007-09-02T01:00:00.000+08:00

To all PDS members,the t-shirts are going to be made soon.MEMBERS who wants to purchase the T-SHIRT please PAY $23 to 2SG Pravin by 13th of September.You can pass it to him anytime u see him AFTER SCHOOL HOURS.He will be waiting outside the ncc room on the 13thseptember from 2.15-3.20 p.m.Pls pay me by the day as i will be handing the money to maam on the next day,those late payments after i pass the money to maam will not be accepted.So please dont be late..Also,you can tell me your order online and just pay the cash when i see you.

(Those already paid except Alvin,Victor and khadijah, PLEASE EMAIL OR CONTACT 2SG Pravin NAME,PDS NUMBER AND T-SHIRT SIZE IN THE EMAIL GIVEN)

Outdoor cooking

2007-08-19T21:15:00.000+08:00

On the 17th of August we held our outdoor cooking session in school. The objective was to familiarize the everyone of how to make a fire and how to keep it going. The initial plan was to dig pits on the ground and place the charcoal on it and start a fire.But unfortunately there was a heavy rain on the day and we had use portable pits to cook the food.Due to the lack of pits two groups had to share one pit.So the cooking began around 4 and we had 2 hours to cook.the groups were told to plan on what to cook a week earlier and a wide variety of food was cooked from,melted chocolates on bananas to black pepper chicken. All the groups managed to start the fire and kept it going untill all their dishes were cooked.All of us certainly learnt something about outdoor cooking and also had fun trying food cooked by other groups.When all the cooking were done, there were no litter left behind by any of the groups and all utensils were returned in good condition.
Credits to That!
well the day ended by the singing of the ncc song during the dismissal parade!

HORNETS SOARING TO GREATER HEIGHTS!

National Day School Celebrations

2007-08-11T19:07:00.002+08:00

On the eve of our Nations 42nd Bdae,our school celebrated the event by a formal parade and other performances.Our Unity Ncc not only took part in the parade but also in a song along event.The parade squad proved their capabilities and showed quality drills.Not only that, Our ncc Performance stood out from the rest as they were more enthusiastic ..Cheers for all your hardwork and effort!!!!!!!!!!But this will not be attained if not for the effort and hardwork put in by our S/CLTs who sacrificed their precious time for the parade rehersals and also the many hours planning.Also credits to all Appoinment holders, marching squad members and all ncc members who took part in the NDP Celebrations and Parade.

HORNETS SOARING>

(By the way,remember this Friday is our outdoor cooking please do not be late as the lesser time we have for training, the lesser time we get to cook.And pls prepare everything before friday as there will be no time to plan on the actual day.For more info pls meet/contact your respective group ICs)

NDP Rehersals

2007-08-06T22:10:00.001+08:00

From the 9th of July, our NDP-NCC squad have been attending rehersals on every mondays and some Fridays and sacrificed their time and effort in the hot sun of our parade square.With the firm Guidance of our S/CLTs , who assembled the parade with other officers from other uniform groups,we were able to sync well with each other as a squad and displayed excellent drills in front of other uniform groups such that they said we have such high standards!! GOOD JOB GUYS!But now we must show the school what we are made off and put all the sweat and effort on the 6 rehersals to good use.On Wednesday, we WILL do our best in the parade!

We Hornets Will Soar Sky High!

Air Specialist Course 2007

2007-06-27T19:45:00.000+08:00

Recently, all part Cs from the NCC Air District attended the Air Specialist Course 2007, held from the 22 to 23 June 2007. This year, the part C cadets are newly introduced to the Airmanship test, as part of the General Specialist Knowledge (GSK). Airmanship tests the future specialists on parts of the aircraft and their functions. Being Air cadets, all the Part Cs from the Air District are expected to pass the test. The Airmanship and GSK tests were conducted as two seperate papers. Since this year's course was the first time the Airmanship test was conducted, the marking scheme was a bit linient. However, Air District's future specialists are to expect more difficult questions in future years in their Air Specialist Courses. Besides that, practical tests concerning Trainfire and Individual Fieldcraft (IFC) were also tested on the then future specialists. Trainfire includes stripping and assembling of the M16S1 rifles, marksmanship fundamentals and magazine filling; while IFC includes judging distance, movements by day, field signals and target indication.

Unity Air has sent all part Cs '07 to the course. They recalled what was taught to them over the last 2 years and 5 months of their life in NCC, with the aid of the Specialist Course Manual and seniors as well as S/CLTS. Armed with knowledge and might to succeed, all the then "future specialists" passed out from the course as Specialists and with 19 2nd Sergeants. They all attained the RSAF-NCC Badge (a.k.a Spec Badge). This badge is important for an NCC cadet to go further as without it, there may not be a possibility for a second chance and cannot go to courses like the Senior Specialist Course or CLT Course. Therefore, even passing out as a 3SG, with the Spec badge, the cadet can go on further.

