Reflection for "The Soldier" by Rupert Brooke

1) Annually, we need young men in Singapore to do national service. Why do you think national service is compulsory in Singapore and why is this important?
In the above poem the speaker expresses his love for his country, England. Do you have the same spirit of patriotism towards Singapore? Why?

Conscription has been introduced in Singapore in 1967 when it decided to follow the defence model of Israel and Switzerland. The National Service has been made mandatory and men aged 19 needs to undergo it. Ever since the British left Singapore starting from 1967, it was completely defenceless to any foreign invasions. Singapore saw the need to build and consolidate its own defences so as to be self-reliant. Conscription and compulsory military training in Israel has seen its success when Israel thrashed Egypt in the Six-Day War.
Conscription means that there would be a steady pool of soldiers at the vanguard in any point of emergency and the military training provided during National Service will go a long way in beefing up Singapore's defence as soldiers would be well-equipped with combat skills to resist any aggression. Having a strong defence is the only key to Singapore's survival. As a minuscule city state, we are extremely vulnerable to many external threats. By establishing a sturdy defence force, we can thus deter our neighbouring countries from attacking us  too. Besides for the defence of Singapore, National Service was also inducted with the aim of instilling patriotism and loyalty into soldiers. This is because conscription can render them a sense of belonging to Singapore and also the responsibility towards the country. Patriotism is another crucial factor affecting the morale and attitude of soldiers in times of war and can also contribute significantly to our defence.

I actually do have a sense of patriotism and pride towards my homeland Singapore,but maybe not as profound as the poet's. I regard the daily flag raising ceremony in school with great seriousness.  Whenever I am reciting my pledge or singing the national anthem, I unknowingly feel a sense of pride and happiness swelling within me. I even reminded myself to practically carry out the aims of the country stated in the pledge. I also look forward to National Day when I can express my love towards my country. Though the history of independent Singapore only spans over a short period of four decades, I do cherish and take great pride in it.
I embrace multiculturalism, all the delicacies, the advancement of the society etc as an integral part of our daily Singaporean lives, and something as unique and priceless that are to be glorious of. In short, I am connected to Singapore through a homely feeling that can never be severed. As to the sensitive question of whether I would sacrifice for my country, I would say "Yes". I have this subliminal,strong urge of dedication and commitment not to allow my fatherland to be humiliated by others , and that is for sure genuine.

2) Do you find this same spirit of patriotism in Singapore? Why? Do you consider yourself a patriot to your country?

There may be some amount of this, but not much. One of the main reasons is that people nowadays in Singapore are more materialistic, lead more hectic lives and are more career-oriented, thus they do not pay much attention to the welfare of the country. It  may be also because of the monotonous and uninspiring life
in Singapore. There are also not much events such as war taking place here that can stimulate the people's commitment towards Singapore. However, I think that the practice of multiculturalism here cultivates an identity and  and national pride in some people. I think I can be termed as a patriot towards Singapore. Anybody who feels deeply rooted  to his country and proud of it should by right be deemed as a patriot.

3)Consider your loyalty to Hwa Chong. Are you proud to be a Hwa Chongian? How have you shown your loyalty and pride as a Hwa Chong student?

I would like to confidently tell you that Hwa Chong itself has won my loyalty and pride towards it. This is done particularly through its rich heritage and its glorious achievements in the past, and I feel honored to be able to uphold the reputation of my school as a present Hwa Chongian. I will try to offer my support for our school teams when they participate in competitions, and had done so for a few times in the past year. I, myself, had also enrolled myself in the SYF competition for my CCA, Chinese Drama, in the hope of contributing back to my school with honours.