Forget-me-not
6 SIR's role is to protect designated military and key civilian
installations as part of the Army's homeland security
efforts.
Hence, the soldiers are trained in homeland security measures and
are equipped with skills to provide vigilant around-the-clock
watch.
What are some interesting skills that 6 SIR soldiers learn in their
eight months of training?
MAJ Wong revealed that his soldiers are well-trained in rules of
engagement, so they know how to approach different situations
appropriately.
Another interesting skill is 'keep in memory' abilities.
MAJ Wong explained: "Through computer-aided programmes and role
play, we help train the soldiers' cognitive and psycho-motor
skills."
"Essentially, we want to strengthen their memories."
" The soldiers are trained to notice 'out of place' things and
remember important details like vehicle models, license plates,
height of the suspect, his clothing...We want them to report the
details accurately so we can follow up quickly," said MAJ
Wong.
While most suspicious characters turn out to be innocent but
misinformed persons, MAJ Wong stressed that the action taken by PTE
Soh was the right thing to do.
He said: "In security, we have to take every incident that is 'out
of place', very seriously, because you never know where or who the
real enemy is."
"And unlike conventional operations where soldiers can normally
refer to higher command to make decisions, the nature of POI
operations requires our soldiers to be more independent. Hence
junior commanders and ground troops are expected to make split
second on-the-scene decisions, for instance, deciding that the
situation is not right and reporting it," MAJ Wong added.
Firm but effective
By patrolling and standing guard in civilian installations, 6 SIR
soldiers come into contact with non-military personnel daily. MAJ
Wong said that managing civilians requires important people
skills.
He said: "We have thinking soldiers who understand the seriousness
of their task, and know what are out-of-bounds areas when dealing
with civilians. Hence they are able to respond effectively to
civilians, to remain polite yet firm."
MAJ Wong continued: "There will always be a couple of civilians who
become agitated or are unco-operative. But our soldiers have been
able to calm them down and explained why certain actions must be
taken or procedures followed. Most of the time, we get their full
co-operation after we explain the rationale to them."
What about the relationship with commercial companies? How do they
feel about military personnel guarding their compound?
MAJ Wong replied that perhaps, initially, there might have been
some discomfort.
"But now, our civilian counterparts recognise the possible threats
we face and how significant security is. They understand that the
SAF, together with other homeland agencies, enhances the security
of their areas.
They tell us they feel relieved when they see our soldiers, and are
impressed by the professionalism and skills demonstrated by the
soldiers."
MAJ Wong is also glad to note that 6 SIR has established strong
ties with external agencies like the Police or the Coast Guard who
protect the installations alongside the SAF troops.
"Through joint exercises, regular meetings and training, we
understand each other's operating procedures and tactics better,
and have built very close friendships and working relationships
with other agencies," he said.
"We are able to enhance the inter-operability of the SAF with other
homeland security agencies, and I am confident that, together, we
have multiplied our effectiveness and efficiency to deal with any
situations."
Protecting Singaporeans
Planning ahead, MAJ Wong hopes to leverage on technology as a force
multiplier.
Working with relevant agencies, he said his soldiers are currently
trying out new technology and procedures to boost their
capabilities.
For instance, they are trying out tracking devices and surveillance
systems like mobile cameras, to enhance their situational awareness
and command and control of troops on the ground.
Simulators could also be used to enhance the soldiers'
skills.
Six months after turning operationally ready, how does MAJ Wong
evaluate his soldiers' performance?
He replied thoughtfully: "I am very proud of them. I can see that
they understand the importance of their job and they take it very
seriously. They have been able to adapt and learn among themselves,
to enhance their knowledge."
"Furthermore, in public, they have been able to maintain a very
positive image of the Army, yet deal with situations firmly and
politely. All this shows that the training we give them is useful
and the soldiers are motivated to do their job well."
What this all means is that the good work of 6 SIR soldiers allows
for all Singaporeans to go about their daily routine, assured that
there is a specialised and dedicated force that is effectively
protecting key installations, indirectly protecting us
all.
