SAF CREST

Flags and symbols have a powerful emotive influence over people. Throughout history, they have been used by governments and organizations to rally and garner support and affiliations. In the SAF, military colours and logos are probably the most recognizable marks of identity. They forge a sense of belonging, esprit de corps and pride. While each of the three Services has its own crest, the one that undeniably binds all servicemen is the SAF Crest. For all Singaporeans, it represents our integrated armed forces.

The origins of the SAF Crest dates back to 11 March 1961 and fittingly, are intertwined with the story of Singapore’s first and oldest battalion (1 SIR). What started as a battalion logo was later adopted as the identity for the whole SAF.

Inaugurated on 1 July 1989, the SAF Flag had the SAF Crest emblazoned on the bottom right hand corner of the State Flag. It symbolised for the first time, the Army, Navy and Air Force working together as an integrated force. By operating as a whole system, the SAF’s capability was multiplied manifold as compared to if the Army, Navy and Air Force were to function individually. Consecrated at the 1989 SAF Day Parade, the new flag was handed over to then Chief of General Staff, LT GEN Winston Choo by the late President Wee Kim Wee.

The SAF Crest comprises the inscription, “Tentera Singapura” (Singapore Armed Forces) encircling the State Crest. This symbolises the protection and preservation of the values of democracy, peace, progress, justice and equality represented in the State Crest.