Saturday, October 13, 2007
12102007.
That's me, receiving my award from the Reviewing Officer.
My sister and me!
My parents and myself.
My brother, Encik Andy and myself. He was the course warrant for the both of us!
"The Golden Bayonet is awarded to the best trainee of each course. Receiving this award from the Armoured Infantry Section Leader Course, Ultra, is Corporal Chen Yixiang John."
"SIR!"
A moment etched in my memory, possibly forever.
Its been a memorable day for me, probably one of my proudest moments. It was possibly something I never expected 19 weeks ago when I stepped into School of Armour with hesitation about what to expect in the days to come. 19 weeks later, I stood proud on the very same parade square my brother did 2 years ago, together with the many batches of Armour Specialists who have gone before us. I still vividly remember the day, being awed by the roar of the engines as they came to life in the vehicle park, and made their way out onto the parade square. That was then.
Yesterday, we had an evening parade, starting at close to 7pm. It was nice for a change, it did help that the darkness probably helped cover some of the flaws, and that we didn't need to subject ourselves to baking under the sun as we had done so for the previous days during rehearsals. I hoped to be selected as the Parade Commander, but I knew my personal drills and words of commands were not up to standard. So, I marched out onto the parade square as the Contingent Commander of Ultra Course, with the total number of graduands numbering 64. My legs were shaking from the unusual experience of having tens of camera flashes towards us, with all eyes on us, not a mistake should be made. In the end, I supposed the parade went fine.
But more importantly, I'm really grateful for everyone in the course who helped me at some point or another, especially during our trying time overseas. Especially to my family and baby, for their support, being there for me whenever I needed them, without which this award would never have been possible. I thank God for giving me this award, which has been a really wonderful reward after 10 months in the army. Its been an extremely challenging time, but I pray that He will always be there for me, to bring me through these trials and mould me to become a stronger person.
Even as I embark on a new journey as a Specialist, I hope that it is with pride I lead. As my brother once told me, its not the Golden Bayonet which defines you, but you who define the Golden Bayonet.
Its been fantastic.
Thanks for gracing this occasion for me, and taking care of me today when I was sick. I love you, deep deep! =)
Reminiscence the past, cherish the present, look forward to the future with hope.
10:46 pm
