Welcome

My name is Anuj Nirish Unni, and I am 19 years old. I was born in Dubai but moved to Singapore at just 11 months old. I spent the first six years of my education at the Overseas Family School (OFS) and completed the rest at the United World College of South East Asia East Campus (UWCSEA East Campus). Currently, I am serving my National Service (NS) as the Mortar Platoon Commander for the 3rd Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment (3SIR).

My journey through National Service has been both challenging and fulfilling. I began my training at the Basic Military Training Center (BMTC) on Pulau Tekong Island, where I spent the first nine weeks in Basic Military Training (BMT). Afterward, I was honoured to be selected as part of the top 10% of my cohort to attend the Officer Cadet School (OCS) at the Singapore Armed Forces Training Institute, Military Institute (SAFTI MI). During the final six months of OCS, I participated in the Field Artillery Officer Cadet Course (FAOCC), where I learned to operate complex machinery and understand the Singapore Artillery as a "system of systems." I was also one of five cadets chosen to specialise in the Mortar Tracked Carrier System, an artillery system used by Singapore’s Armour battalions. Upon commissioning from OCS, I completed the Standard Towed Mortar course, which focuses on artillery systems used by the Singapore Infantry. I am now serving as the Mortar Platoon Commander for 3SIR, where I will remain for the duration of my NS.

Entering the Singapore military as an international student was initially daunting. The language barrier posed a significant challenge, as many terms and instructions were unfamiliar, making it difficult to keep pace during training. Even though I held a Singaporean passport and had grown up here, I often felt like I didn't fully belong. My experience in the international school system made it harder to assimilate into local culture and customs, leaving me feeling like an outsider. However, I gradually found my footing and built lifelong friendships that transformed my NS experience into a positive and enriching journey.

Having a brother who went through OCS inspired me to pursue the same path. I watched him navigate the challenges of rigorous training and emerge as a competent leader, earning respect from both his superiors and subordinates. He became a mentor, sharing valuable insights into what it takes to lead in the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and the associated responsibilities. His journey fueled my interest in OCS and instilled in me the belief that I could rise to any occasion, regardless of the challenges ahead.

My experiences in OCS were both intense and transformative. From day one, I was immersed in a demanding environment that tested my physical strength and mental fortitude. Taking on various leadership roles, such as Cadet Sergeant Major and Cadet Section Commander, provided opportunities to navigate complex scenarios and make timely decisions under stress. I still recall the days spent in a sweat-drenched uniform, covered in mud and rain, enduring the harsh conditions of the jungle. Despite the challenges, it was a memorable experience that equipped me with valuable skills that extend beyond military life.

In conclusion, my NS journey has profoundly shaped my character and leadership qualities. From adjusting to military life in basic training to being the only Artillery Officer in my battalion, I have experienced significant personal and professional growth. The lessons I learned about resilience, teamwork, and commitment will guide me as I move forward in life. As I reflect on these experiences, I am grateful for the friendships formed and the skills acquired, all of which have paved the way for my future endeavours.