News
Farewell Ceremony for NCC Chairman 2011
We were honoured to be invited to perform for Mr Arthur Beng's farewell ceremony. The PDS team put in extra effort to cheorograph, and the performers spent more time training and practising for this large scale event as it was one of the most important performance we ever performed, and it resulted in a successful performance.
“This performance was the first and hopefully last one where we faced the worst of situations suitable for a performance: dark cold night, rainy weather with the cold wind blowing and tired arms from all the rehearsals in the afternoon. However, i believed we still managed to fight against all the odds and upheld the name of COE in PDS, giving the audience a stunning performance for them to remember. I am proud to be able to work with thes guys and I believe that we have done our best. It is of no question that we will always do better than before and strive for greater heights.” – SSG Bradford Loh Tao, Assistant Unit Sergeant Major HCINCC 2010/11, Performer for NCC Chairman Farewell Ceremony, 15 January, 2011
Exercise SUMAN Warrior
SUMAN, which consist of delegates from Singapore, UK, Malaysia, Australia and New Zealand, were lucky to witness one of Singapore's best PDS unit. It was the first time in our unit's history that we were invited to perform for an international event and it was indeed our honour to do so. The performance also received huge praise from the participants from other countries.
“It was really heartening to see close to 1 month of trainings and effort come to fruition during the performance. I felt that everyone performed extremely well during the event and that the delegates from other countries were truly impressed by our display.” – SSG Ooi Bo Wei, Unit Sergeant Major HCINCC 2010/11, Performer for Exercise SUMAN Warrior, 23 November, 2010
Challenge Quest 2010
Before the competition, participants trained for weeks even though it was during the exams period.Although we did not attained Champions for West district, the participants gave in their best for this competition.
“Before the start of the challenge quest, I felt rather nervous, but during the challenge itself, the thought that occupied my mind was to do my best. Although we did not attain first place but 2nd runner-up instead, the experience was unique and the trainings were rewarding.” – LCP Tan Jian Song, Participant for Challenge Quest, 28 October, 2010
As proud as Singapore was being the 1st to host the Youth Olympics Game (YOG), HCINCC was chosen to perform and we performed a stunning performance for the world to see. Held at Hwachong Institution Clock Tower, a national momument of Singapore, HCINCC Precision Drill Squad was the 1st in line to perform in front of Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports, Mr Vivian Balakrishnan. A job well done by our new cheorographers, who did not have much experience, for cheographing a dazzling performance.
“I feel that the performance has been very interesting as it is the first time that we are performing for such a large scale event. I feel proud that we were the opening performance, and feel honoured for being given such an important role. We had many tough trainings in between, but when I saw the replay of the performance, I felt that it was all worth it.” – 2SG Ng Kai Cong Benjamin, Performer for Youth Olympic Games, Journey of the Youth Olympic Flame August 11th 2010
Affirmation Ceremony 2010
This year, HCINCC was once again invited to present a Precision Drill Exhibition for the annual Affirmation Ceremony. The team was under pressure to deliver; this year’s ceremony, held at the Singapore Expo, was not only of a massive scale but featured extensive media coverage. This time, our PDS choreographers tried to add more spice to the choreography, and in the end, our Precision Drill Squad definitely lived up to expectations as the incoming cadets witnessed a breathtaking display of style and precision.
Freestyle Drill Competition 2010
2010’s batch of Part Ds have not actually gone for the Freestyle Drill Course which would have introduced us to the whole concept of freestyle drills and some drills that can be done. However, our ‘virgin’ effort by this batch produced an amazing result as we finished 4th for West District in the Freestyle Drill Competition, just one place short of making it to the finals of the competition to compete with other top schools from other districts. This end result is a product of the combined efforts of the choreographers and performers, and we would like to congratulate them for the labours of their efforts.
