Soaring To New Heights: RSAF Trio Make Their NDP Debut
You'll never forget your first time attending a large-scale event like the National Day Parade (NDP), especially at the Padang – I certainly won't. The vibes, the pride, the thousands of participants, the unified crowd of 27,000 spectators – aiyah even the heat! – all conspire to create a uniquely Singapore experience that cannot be replicated.
If being a spectator at NDP gets the pulse racing, imagine the electrifying rush that first-time participants like Military Expert 1 (ME1) Buryvin Bashok, Captain (CPT) Joel Tan, and 1st Sergeant (1SG) Kumaren s/o Thanabal undoubtedly feel.
ME1 Buryvin will be part of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) Guard of Honour (GOH) contingent in the Parade and Ceremony (P&C) segment of NDP 2024. Entitled "United We Stand", the P&C will feature more than 2,100 participants comprising the SAF Colours Party, 35 marching contingents, the Military Tattoo-Combined Band, a Choir Music Video, and the Presidential Gun Salute.
Meanwhile, CPT Joel will be co-piloting an RSAF AH-64D Apache Attack Helicopter, and 1SG Kumaren will be operating the Surface-to-Air PYthon-5 and DERby (SPYDER) Ground Based Air Defence (GBAD) system as part of the Total Defence 40 (TD40) Dynamic Defence Display (D3). This adrenaline pumping chapter in NDP 2024 commemorates 40 years of Total Defence in Singapore, and will showcase coordinated responses to various air and maritime threats, civil emergencies, and disruptions.
We speak to the RSAF trio making their NDP debut to find out more.
ME1 Buryvin is an Air Force Engineer, 815 Squadron. | IMAGE: NICK CHEE
ME1 Buryvin will be one of more than 2,100 participants in the P&C segment of NDP 2024. | IMAGE: NICK CHEE
ME1 Buryvin Bashok
His role in NDP 2024: RSAF Guard of Honour Contingent
ME1 Buryvin is excited and honoured to participate in the NDP for the first time. “It's a privilege to represent the RSAF and contribute to such a significant national event. To do it in front of all the people gives me the pleasure to see the spirit of everyone,” says the 25-year-old.
Training for the NDP has been a rewarding experience for ME1 Buryvin, especially due to the camaraderie and teamwork involved. “It's been rewarding to work closely with fellow participants, build strong bonds, and collectively prepare for this significant event,” he says.
This year’s NDP theme, “Together, As One United People”, resonates deeply with ME1 Buryvin, and highlights the importance of camaraderie and solidarity. “As a soldier, the concepts of not being alone and being united underscore the necessity of teamwork, trust, and mutual support within the ranks. As a Singaporean, they reflect the collective spirit of the nation, emphasising the strength found in unity and the importance of standing together to overcome challenges and achieve common goals,” he says.
When it comes to what he enjoys most about NDP, it’s the P&C segment and aerial displays. “They always put up a good show. The P&C segments never fail to give their 100% in NDP, and since it’s my first time too, I get to feel what they’ve always felt," he says, adding that the aerial display is always so fascinating. "Seeing the F-16s fly past gives me goosebumps!”
CPT Joel Tan is a helicopter pilot, 120 Squadron. | IMAGE: REPUBLIC OF SINGAPORE AIR FORCE
The RSAF’s AH-64D Apache Attack Helicopter in rehearsals for the TD40 D3 segment of NDP 2024. | IMAGE: REPUBLIC OF SINGAPORE AIR FORCE
CPT Joel Tan
His role in NDP 2024: AH-64D co-pilot/gunner, TD40 D3
Precision is key for CPT Joel whose role involves guiding the pilot to ensure precise timing and targeting down to the second, delivering an exhilarating performance during the TD40 D3 segment.
All we can say is, you’re in for an impressive aerial display. “Expect an exciting run-in from the Marina Bay area, with climbing and diving manoeuvres towards the Padang,” says CPT Joel, who adds that it’s fascinating for him to see how different services integrate into this Dynamic Defence Display, with each unit executing their sequences to create an unforgettable show for the audience.
This year marks a significant milestone for CPT Joel. “Having participated in supporting roles in the past on the ground, it’s thrilling to be part NDP as a flying crew for the first time. As I navigate the skies, there’s a great sense of responsibility and pride in being able to play a part in the defence of Singapore,” he says.
His family, including his wife and parents, will be watching. “They’re very excited to watch me perform in NDP this year, especially my wife, as this marks her first year as a Singapore citizen!”
1SG Kumaren is an Air Defence System Specialist, 165 Squadron. | IMAGE: NICK CHEE
The SPYDER GBAD system is an all-weather air-defence system, seen here in action at an NDP Preview. | IMAGE: NICK CHEE
1SG* Kumaren s/o Thanabal
His role in NDP 2024: SPYDER System Operator, TD40 D3
For 1SG Kumaren, participating in this year’s NDP is a dream come true. “When I heard the news that I’d be participating, I was excited. I’ve always wanted to join, and this year I finally get the chance,” he says. Along with excitement, he admits to feeling a bit nervous about preparing for the big day. “I hope everything goes well, fingers crossed!"
As a pre-show ritual, 1SG Kumaren relies on a simple routine: “I make sure I have a good meal before getting into the vehicle. Once I’m inside, just... happy thoughts! 😄 The adrenaline kicks in as we head towards the Padang, and that’s enough to get me excited and ready [for the show].”
His family is equally thrilled about his NDP debut. “When I told them, they were very excited, especially my mom. She’s always wanted to see me on the big screen, and now she finally will!” he says, adding that his family’s support and excitement have made this milestone even more special for him.
*1SG Kumaren was promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant (SSG) with effect from 1 Jul 2024.
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