After a five-year hiatus, Army Open House 2022 (AOH 2022) finally returned to the F1 Pit Building this year – and it gave residents and staff from Sunbeam Place @ Children’s Society a welcomed opportunity to learn more about the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and what National Service entails. 

AOH 2022: Our residents and staff eager to start the afternoon of learning and fun 

The friendly chaperones from the 3rd Army Maintenance Base (3AM) introduced them to various armoured fighting vehicles, and gave them a chance to have a go at the obstacle course, fitness corner, paintball and shooting range. 

AOH 2022: Catching a first-hand glimpse of our army’s defence capabilities

“For young people, the idea of National Service – a rite of passage for all male Singaporeans – can be hard to grasp. Being able to learn about our nation’s defence capabilities through immersive activities and see the high-tech military equipment up close does help,” says Cayden Woo, Head of Sunbeam Place, who accompanied our residents to AOH2022. 

That was certainly the case for 17-year-old Alloy*, who will soon be enlisting for National Service. “I learned more about what we will need to do in the army, including the exercises and training. The obstacle course was also very memorable – all the boys competed against each other and the staff cheered us on.”

The visit was equally fulfilling for Sunbeam Place staff, including Steprene Joanna John, Residential Care Associate. “I saw my boys demonstrate resilience and complete the obstacle course together. They were hesitant and shy initially, but pulled through the entire course together as a team, cheering each other on and not giving up.” 

*Name has been changed to protect the beneficiary’s identity

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