“I feel that the freestyle drill competition was truly an eye opener for many of us, as we had no prior experience in this competition before. Participating in this competition allowed us to interact with peers from other schools and it also let us learn from them to improve our drill standards.” – 2SG Shaun Lee Xuan Yang, Participant and 2IC/2nd Chereographer for Freestyle Drill Competition, February 2010
Orientation 2010
Orientation this year was held on 7 January. On this day, Secondary 1 students newly enrolled into Hwa Chong visited various booths around HCI set up in order to attract them to join their respective CCAs. For this year’s orientation, we set up several booths; the first was to show a corporate video to show the numerous activities that HCINCC takes part in. Secondly, students were led to witness an exciting display of arms drills and also to a PDS performance. Thirdly, we showcased some of the good effects that physical training in NCC provides. We also gave cadets a lengthy talk about the benefits of joining the unit. All in all, it was a successful event and students were enraptured by our displays.
HCINCC Annual End-of-Year Promotional Camp 2009
Our Annual NCC End-of-Year Promotional Camp was held from 9 November 2009 to 11 November 2009, and was a 3D2N affair. The demanding 3 day Unit Camp, like its namesake, was an opportunity for Part A cadets to show their initiative and endurance to NCOs and for Part B cadets to display their leadership capabilities in their roles as seniors to the Part As such that they would be considered for promotion. NCOs prepared rigorous and mentally strenuous activities for the cadets that would push them to the limit and out of their comfort zone, developing their ability to work under pressure as well as work with other cadets in their section. Such activities also helped the cadets to bond together as a company. The said activities included auctions (with bids in the form of PT), night FIBUA (fighting in built up area), a mini heritage trail and several km long route march. Time was also set aside for cadets to pen down their thoughts about their achievements and obstacles they had faced in the camp, allowing them to reflect on their performance in the camp. Overall, the camp was successfully planned and executed, and the cadets once again showed impeccable standards and commitment.
Shooting Competition 2009
Since shooting has never been HCINCC’s forte, our unit paid extra attention to this year’s competition, hoping to topple the traditional heavyweights in West District. After stringent selection tests were conducted among the NCOs, a team of four was selected and tasked to establish the unit as Shooting Competition champions. A few times a week, the team members underwent specialised training at the Yishun SAFRA Indoor Air Weapons Range’s Group Marksmanship Training Simulator (GMTS). To everyone’s disappointment, the team ultimately failed to attain the desired score at the Nee Soon Camp Live Firing Range, though they did in the process earn valuable BUC points for the unit. However, our unit did manage to top other schools which have traditionally done well in shooting.
Challenge Quest 2009
This year’s Challenge Quest was identical to the previous year in its format, with sit-ups, push-ups, running, and the Motivational Obstacle Course as its components. The four team members and a reserve, comprising both NCOs and cadets, worked hard to heighten their physical standards. They had to take time off their various commitments to train for this competition, and even underwent gruelling trainings during their examination period. Despite their efforts, the Challenge Quest team did not manage to bring back the trophy, and instead finished in second place in the West district. Regardless of their result, we are proud of our team members and their fierce dedication to HCINCC.
“Challenge Quest showed that NCC cadets had to be flexible in addition to being firm.” – LCP Ulric Teo Wei Jie, Part B Participant for Challenge Quest, October 2009
Orienteering Competition 2009
Having previously missed out on the trophy after a three-year winning streak, our unit doubled their drive and effort to earn it back this year. Five representatives from Part B 09, selected for their pace, skills and commitment, underwent gruelling training and practises to improve their standards. This time around, our efforts were rewarded as the team was crowned Orienteering Champions, bringing the shield back to our unit.
