At this year’s PNSF Centralised Promotion Ceremony, two officers share their diverse journeys as Police National Service celebrates its golden jubilee.
By: Domnic Dass
On 10 July 2025, in a packed auditorium at Ngee Ann Polytechnic, two Full-time Police National Service (PNSF) officers took to the stage to share their stories at the PNSF Centralised Promotion Ceremony. Their different roles – one in administrative support and the other in frontline operations – exemplify the diverse contributions of Police National Service (PNS) officers to Singapore’s safety and security for the past 50 years.
Supporting Frontline Operations Behind the Scenes
For Special Constable Sergeant (SC/Sgt) Eden Cheong, his journey in the Singapore Police Force (SPF) represents more than just National Service (NS) – it marks a chapter of personal growth and achievement.
The first in his family to don the blue uniform, SC/Sgt Cheong’s path to the Force was fuelled by determination. Starting from the Institute of Technical Education College West where he pursued a Higher NITEC in Accounting, he progressed to Ngee Ann Polytechnic where he received a diploma in Business Studies before enlisting in July 2023.
“Like many others, my journey began at the Home Team Academy with a fresh crew-cut,” SC/Sgt Cheong recalls with a smile. “But what started as an obligation became a truly meaningful experience in the SPF.”
As a Staff Assistant (SA) to the Manpower Officer (PNS Officers) at Woodlands Police Division, SC/Sgt Cheong handles PNS-related matters such as annual call-ups. He plays a crucial role behind the scenes, coordinating deployments for major events including the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix and National Day Parade.
Under the guidance of regular officers, particularly his supervisor Station Inspector Omar Bin Hitam, SC/Sgt Cheong found more than mentors – he found a second family. “My supervisor taught me that effective manpower management isn't just about numbers; it’s about understanding our officers’ strengths and supporting their development,” he shares.
This mentorship transformed his approach to his role, helping him understanding the human aspect of Police work.
Beyond his manpower role, SC/Sgt Cheong serves as a Police Contact Tactics and Weapon Handling trainer, taking pride in preparing fellow officers for operational readiness.
“Training others helped me appreciate the high standards we maintain in the Force,” he explains. “Whether it’s proper weapon handling or mastering contact tactics, every skill we teach contributes to officers’ safety and operational effectiveness.”
Walking the Beat, Finding His Path
For SC/Sgt Bismonte Justin Aldred Satorre, his PNS path led straight to the frontlines. A Temasek Polytechnic Aerospace Engineering graduate, SC/Sgt Justin found his calling in ground response work at Orchard Neighbourhood Police Centre (NPC).
“When it was time to choose our vocation, the decision was clear for me,” SC/Sgt Justin explains. “I wanted to be where I could serve the community directly, responding where help was most needed.”
Daily patrols through Orchard Road’s bustling streets have taught SC/Sgt Justin the nuances of community policing. “Every shift brings different challenges,” he shares. “From helping lost tourists to managing complex situations, we need to be prepared for anything.”
SC/Sgt Justin’s ability to remain calm under pressure has earned him the recognition of regular officers. His first arrest remains a defining moment. Responding to a call about a man who appeared unconscious, SC/Sgt Justin and his partner arrived at the scene to find that the subject had turned aggressive. Together, the officers demonstrated quick thinking and action to de-escalate the situation and place the subject under arrest.
The 23-year-old’s passion for policing has grown beyond his NS obligations. Currently undergoing the selection process to become a regular officer, SC/Sgt Justin sees his future in the Force. “The more I serve, the more I realise this is my calling,” he explains. “Every patrol reinforces my decision to make this my career.”
At Orchard NPC, SC/Sgt Justin has found strong support from his colleagues for his application. “We work as a team with the same passion and sense of duty, and they’ve been incredibly encouraging,” he says. “Being the first in my family to serve in the SPF makes this journey meaningful, and knowing I’ll continue this path as a regular officer makes it even more special.”
Continuing the PNS Legacy
As these two officers stand at different points in their service journeys – SC/Sgt Cheong preparing for university while SC/Sgt Justin pursues his aspiration to join the SPF as a regular officer – their reflections capture the enduring spirit of PNS in its 50th year.
“NS may go by quickly but its impact lasts a lifetime,” SC/Sgt Cheong shares. “The lessons learned and bonds formed here will stay with me long after I leave. I’m looking forward to continuing my service as a PNS officer.”
For SC/Sgt Justin, the journey continues: “The greatest reward is knowing that we’ve helped make Singapore safer. That’s why I want to make this not just my NS experience, but my life’s calling.”
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