Armed Forces Day in Singapore

Now known simply as Singapore Armed Forces Day or SAF Day, the occasion continues to be commemorated annually through a grand parade presided over by the President of Singapore. The parade recognises the best armed forces units, remembers servicemen who have died in the line of duty, and troops the colours. The Singapore Armed Forces are the military services of the Republic of Singapore, responsible for its defence and national interests.

The first Armed Forces Day was celebrated on 1 July 1969 with a grand parade and march-past at the Jalan Besar Stadium presided over by then Minister for the Interior and Defence Lim Kim San. This special day was set aside for the armed forces to “rededicate themselves to bear true faith and allegiance to the President and the Republic, support and defend the Constitution, stay loyal to the country, people and Government, and defend the honour and independence of the Republic of Singapore”. Public outreach activities such as camp “open houses”, exhibitions, selling of flags, and displays were held as part of the celebrations. The day itself was set aside for servicemen and servicewomen to reaffirm their loyalty and commitment to the Singapore Armed Forces and the nation.