“This competition led me to realise that orienteering is not something one can do on one’s own, and instead requires a concerted effort from all members; each individual has to play a part to ensure the success of the team.” – LCP Samuel Boo Dalby, OC Team Captain, October 2009
6th and 7th Precision Drill Squad Auxiliary Instructors’ Course
This year, our unit sent six representatives from Part B 09 to the PDS Auxiliary Instructor’s Course, over two phases. The cadets had been chosen due to their proficiency in terms of PDS drills, as well as leadership capabilities. Two weeks after booking in, the cadets emerged with a 100% pass-rate, as well as refined drill standards and greater confidence in their ability. In addition, four out of the five cadets who attended the earlier phase topped the course, with the fifth cadet clinching sixth place overall; the cadet who attended the latter phase notched a second-place position.
Army Open House 2009
This was a challenge for HCINCC, being the first time our unit was invited to perform at the event. Despite a
massive time crunch, the performers overcame the odds with flair to produce a grand performance, wowing the audience with stylish choreography and sharp rifle drills. Having proved our ability to draw and impress the crowds, we hope the organisers would give us additional chances to perform for this event.
National Day Parade 2009
To our unit, the National Day Parade is the single, most important event of the year. It is the only chance we have to perform our drills in front of our school mates and teachers, and our only avenue to showcase our own set of strengths and skills. As with preceding years, cadets from Part A and B 2009 deemed proficient following many rounds of tests were chosen to represent our unit in either the Supporting Contingent or the prestigious Guard of Honour. Training under the sun for consecutive days, the cadets experienced significant improvement in terms of drill standards and endurance levels, with their efforts culminating in a sparkling display on the 7th of August.
“The event was successful and I was glad to gain experience in my role as Parade IC.” – USM, 2SG Wong Qin Jiang, HCI NDP Parade IC, August 2009
Official Retirement Day 2009
Official Retirement Day, or ORD, is the day when the unit will commemorate the passing out of the Part Ds by celebrating their unwavering effort and contributions to HCINCC. It is also the day in which the Part C cadets will officially take over the unit as NCOs. The Parts As, Bs and Cs put up entertaining performances and video montages to entertain the Part Ds in their last day as NCC cadets.
Specialists’ Course 2009
Our incoming batch of NCOs, Part C 09, did phenomenally well at the Specialists’ Course this year. The Specialists’ Course is meant to prepare cadets to start life as specialists and take charge in the unit. The Part Cs prepared with much effort for the course and their effort was rewarded as they outshined cadets from other schools in the same phase with their outstanding performance, winning 7 out of 12 awards in Phase 2 of the course, including the only 2 Company Best awards and the only 3 syllabus-related awards (GSK Best, IFC Best, Trainfire Best). Another Part C who went to the next Phase also managed to attain an award, GSK Best, bringing our total award tally up to 8 out of 13. This is an unprecedented feat that no other unit in Singapore has achieved.
“Specialists’ Course gave me greater exposure to the Singapore Armed Forces’ style of working.” – 2SG Perng Jia Jun, Foxtrot 3 Section Best, June 2009
Open House 2009
Open House is a school-wide event held to attract a new batch of Secondary Ones to join the school the following year. Besides attracting the students with academically related material, HCI also displays its plethora of CCAs to further entice future pupils. This was a chance for the incoming batch of NCOs, Part C 09, to get a feel of planning events and running them smoothly, as well as to have a try in choreographing performances and settling logistics. The event went smoothly and we impressed parents and primary school students alike with our display in various areas, such as in PDS and in physical ability. We shared with parents and students our past achievements and also expounded on the benefits of being in NCC.
“I’ve learnt that the best way to interest our audience, the Primary 6 students, is to directly engage with them in conversation.” – CPL Wong Qin Jiang, IC for Open House, May 2009
Republic of Singapore Air Force National Runway Cycling & Skating 2009
HCINCC’s PDS squad was, like in previous years, invited to perform at the National Runway Cycling & Skating 2009. The National Runway Cycling & Skating is an annual event held to foster bonds between members of the air force and their family. Just like last year, we performed marvellously. HCINCC is proud to have the recognition of the RSAF as having the premier PDS squad in Singapore.
