Welcome Remarks by President Tony Tan Keng Yam at the Aides-De-Camp Appointment and Appreciation Ceremony Dinner

Dr Ng Eng Hen, Minister for Defence

Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman, Minister of State for Defence and National Development

Distinguished Guests

Members of the Honorary Aide-de-Camp (ADC) Corps

Ladies and Gentlemen

            My wife Mary and I are pleased to host the Appointment and Appreciation Ceremony Dinner for our Honorary ADCs this evening.

            The Honorary ADC is an integral part of the Presidency. Our Honorary ADCs help plan, manage and execute state functions and events involving the President. These events include the President hosting visiting dignitaries and engaging in diplomatic exchanges to promote Singapore’s bilateral and international relations thereby opening doors for Singaporeans to opportunities around the world. 

            ADCs are involved in ceremonies officiated by the President to recognise achievements by outstanding individuals.  Individuals who had excelled and made noteworthy contributions to Singapore are held up as role models to encourage and inspire other Singaporeans.  Our ADCs also work with community organisations to organise events that bring together Singaporeans from all walks of life to celebrate all that we value as a nation.

            2013 was an eventful year for the Honorary ADC Corps. Our Honorary ADCs were involved in over a hundred events last year. Tonight’s ceremony and dinner gives me the opportunity to express my appreciation and give recognition to you for your hard work and the sacrifices you have made in the past year, to ensure the smooth running of these events.

            Your commitment in putting the many extra hours of hard work on top of your primary duties to plan and manage these events is much appreciated. I would like to extend my appreciation to your families and loved ones, for their unwavering support and understanding that made it possible for you to dedicate the time required to perform your Honorary ADC duties.

            At the ceremony earlier this evening, we saw the presentation of certificates of appreciation to the Honorary ADCs who will be retiring from the Corps this year.  Mary and I thank you for your years of dedicated service and invaluable contributions.

            We wish you all the best in your future endeavours and trust that the exposure you have gained and friendships you have forged as Honorary ADCs have broadened your experience and expanded your networks. We hope that you will look back at your stints as Honorary ADCs with satisfaction and fondness.

            The ceremony also saw the re-appointment of currently serving Honorary ADCs and appointment of new Honorary ADCs into the Honorary ADC Corps. The responsibility is heavy and the expectations of you are high. In your interactions with foreign dignitaries and local guests, you will leave a deep impression on them.

            Your bearing, disposition, competency and knowledge will reflect on the highest office of our nation.  I am confident that you will rise to the challenges of your duties and keep our flag flying high. The diversity of experiences, skills and talents of the SAF, Police and SCDF officers in the ADC Corps, which includes regulars as well as NSmen, is an asset to the Presidency.

            I would like to thank the Chief of Defence Force, Commissioner of Police, Commissioner of SCDF and all supervisors for your support in nominating some of your best officers into the Honorary ADC Corps and continuing to support these officers whenever they are called upon to serve my office.  Your recognition of their efforts and continuing support will encourage and motivate more outstanding officers to step forward to serve in the Honorary ADC Corps.

            Once again, I thank everyone here for your continued support and I wish all of you a pleasant and enjoyable evening.