Additional to that, the Overall Course Best Score goes to 2SG Al-Khudaifi with the highest percentage of 85.2%. Bringing more good news, Unity Air has clinched 4 honourable awards. The awards and awardees are as the following:

2SG Afifi - Best in IFC

3SG Haikal - Foxtrot Company Best Cadet

2SG Hazim - Echo 2 Platoon Best Cadet

2SG Haiman - Overall Outstanding Cadet

Congratulations to the award winners as well as all Unity Part C '07 Specialists. All of you have made Unity Air proud and all the training for the past few years are worthwhile and paid off, thanks to Unity Air's seniors and all S/CLTS as well as Officers. Unity Air will be looking forward to more good news from the Specialist Course in the future. Once again, well done!

"Specialists-to-be" are Specialists already.

Eagles soaring greater heights

Getting to Ngee Ann Poly

2007-05-22T22:48:00.000+08:00

There are 3 ways to get to ngee ann poly. The best way is to check out singapore online directory. However here are a few suggestions:

Alight at Clementi MRT.
Upon exiting the Control Station, turn to your right, walk straight and walk down the stairs towards the bus stop.
You can take bus 52, 184 or 154.
It will pass by Maju Camp. After Maju Camp, press the button to alight at SIM bus stop.
Follow the Shelter all the way into SIM building.
Take the lift up to level 3
Go pass the Cafeteria and Megabyte.
There will be a narrow path which leads to the gate that connects SIM and Ngee Ann.
Walk through that gate, follow the shelter which goes up the hill
You will see a two storey building with a big sign NGEE ANN ALUMNI. Go into the brown door. There, you got it. Your party venue. Bingo!

2007-05-15T15:04:00.000+08:00

To: Unity NCC PDS

Here is the updated and finalise details to the party.

This is a private and exclusive event.

Date: 8th June, Friday Night
Time: 5.30pm to 10pm
Time: Ngee Ann Polytechnic Alumni Club (near, accesible for all cadets)
Theme: Dress to impress
Cost: $7 per head

You can expect entertainment such as RNB and Hip Hop songs which will be played by the DJ. Food will be provided.

IN case you have any questions. Do refer the questions to your relevant USM as they have been brief for the Fiesta.

SCLT SITI HAJAR

NCC Affirmation Ceremony 2007

2007-03-31T16:36:00.000+08:00

The 7th NCC Affirmation Ceremony was held in school, it is the first time NCC Affirmation was held in schools rather than the usual venue, the Singapore Indoor Stadium. Althought most cadets who have been through their Affirmation Ceremony at the Indoor Stadium might feel that holding this event in school might not seem as formal, this years Affirmation Ceremony was relatively good. As being given such little time for the plannig of it, and also being the first year planning such an important event, the planning committee were still able to come up with such a welcoming ceremony for the Part As showed that they were commendable. The slideshows and presentations had gave the Part As a rough idea of what NCC life is all about and all the best to their upcoming years in NCC.
Last but not least, thanks to the Guest Of Honour(Miss Tan), Teacher Officers and CLTs for their support to this event.

-Heartiest welcome to the Part As

PDS 2007

2007-03-21T22:46:00.000+08:00

Some Videos of PDS 2007

-Unity PDS. PRECISION.HONOR.GLORY

Challenge Quest 2007

2007-03-17T23:45:00.000+08:00

Challenge Quest 2007 was held at Amoy Quee Camp on the 16th March. This is an activity held yearly to let the 3 elements, namely Air, Land and Sea district to compete with one another to see which element emerges as champion. Participants gathered at the Parade Square of HQ NCC by 8am for warm up activities. Then they moved out to stations like MOC, Paintball, Archery and the 1.5km run. Representing the Air District, our unit took part in activites like MOC(Motivational Obstacle Course), Archery shooting, paintball shooting. Unfortunately our runners weren't able to participate in the run as there was some miscommnuication with the admin side. All events went on smoothly and our unit did Air District proud. Although not at first placing, Air district came up the Second placing for Challenge Quest 2007. Lets all thank the participants that made this possible.

-we competed, we succeeded
NCC AIR ABOVE ALL

Photo For CIP

2007-03-10T00:49:00.000+08:00

Group photo of some Part B,C & D.

Community Involvement Programme(CIP)

2007-03-09T23:48:00.000+08:00

Today, training started at 2:30pm as we'll be leaving for various venues. For the Part D's we went to Woodlands MRT stn which is our starting point.