Annual Combined Track & Field Meet or Combined Sports Meet 2009
The Combined Sports Meet (CSM) is an annual sporting (primarily track & field) event held with the participation of Nanyang Girls’ High and Hwa Chong Institution. Traditionally, our PDS squad performs at this meet, and this year was no different. What was different, though, was the ambitious and wildly innovative choreography, involving 48 performers, the largest amount of performers ever witnessed in the local PDS scene. The effort used in choreographing the performance and practising paid off as the whole school was impressed by the amazing choreography and drills displayed.
“A definite good opener and highlight of the whole event!” – Mr. Galvin Sng, HCI Counsellor and HCI Boarding School Boarding Mentor
Orientation 2009
In order to attract the new batch of Secondary Ones to join NCC in 2009, our unit went to full action so as to be able to put up a great performance on the day itself. We put on drill displays and booths to showcase our drills and past achievements, and also painted banners and created corporate videos. On that day, NCOs and cadets are present clad in No.1, No.3 and No.4 uniforms to impress. Our PDS squad showcased yet another amazing performance, and our Drill Contingent amazed everyone with their sharp and coordinated drills. The event itself was a success as we managed to gain the interest of many Secondary Ones, and eventually managed to attract a new batch that was larger than the previous one.
Christmas Party 2008
Instead of only performing for NCC related events and school events, our PDS squad also performs for community-related events. In this case, it was for Project Sunshine, a service-learning project that provides for the underprivileged in Clementi. To commemorate Christmas, Project Sunshine held a series of performances by various grassroots organisations; HCINCC was also invited by members of Project Sunshine to put up a spectacular performance for the community in Clementi. This performance was special in the sense that it was the first advanced drill performance by Part B 08, and also the first performance to only include Part Bs. The intense training held over the span of a few weeks as well as the extravagant choreography culminated in a magnificent performance, especially considering as it was the first performance with advanced drills for the Part Bs.
“I felt that the performance was almost flawless.” – LCP Ten Ting Kai, Performer, December 2008
Precision Drill Squad 5th Auxiliary Instructors’ Course
Being the sole Centre of Excellence for PDS, our unit have produced top notch cadets in every aspect of NCC, particularly the Precision Drill Squad (PDS). Every year, our unit will send the top 5 cadets who excel in the field of PDS to attend the prestigious PDS Auxiliary Instructors’ (AI) Course. The PDS AI badge is one of few prestigious badges that can be worn on the No.1. In 2008, HCINCC sent 6 cadets (2 cadets tied for the 5th position) to attend the course. In this gruelling 2 week course, the cadets are pushed to their limits in the aspects of leadership, standards as well as endurance. And like previous years, these 6 cadets performed outstandingly in the course. They passed the course with flying colours, clinching all the top 6 positions in the course, once again proving HCINCC proud and deserving of the title of Centre of Excellence for PDS.
“10 days of gruelling training. Not a moment of regret.” – LCP Qu Zhewei, Participant in PDS 5th AI’s Course, November 2008
Shooting Competition 2008
The shooting competition is held annually to spur cadets to improve their proficiency in marksmanship. This year, cadets were selected after stellar results when shooting at the Yishun SAFRA Indoor Air Weapons Range’s Group Marksmanship Training Simulator (GMTS). Cadets trained further regularly at the GMTS to improve their shooting skills. This training was not without results as the Part B team managed to win 3rd in West District.
Challenge Quest 2008
Challenge Quest 2008 is a revamp of the Challenge Quest seen in 2005; this year, there were only a few components – namely, sit-ups, push-ups, and a 1km run and a Motivational Obstacle Course. The challenge, as is so aptly named, was present in that 50 sit-ups and 50 push-ups had to be completed with 1 minute each, and that the team had to complete the run and the obstacle course as fast as possible. Both the NCOs and the cadets involved trained hard for this competition, and their efforts paid off as they were rewarded with the 1st place in the West district, awarding our unit with valuable Best Unit Competition points.
