Of tradition and pride at Police Day Parade 2022.
By: Seah Hwee Khan
Police Life caught up with the Parade Commander of Police Day Parade 2022, Assistant Commissioner of Police (AC) Justin Wong. Ever wondered what it’s like to have to give commands to hundreds of parade participants in front of an audience that includes the President of Singapore? Read on to find out!
Hello, AC Wong! Can you tell us about your job in the Singapore Police Force (SPF)?
I’m the Assistant Director for Major Crime in the Criminal Investigation Department. I oversee investigations into cases involving murder, sexual assault, firearms and kidnapping, among other major crimes.
What does Police Day mean to you?
Marking Police Day reminds me that, as a Police officer, we’re part of something larger than ourselves. The traditions we observe – from the Police pledge we recite with pride, to the minute of silence that we observe for fallen comrades – link us to those who have served before us, and who have yet to serve. These traditions matter. I’m glad we managed to celebrate together once again on the Parade Square, after a three-year pause.
How did you feel when you found out that you were to be the Parade Commander for Police Day Parade 2022?
I felt a tremendous sense of responsibility, tinged with nervousness. The Parade Commander usually has the benefit of being the understudy the year before. But due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I didn’t have that opportunity. So, I was concerned about whether I’d be able to match the high standards of previous Parade Commanders.
If you could describe the experience as Parade Commander in one word, what would it be, and why?
Rewarding! The rehearsals weren’t always easy, to be honest. Sometimes, I could feel the afternoon sun through the toecaps of my boots. However, knowing that the parade participants were all there together helped me get through it. On top of that, when I about-faced and saw the sea of blue uniforms and peaked caps on the grandstand, that made it all worthwhile, because I remembered that I was doing it for all the SPF officers out there.
What do you think is the most challenging part about being the Parade Commander?
The most challenging part was “restarting the engine” after a pause of three years. Full credit must go to the team from Training Command (TRACOM) for their efforts. We haven’t had a Police Day Parade since 2019, which meant the organisers had to work hard to pull the pieces together. The TRACOM team did a fabulous job, and all credit goes to them.
What’s the best thing about being the Parade Commander?
Being able to catch up with old friends! I met officers who I worked with back in my training days and from my previous postings in SPF. I hadn’t seen several of them for some time, and I was glad to catch up with them over rehearsals.
What would you like to share with the participants of Police Day Parade 2022?
Before the Parade began, I went to each contingent and spoke with the parade participants. I could sense their pride and their determination to put on an excellent Parade. I’d like to say to the Parade participants that they delivered on that, and more. Thank you. It was my honour to have marched alongside all of you.
What advice do you have for the Parade Commander of the next Police Day Parade?
Enjoy the experience! The rehearsals may be “siong” but marching alongside your fellow officers to commemorate Police Day is well worth it!
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