henry

My Commanding Officer

The army camp was sub-divided into about ten units, each having their own functions and operations. The unit I attached to was a volunteer unit catering for people who were not called up. Some wanted to do their parts in serving the nation, some because of the prestiges as an army officer and yet there were others lured by the cheap beer offered.

The unit comprised people from all walks of life. Cabinet Minister, members of parliament, top lawyers, big bosses, artists ... down to casual workers. The Commanding Officer, a Major, was a civilian. He was the production manager of a major brewing company. Whenever there were documents for him to be endorsed, the chief clerk would asked for two volunteers to see him. Everyone in the office shot up their hands. For first timer, the CO would personally bring us around on a plant tour followed by drinking sessions.

He was a very nice man. He was not someone to put on air both in his capacity as a Commanding Officer in the army and as a production manager in civilian life. We felt very comfortable working under him. He was well liked by many.

For that, I saluted him.