Objective of today's activity- Help Keep the Environment Clean & Green. Example( picking up litters).

However, it was no ordinary day of just picking up litters. The Part Cs came up with the idea of having a game of "Amazing Race" and the task at each checkpoint is to pick up litters.
At first this idea was not welcomed by most of us as we thought it wld be boring and tiring. But it turned out to be fun and challenging. With the aid of a map and clues given, we conquered woodlands. Starting off at Woodlands MRT stn, we split up into 3 groups and went to various checkpoints like primary school, wet market, HDB flats and garden.
What we learnt from today's training is moral value, people usually just throw sweet wrappers, tissue paper on the ground. Not even giving concern on the harm they do to the image of Singapore and the environment, but today what we need to do is to find litter, fill them in plastic bags till its full and then throwing it away.
Nobody likes picking up rubbish, so the next time when we have a thought of throwing rubbish elsewhere besides the rubbish bin, think of today. And to end today's topic we'll like to thank the Part Cs for planning and executing such an exciting and educational activity.
Keep up the good work!

Reminder: Upcoming Challenge Quest falls on the 16th March(friday), cadets that signed up for Biking would be reallocated to take part in other event like Obstacle Course, Tug Of War, Archery, Paintball Shooting or Runnig)

a litter bug, is NOT a little bug

Paintball Shooting at AMQ Camp

2007-03-03T13:08:00.000+08:00

Yesterday's training was about Paintball Shooting at AMQ Camp, this place should be new to our Part A's and Part B's as for many of them it might be their first time there. AMQ Camp(NCC Campus) is our home , the place where most NCC Courses and Activities are held, for example courses like Camp Feast, Spec Course, Senior Spec Course. ok, back to yesterday's training. Everyone were excited and were all looking forwad to this Paintball shooting activity held at AMQ Camp paintball arena, proposed to HQ by our Sir Adrian Ng. Let's all thank him for that effort. When we reached AMQ Camp, all was going on smoothly. We had Ice breaker games while waiting for the second batch of cadet to arrive as they went for Prayers. When they arrived we all thought, Hey, the fun part gonna come. PAINTBALL. But, unfortunately, mother nature was not on our side. It was Downpour, rain & stop. Stop & rain. So, we had a debrief of the safety procedures and such. The rain didn't stop and didn't seem that it wld. So, our DC (District commandant) Captain Gary Pek came and broke out the news tt this activity would be cancelled. We felt some disappointment but got over with it as paintball shooting would be postponed to the 22nd March. Last but not least, lets thank Sir Adrian Ng for planning for this activity again.

Reminder, there would be an upcoming event held at NCC campus on the 16th March, intersted cadet can sign up to take part in category such as Running, Biking, Achery, Painball shooting, Obstacle Course. Lets do our unit and Air District Proud!

we went, we saw, we left...

Anonymous tagger

2007-02-15T16:31:00.000+08:00

S/Clt Khai here.

There has been an annoying annonymous tagger in the tagboard. Whether its a he or a she, it shows that the person is in a total coward position who is only able to be daring in tagboards, but not in reality. These tagger thingy shan't be entertained as they don't even deserve a chip of our attentions.

Cadets are not to return-tag as this will only fuel the person to tag even more and more. I will need the full coorperation of you guys.

And my note to the annoying annonymous tagger,

If you're a guy, have the dick to come to me. Don't just be a coward who can only afford to speak from a distance, and not straight to my face. Feel free to find me every Friday at Unity Secondary School, 1530hrs onwards. Since you cant enter the school premises, let me make it even easier to you. Just find any of my trusted Specs and tell them you're waiting for me outside the school. I will identify you as Tagger.

Be my guest! I'm DARING you this time!

My view...

2007-02-15T16:07:00.000+08:00

Part A still slack for multiple reasons.

- They havent had a proper training yet. There is no a day whereby they spend the whole day doing drill.

- It's their very first time being exposed to a uniform school and also secondary life. Some of them still think they had just got out from their mum's womb, while others wanna act maintain their coolness to flaunt themselves. This is very understandable. It's human nature.

- There is no scapegoat from fellow Part As to receive punishment for being slack.

-They have not do their best to be rewarded a "Games Day". By the way, "Games Day" is not a 'Fun Time' activity. Its actually a reward for cadets hardwork during training. Respective ICs do take note. Do not abuse "Games Day".

I will take Part A from now on, together with Clt Mark, to intill the very basic foundation of NCC. Specs and D1s are to make full use of the authority given as I will surely need your assistance during the absence of S/Clt Hajar and S/Clt Azril. Those caught abusing your power will have a private session with me though.

