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SPEECH BY MR THARMAN SHANMUGARATNAM, MINISTER FOR EDUCATION & SECOND MINISTER FOR FINANCE, AT THE SAF DAY COMBINED REDEDICATION CEREMONY FOR NORTH/NORTHEAST ZONE ON FRIDAY, 30 JUNE 2006 AT 3.00 PM AT THE NANYANG POLYTECHNIC AUDITORIUM

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen.

        We are gathered here today to commemorate SAF Day.  This rededication ceremony is for us to renew our pledge of allegiance and loyalty to our country.  I am heartened to see such a good turnout of National Servicemen and employers.  Your presence demonstrates the strong support for National Service, and the commitment of Singaporeans to the security and defence of our country.

2      Singapore enjoys peace and stability and we have a secure foundation on which to build the future of our country.  Singaporeans understand that no one can underwrite our security except ourselves.  We need a strong SAF to be an effective deterrence so as to ensure our security and protect our vital national interests.

3      As a small nation with limited resources, Singapore depends on National Service to maintain our defence capability.  National Servicemen, like yourselves, form the backbone of the SAF and play a critical role in safeguarding the security of Singapore.  You have been steadfast and true in answering the call of duty faced despite the many demands of your career and family.

4      On behalf of the Government and the people of Singapore, I thank you all for your service to our nation.  I would like also to thank the families and employers of our National Servicemen for your enduring support.  Your support makes it possible for our National Servicemen to focus on their training and operational duties.  It is this collective responsibility and commitment of all Singaporeans that has secured our country and provided the foundation for us to build the modern thriving Singapore that we call home.

5      Thank you.

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