The father and son pair in the Singapore Navy's submarine force

Key Concepts

• National Service (NS) Experience: The initial period of mandatory military service for young men.
• Signing On: The decision to pursue a career in the military beyond the initial NS period.
• Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN): The naval branch of the Singapore Armed Forces.
• Submariner Training: Specialized training for operating submarines.
• Basic Military Training (BMT): The initial training for all recruits in the Singapore Armed Forces.
• RSS Invincible: A ship in the RSN.
• Crew Training Wing: A department responsible for training naval personnel.
• Submarine Training School: An institution dedicated to training submariners.
• Seventh Flotilla: A naval formation within the RSN.
• Outfield: A military term referring to being deployed for exercises or operations away from the base.
• Sail: A period of time spent at sea on a naval vessel.
• Milestones: Significant personal events such as birthdays and graduations.

ME1 Kee Jie En: A Platform System Operator

ME1 Kee Jie En, aged 23, is a platform system operator on board RSS Invincible, with three years of service in the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN). He initially joined the Navy after a career talk during his Basic Military Training (BMT), which sparked his interest in pursuing a naval career.

Deputy Director Kee Kiang Peng: A Career in the Navy

Kee Kiang Peng, aged 54, has served for 35 years and is currently the Deputy Director of the Crew Training Wing of the Submarine Training School, Seventh Flotilla. His career in the Navy spans a significant period, accumulating decades of experience and knowledge.

Family's Initial Hopes and Surprise

Initially, Kee Kiang Peng hoped his son, ME1 Kee Jie En, would have a positive National Service (NS) experience and then move on with his life. He was surprised when ME1 Kee Jie En expressed interest in signing on after a recruitment talk. Kee Kiang Peng then shared insights into life in the Navy and the implications of an SAF career for personal life.

The Submariner Aspiration

ME1 Kee Jie En's interest evolved further when he considered signing on as a submariner. This decision surprised and pleased his father, who recognized the difficulty of the submarine qualification course.

Challenges of Communication and Adaptation

A significant challenge discussed is the need to adapt to periods of limited communication with family and friends during deployments at sea. This is likened to army personnel going "outfield," though ME1 Kee Jie En notes it's "slightly better" on board with air conditioning and access to his phone. He describes the situation as "manageable" and "bearable" but acknowledges the necessity of adapting to not being able to contact loved ones while sailing.

Missing Milestones and Parental Pride

The inability to attend all significant life events, such as birthdays, due to sailing is a reality. ME1 Kee Jie En mentions missing his own birthdays. While acknowledging the sadness of his father's absence during these times, he also expresses pride in his father's service, knowing he is "out there serving, he's out there protecting the sea" while he celebrates in Singapore. The family makes an effort to attend crucial milestones like school graduations.

Intergenerational Mentorship and Support

ME1 Kee Jie En highlights the invaluable support he receives from his father, drawing on Kee Kiang Peng's decades of experience as a senior commander. He appreciates his father's ability to offer guidance, such as advising him to "calm down" or to "focus on this thing." These "little pushes" and support are deeply appreciated.

Conclusion

This transcript details a father-son journey within the Republic of Singapore Navy, illustrating the evolution of career aspirations, the challenges of military life, and the profound impact of familial support and mentorship across generations. It underscores the personal sacrifices made for service and the pride derived from contributing to national security.