Military display, cultural showcase must go together in NDP
I refer to the report “NDP 2017 to be held at Marina Bay floating platform” (Aug 19).
It is good that the National Day Parade (NDP) is returning to the floating platform next year, so that our ability to protect ourselves — in the air, on land and at sea — can be brought back in all its glory.
Other segments involving song and dance, history and our diversity and inclusiveness are important in fostering unity (and because of the involvement of children, looking to the future with optimism).
But there is no denying that the sight of our national flag flying overhead, followed by roaring jets, skydivers coming out of the sky and naval boats showing how they keep our waters safe, stirs the pride.
We missed most of this, plus the armoured columns and other specialised vehicles, at NDP 2016. That would please someone like me, who watches the parade every year, and surely many others.
I look forward to the military, civil, psychological, social and economic defence contingents, with the leaders who direct them. This establishes our strength in depth. As in the past, a large part of the parade must be about grit (and patriotism).
It is also important we stay rooted in the present to ensure the future, considering the challenges ahead. The way to do that is to be constantly operationally ready for any outcome and able to react to it.
Having served National Service in the 1970s, with the defence of this nation drummed into me, I feel this aspect of the NDP must never be left out. It should prominently be at the start.
We must see more of it and make it clear that everyone has a role in ensuring Singapore is never put at risk.
Our military display and the cultural showcase go together — having one without the other makes for a less satisfying whole.
