This year NDP 09 promises to be an exciting show as the elements of Air, Land and Sea come together at Marina Bay.
Previously when NDP took place at the National Stadium, it was almost impossible to bring the “Navy” to the audiences. But ever since the shift in location to Marina Bay, we are only limited by our own imagination as to what and how we can engage Singapore.
At the last rehearsal, what I witnessed personally was very much reflective of our Navy spirit, The Navy Family. Everyone seemed to be there, doing their best in their part or lending support and offering advises. It was indeed a very reflective moment for me as I can sense the spirit, uniquely ours at work. Let the photos bring you a brief insight of what took place …
-MWO Janiel
Here's an email interview we conducted with some of our Navy comrades. It was really revealing, their experiences and thoughts =)
SSG Alien Ang Jiok Gian is the trainer and coordinator for the marching contingent.
2LT Kenneth Tan is the Naval Diving Unit (NDU) colour party ensign.
How many times have you participated in the NDP?
I was once a Guard Of Honour, and currently a trainer this year.
This is my first time.
What does it mean for you to be part of NDP this year?
It is a learning stage for me this year, and I would like to participate again.
One of the more significant firsts in my life would be marching for NDP for the first time. This means I can proudly march before my fellow Singaporeans and celebrate this joyous occasion with them as a nation.
What is it like preparing for the NDP show itself?
A lot of preparation and commitment to be part of NDP; fun but tiring. (Nothing Stands in Our Way)
Preparing for NDP was no walk in the park. Initially I envisioned NDP training to be a mundane and repetitive activity. It was, until I started meeting members from other services as we shared experiences.
Why do you decide to come onboard the NDP journey?
A chance to learn as a trainer point of view, even backstage roles are interesting.
I learnt that volunteering for this parade was more rewarding than most other roles as I would have the honour of representing my unit. It was a privilege to stand proud before everybody.
What do you love about Singapore/ being Singaporean?
Pride in Singapore and being Singaporean and also Clean and Green Singapore.
Other than feeling proud for the unit, I enjoy my daily life being able to enjoy the benefits of peace in contrast to warring countries. I am thankful that Singapore is relatively peaceful and that we need not worry about daily necessities that many of us often take for granted.
What is your personal birthday wish to Singapore?
Get strong and stronger :)
If there is something that you will remember from this NDP what would it be?
Watching as a spectator at the viewing seat and as a trainer at the platform.
What impression do you want to give when people see your participation in NDP?
More impactful with a coordinated display in the Sea, Air, Land.
Tell us something about your performance that people probably wouldn’t know?
The long hours of training and the effort that the servicemen put in.
Something that the public might not know about the Parade is the amount of commitment that all the participants put in. Although the show would last approximately 45 minutes, many of the participants have trained tirelessly as early as March.
Share some things you are looking forward to on the 9th August?
A 'Smooth Sailing' Day.
Looking forward to the end of the show, seeing the smiles of the Singaporeans and the bigger smiles of my fellow participants, as they give a sigh of relief for a flawless show.
Guess why we chose the colours? Navy Blue and Aquamarine Green, get it?
The waves of excitement are coming, watch out!
An interview with Captain Brandon regarding the involvement of NDU in NDP this year.
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The navy's cool! It's great that they get to do more for NDP this year!
Shane said...
July 3, 2009 at 11:26 PM
haha
Anonymous said...
July 3, 2009 at 11:50 PM
got to see the navy from beside the merlion, it's really v cool, the nautical displays and jets of water, v interesting
minyi said...
July 4, 2009 at 12:05 AM
hwo's diving like?
liam said...
July 5, 2009 at 7:30 AM