11th SNCO Course 2011

While the rest of the student population were busy enjoying their much awaited June holidays with meet ups and getaways, 122 of us across different schools spent it in a different manner, by taking part in the 11th SNCO Course from 6 to 10 June 2011. Fear and anxiety were amongst the many emotions felt and I kept questioning how my fate would turn out to be in this span of five days. For I predicted that this course would be no easy feat, and that turned out to be a reality.

On one of the days we had to do our “MOI (Method of Instruction) Presentation”. My platoon was split into two groups and my group was assessed by HQ NCDCC Instructors. Well known for their high expectations, all of us attempted to impress them with our best presentation standards without allowing our nerves to get the better of us. It was really interesting to see my platoon mates present, and apart from learning more about NCDCC related topics, I took home a couple of learning points from their unique presentation styles.

It was a personal aim of mine to attain a Footdrill Gold badge, and as far as I was concerned, no amount of exhaustion was going to stop me from giving by best. My voice was definitely put to the test with me suffering from a sore throat, yet I endured through and was surprised to be complimented by my assessors on a job well done. That truly gave me a morale boost at a time when I needed it most.

The last day of our course was undoubtedly the most memorable day for me. It surely came across as a pleasant surprise when I was selected as a BOS for the final day. My heart was pounding really fast and I gave it my best shot knowing that this would probably be a once in a lifetime experience for myself. In an activity, all of us were required to put to use all our skills learnt thus far, ranging from rescue to first aid. It was really nice to see my teammates uniting as one, clearly showcasing the bond all of us have painstakingly fostered over the period of five days.

Perhaps the biggest surprise came to be when I was informed that I emerged as the Best Trainee for the 11th SNCO Course. An overwhelming happiness overtook any other existent emotion in me as I almost broke down, yet I composed myself and went through the rest of the day in as calm a state as I possibly can be. As I led my batch mates in reciting the NCDCC pledge, I recalled those fond moments, now memories. We left the gates of HTA as SNCOs, a huge responsibility as I help my unit attain greater heights.

By: SGT Nur Atirah
Pei Hwa Sec