“Motivation, determination and time. From this experience, I now know that those are what constitute success.” – PTE Keith Ong Kang Wei, Part A Participant in Challenge Quest, October 2008
Orienteering Competition 2008
Orienteering Competition is a major competition that HCINCC has traditionally done well in. HCINCC has won the Orienteering Competition for its route three years in a row, from 2005 to 2007. This year, the team of four and the reserve from Part B 08 worked with much effort to deliver the same results as their seniors. The training proved to help as this batch was able to achieve extremely fast timings that were on par or even better than their seniors. However, the introduction of a theory test for this year’s Orienteering Competition undermined our efforts. While our team managed to attain the fastest timing for the practical area of the competition, we were lacking somewhat in the theory test, and in the end did not manage to bring back the Orienteering Shield. The cadets who were involved, however, still appreciated the chance to partake in the competition and do their best, regardless of the result.
“We may not have won. However, the times our team spent training for this competition and the effort we put in; those memories and takeaways, I will keep forever.” – LCP Ang Tan Yang, OC Team Captain, August 2008
National Day Parade 2008
Like in the previous year, HCINCC participated in the school’s celebration of Nation Day by sending a Guard of Honour contingent and a supporting contingent. Rigorous selection tests were held during trainings to choose Part As and Part Bs who had good standards in drills to perform in the parade. Both contingents did our unit proud by showcasing flawless and sharp drills in front of the whole school, impressing the crowd.
“NDP08 could be described as a new milestone for HCINCC. The Guard of Honour displayed the true spirit of confident and disciplined cadets, and the supporting contingent did not disappoint despite being newcomers. HCINCC marched passed and marched off with heads held high.” – USM, 2SG Gordon Goh Geng Ming, HCI NDP Parade 2IC, August 2008
Republic of Singapore Air Force National Runway Cycling & Skating 2008
HCINCC’s PDS squad was invited to perform at the National Runway Cycling & Skating 2008. The National Runway Cycling & Skating is an annual event held to foster bonds between members of the air force and their family. This year, we performed spectacularly and families all around were all very much entertained by our display. HCINCC is proud to have the recognition of the RSAF as having the premier PDS squad in Singapore.
Singapore Youth Festival Opening Ceremony 2008
Having had the chance to perform at the Affirmation Ceremony 2008 just two months ago, having another chance to perform in the Singapore Indoor Stadium for the 2nd time was a pleasant surprise. This time, it was an even larger scale performance than AC 08; there were to be two performances, one for the preview show and one for the actual event itself. Our performance was to be one of three before the parade started, the rest being freestyle drill displays by Boy’s Brigade and Red Cross. To crowds of over 3000 and 7000 people respectively, we performed spectacularly and again upped the ante for innovation in choreography and coordination, a feat in a performance with 30 performers. Once again, we were greeted with loud cheering during and after the performance, for we had achieved our aim to impress, and showed the ability of HCINCC PDS to showcase impressive performances again and again.
“The Singapore Youth Festival Opening Ceremony performance was a memorable and enriching experience for me. It required much courage to face a crowd of this size.“ – LCP Kenneth See Dehui, Performer, June 2008
Affirmation Ceremony 2008
Having the chance to perform at the Affirmation Ceremony (AC) 2008 was an honour for our PDS squad. AC is held annually to inaugurate Part A cadets into NCC. This year’s AC was a particular grand affair as it was held at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. This performance was a great chance for our unit to showcase the strengths of HCINCC PDS. All the time spent and all the time spent training paid off on 5th April, where we performed to loud cheers from the audience of over 6000 people. In the process, we managed to surpass our expectations and performed better than ever.
“I was nervous at first about performing for the first time, especially after seeing the large crowds; but when the performance started, I felt nothing but pride to be able to present Precision Drill to our Part As.” – LCP Louis Ngia Jin Liang, Performer, April 2008