RSM Sam Choo was our RSM (Regimental Sergeant Major). The RSM maintained unit discipline. Although his role was similar to that of a school's discipline master, the RSM was much tougher. RSMs usually had a fearsome reputation and were revered by all, including officers.
RSM Sam Choo was no exception. A disciplinarian, he was the RSM of all RSMs. Many of us flout rules and regulations, but no one dared try anything funny with RSM Choo.
Although he was much feared, he was popular. (Another sergeant had this quality -- strict yet popular. See Army Memories (page 3) and scroll down to �Rude Early Morning Awakening.")
RSM Choo always dressed smartly and neatly, his uniform immaculately turned out as though he was on parade before the Prime Minister every day. It was his way of taking his job seriously. He walked with an air of confidence and authority, though not of cockiness. His steps were bold and sure. Without the aid of a loudspeaker, his commands could be heard from the length of two football fields away.
One encounter with RSM Choo left me an impression. On a sunny afternoon, we were at the parade square standing in formation, possibly wating for parade practice. He knew that we had time to kill, so he walked to us. I noticed that his uniform was full of medals, awards and decorations. I was in awe. He proceeded with a long monologue, the main point being that most of our problems were �self-created." Therefore, grumbling and complaining was useless. He also spoke against cowardice. �In all wars, there are cowards, but the coward will be the first shot by an enemy sniper. Yes, the enemy sniper will aim and fire. Guess who the bullet will strike?� He paused for effect, then answered himself, �The great coward!�
It was not so much the content of his speech. Rather, it was obvious to all that beneath his strict exterior, he cared for the common rank-and-file bottom-of-the-rung soldiers like us. The common soldier could tell if an officer or N.C.O. truly cared. It was not that we resented the strict sergeants and officers while liking the easier ones. It wasn�t that simple. Some strict sergeants were popular and well liked. RSM Choo was a prime example.
A few years ago, I read an army article announcing RSM Choo�s death from stomach cancer. I was grieved. Fond memories of him and the old army days flooded my mind. The General-secretary of the Singapore National Olympic Council Lieutenant-Colonel Chris Chan said, �He was an icon not just for the commandos, but the whole army. Indeed, all the regulars in the army know who�s Sam Choo."
I wasn�t a regular, but I had the honor of meeting RSM Choo. Thank you, RSM Choo, for teaching us discipline and for the pleasant memories. We miss your thundering commands. For Honor and Glory! |