With regard, this is S/Clt Khai signing off.

Expectations

2007-02-03T01:41:00.000+08:00

Part A - We ONLY expect u all to have proper turn out during master parade. (etc. NO fidgeting). And also to get basic drills right, Sedia and Senangdiri are a MUST. Last but not least, listen and obey what ur Part IC tells you all to do.

Part B- No longer Part As ald, dun need us to guide u all here and there, somethings we want to see in you all are INITIATIVE & PERSERVERANCE. Especially on your drills, those better ones. DON'T COMPLAIN that some are slackers and that they dun coordinate well. Have u thought about why this happens? Take the INITIATIVE to influence them to do well, tell them slacking only makes them ROT.

Part C- To be honest, you guys standard are of extreme ends, GOOD or BAD. So, for those who know that you are not up to standard, work hard, for those who know they're up to standard, Don't get COCKY. Expectations for u guys are ENTHUSIASM & HARDWORK. etc. If you'll not good at drills, simple march at home to move from place to place.

-With Hardwork, Comes Improvement

Congratulations!

2007-01-20T00:06:00.000+08:00

Congrats,

Firstly, congratulating the part B for being promoted from Rankless Privates to Lance Corporal.
With the rank given we hope u guys would work hard and buck up on ur drills and show more STANDARD as Part B cadets!

Secondly, congratulating the Part C for achieving Total Defence Silver Badge and the Napfa badges. SPECIALISTs to be, We've seen much improvements in your standards and keep that up. Best Wishes for the upcoming Part C live firing. Earn yourselves a MARKSMANSHIP Badge and do our unit proud!

Lastly, congratulating all those Specialist being promoted to the rank of 1st SERGEANT and also those MARKSMEN. And also the newly selected appointment holders, STAFF Alfred as ASM and STAFF Mark as Deputy ASM!

We are all just like no.3 boots, the more we polish ourselves, the more we'll gonna SHINE!

2007-01-06T00:18:00.000+08:00

To PDS cadets,

Cheers to you guys for making this year parade a success. IT was certainly much better than last year. You guys work well, co-operate and persevere. Thats one thing i like about PDS.

Always remember our vision: Precision. Honor . Glory.

Sir Azril and myself will be back on the month of April. When im in attachment and you happen to see me doing my work in some retail stores, remember: DO NOT DISTURB.

While we are gone for this few months, work well with your peers, seniors and respect your new CLTS attached to your new unit. Remember hornets, you cannot survive alone, only with teamwork and trust can you achieve greater heights.

As for school work, help each other out. Ask your seniors. Do not limit your bonding during NCC session only. Teachers are there to help you too. Remember, school fees are paid for a reason, and a mouth is granted for a purpose.

Have the courage to ask, and learn what is being teached. Understand and you will succeed.

If you have any problems along the way while we are gone, email me at

adek_19@hotmail.com

Here are some pictures taken during the PDS training from year 2006 to this year 2007.

Happy New Year!

2007-01-02T22:07:00.001+08:00

2007 is HERE!
New Year,
New Hope,
New Ambition...

Lets all give it our BEST shot to maintain our unit's standard, or even pull up the standard...

NCC DAY 2004

Staff Shakira PROPOSING to USM Jesper?
Relax, Its just a forfeit...

Happy New Year!

2007-01-02T22:07:00.000+08:00

Fallen Eagles...

2006-11-11T20:32:00.000+08:00

Time - 7:20am
Venue - Yio Chu Kang MRT

We reached Yio Chu Kang MRT this morning at this time. I thought we would be able to set off to HQ NCC by then. But, guess what we saw. Only Corporal Zhen Wei had arrived. We stated CLEARLY that the time to meet was 7:20am Sharp at Yio Chu Kang MRT. Our blood were all boiling.

7:25am - Corporal Alfi arrived, 5 mins late, we didn't say much

7:30am - PTE Faris and PTE Irwan arrived, we asked why they were late, and we didn't get the answer... We didn't want to pursue the matter as time is already running out.

7:45am - PTE Musfirah and PTE Izyan arrived, by then CPL Zhen Wei, CPL Alfi, PTE Faris, PTE Irwan and I were already on our way to HQ NCC, it was a 10-15mins walk from Yio Chu Kang MRT to HQ. We managed to reach there just on time, 8am which was the time required for all competitors to reach HQ.

8:10am - All of us reached the MPH and settled down to do some last minute touch ups on the planes. Time was running out fast and we only managed to tune 2 planes to their maximum performance and was then told to stop all preparations...

9:30am - Competition Starts, Staff Alfred and I was the first team to compete in the 1/4 rat race competition.

