Signal Operator

Unfortunately, Terence and I are separated right at the start of Day 1; both of us will be having different vocations. Since what I am and will be studying is RESTRICTED (in case some nosey officers stumble onto my blog and complain), I cannot reveal much. Generally, going to Signals Institute is like going to boarding school, with occasional pumpings thrown in to maintain our fitness (maintain being the key word here).

I am quite blessed to learn many practical skills there, possibly being lifeskills. In this study-intensive 9 weeks course, I got a chance to be a technician and navigator. Learning physics, communications engineering (wtf!) and radio communications there as well, which Eddie Cai would be very pleased. At the end of the course, we will be sent to learn how to drive military vehicles.

Misconception: My vocation rewards people with free driving license.

Truth: It is not free. Have to clock

7000km of driving distance in 2 years of NS (7000!) to be converted to civilian license. And only 1/2 of my platoon (12 out of 24 in my platoon, going by the numbers probably) will be learning driving; you will only get the license if you pass.

Food served is

much better than BMT. However, to make up for quality, quantity is compromised, sadly. IPPT training at Signals Institute is like PE lessons in JC. Afraid that my fitness can only be maintained there, so I would prolly have to go out and train. I feel less fit now than BMT.

Toilet facilities are comparatively better here than BMT. At least we have the decency to have closed doors when we bath. The same cannot be said of our bunks though. Beds at BMT are much better, and there are

no ratholes in the corridors at Tekong. :S :S :S. There is not much regimentation, since we are here to learn. Handphones are allowed (including charging) after office hours. As long as we keep the areas clean, we can munch on tidbits.

Much to learn there. Not as slack as Dingjie's vocation though (:, but I am glad to be learning. Hoping to get my

blue beret soon. Got a test on Monday; have to start a diesel-powered generator...