I have achieved what I intended to achieve in the army. I have proved to myself that I am not all brains and no brawn. It has been an amazing journey, a miraculous transformation from a timid, bungling recruit to a confident OCS-qualified soldier. Yes, I was selected for the cross-over. Unfortunately, my name was rejected by the manpower side because I have little time left on my term. A little disappointed surely, but it is a very comforting farewell gift from BSLC. If I want to go to OCS, I will have to extend my term by 6 months. Presently, I do not think it is worth it. I want to disrupt next year if MINDEF gives the green light. My studies take priority. By the way, I will be passing out next week.

The last 2 weeks has been very tough for me. I have been holding major appointments during the exercises and various trainings, taking a toll on my mental health. Haha. There is one exercise which would be the most memorable in my army life. I was the section commander for the section live firing a few days back. Imagine leading 7 men, firing at least 75 live rounds at the target boards 80m in front and commanding them to move forward group by group. It was especially beautiful at night when I could see the rounds zipping past me while running forward. This particular exercise is worth all the hard work for the past 9 weeks. Till now, I can still feel the excitement in me. And of course, before this, I was jolted by the unfortunate passing of my grandmother. It was difficult trying to focus back on training right after the funeral. I was easily distracted. I still made it in the end. 2 weeks gone, another 1 to go.

The highlight of next week is the 28km march. Much as I hate it, it is a symbol of graduation. After that, it will be goodbye to Tekong for a few months at least.