9:40am - We entered the field, the CLT said we had 60sec to do a pre-run of the engine, which means to try starting once. he said: " 3, 2, 1, START ". As the mechanic, I did what is should calmly. I fueled the plane, then I wanted to clip the glow booster to the glow plug, something like inserting a key into the car to supply electricity to the engine. Then the First trouble striked, the glow booster just doesn't clips on as the glow plug was diff from the usually ones we used and this was the first time i used the new version of glow plug on the plane. I raised up my hand and called for the CLT's aid. But to no avail, I asked the CLT if i could get a glow clip from my junior.
He said ok and gave me 1 min. I ran to fetch the glow clip, but by this time the opponent have ald flew for many rounds and 50 laps with the winning timing is the criteria to advance. I clipped the glow clip on and tried to start the plane. Second trouble strikes, the propeller unscrewed and flew for my head and was deflected, as I'm weraing a safety helmet. This spelled the END for our 1/4 rat race competition, as we didn't have a wrench. (item used to screw propeller) It was lost. Nothing could have been done then. We looked at the opponents SUPER SLOW plane flew rounds and rounds and finally meeting the requirement to advance, 50 laps. We lost, we were disqualified from the competition. Unity Eagles had fallen...

?:?? - Part A's and Part B's are preparing for their junior solo flying competition. Our last and final hope to win. All we could do was hope for the BEST. Then the name was called, Unity 1, plz proceed to the flying area, it was time for action. CPL Zhen Wei (Flyer) and CPL Alfi (Mechanic) proceeded to the flying area. The criteria to win is to have the best timing for flying 25 laps. The plane started and took off smoothly, but then it suddenly slowed down. Then it continued for about 18 rounds and ran out of fuel. The plane was fuelled, tuned and it took off. This time at a faster speed. They did it, they completed the 25 laps in 4min plus time. Although they did not win any top few positions, they still did our unit proud.
For Unity 2, PTE Musfirah (Flyer) and PTE Izyan (Mechanic) they were disqualified as their plane crashed. But this is their first time taking part in aeromodelling competition, so they can try harder the next year.
For Unity 3, PTE Irwan (Flyer) and PTE Faris (Mechanic), same case as Unity 2.

?:?? - Prize presentation, every cadet who took part in the competition got a medal of participation, it is a nice medal which is Silver colour, has a NCC crest at the front and reads Air Competition 2006 at the back. That was the end for today's aeromodelling competition.
The Eagles might have Fallen, but the fighting spirit haven't. I'm sure the Eagles would soar high next year.

Lesson for today's mistake - 1st, time management(again) I would want to see more sense of urgency next time, we've had enough of juniors being late for training and for today, late for the BIG day, Competition. We are from the uniform group and we should be self-disciplined. It doesn't meant you've got over with it when we don't say anything about it.
2nd, equipment, anyone who brings back or keeps any equipment should be liable for that item.

I hope that all of us can learn from what that have went wrong to each and everyone one of us today. Punctuality is a MUST , Maintainence and Storage of equipment is also very important.

Let's spent one minute tonight before we sleep doing self-reflection and think how can we improve to be a better cadet ;)

Ponggol Park

2006-11-01T20:49:00.000+08:00

Today's Park Cleaning wasn't a success as the first problem that we encountered was TIME MANAGEMENT PROBLEM. The Bus was late...

However, that kinda help us to be able to spent more time and interact more with our juniors.
We usually don't have spare time to get suggestions and know more about the Part A and Part B
So, i would like to say that your opinions and ideas are valued and we will look forward to have such talks again ;)

Back to Today's Park Cleaning, we did not helped in cleaning the park at all. As we were LATE, so so Late that when we reached there it started raining and all outdoor activities have to got to be cancelled because of the lightning. Besides that, i think the other school cadets have cleared all the trash already.

Anyway, Park Cleaning has already passed so all we can do is learn from this mistake and work on it, for today it's on time management and i believe also some communication problem with the bus driver.

Hope u guys enjoyed today's journey, free food, free shirt and the songs and cheers the senior thought u guys... Happy Holidays ;)

Memories of September Camp

2006-09-21T20:44:00.000+08:00

What Juicy Fruits...
Did u wash your hand?
Eating "happily"
Goodbye, Beloved Sir Khairul
Have u spotted Maam Hajar?

2006-09-21T20:30:00.000+08:00

Congratulations...

Congrats, fellow Part B cadets, for having acheived a 100% Passes for the Part B Silver Wing Course.They earned themselves each a Silver Wing badge and the Corporal Rank.Once again CONGRATULATIONS to all the Corporal today, Sergeant of the future.