Every year, we are grateful to meet Residents of Tanjong Pagar Town who joyfully pose for our National Day banners. Our photos captured their exuberance and excitement, but obviously cannot fully narrate their unique feelings and experiences around this special day.

 

We feel these stories are well worth sharing. That’s why we reached out to a few of them this year with 3 simple questions that will hopefully give you a better picture of who they are and why they celebrate National Day.

 

Their answers reflect what many of us likely associate with this time of year: duty and service, pride and patriotism, joy and hope for a brighter future.

Without further ado, let’s get to know these neighbours. We hope you enjoy meeting them as much as we did!

 

 

Gurdial Singh Sindhu, Bukit Purmei

 

If you had just 60 seconds, how would you introduce yourself?

 

My name is Gurdial Singh Sindhu. I am 76 years old, and a retired Police Officer.

 

What is your most memorable National Day story?

My most memorable National Day was when I was chosen to perform security coverage duty at the front of the VVIP area at the Padang.

How will you be celebrating our 60th National Day?

This year, I am participating in the mobile column as a Veteran Police Officer travelling in a Police Fast Response Car (FRC), alighting in front of the President and giving him a salute.

 

Kenny, Depot Road

 

 

 

If you had just 60 seconds, how would you introduce yourself?

 

It is a great day – and every day – to be living in our tiny red dot, Singapore.

 

My family and I are deeply grateful to call this nation our home. We love Singapore and are immensely proud of all that our country has achieved.

 

I had the honour of serving in our Army to protect this homeland we cherish. I often remind my family to never take our peace and progress for granted, and to always count our blessings.

 

As we look ahead, we pray and hope that Singapore will continue to shine brightly – a small nation, but a true miracle in the world.

 

Majulah Singapura! 🇸🇬

 

 

What is your most memorable National Day story?

For me, it was not a celebration – but a solemn moment that reminded me of what National Day truly stands for.

 

One of the most unforgettable experiences in my life was being part of the team that organised the street lining for Mr Lee Kuan Yew’s funeral procession in 2015. As Singaporeans gathered along the roads in the pouring rain to pay their final respects, I witnessed a nation united not just in grief, but in deep gratitude.

 

It was a humbling privilege to contribute, even in a small way, to honouring the man who laid the foundations of modern Singapore.

 

That day reminded me that our National Day is not just about parades or fireworks – but about the sacrifices, vision, and shared spirit that built this country.

 

How will you be celebrating our 60th National Day?

 

Keeping it simple and heartfelt – buying some good old comfort food (hello, McDonald’s), switching on the air-con, and soaking in the National Day Parade from the comfort of home.

 

Sometimes the best way to celebrate is to enjoy the blessings we have – peace, home, family, and the joy of being Singaporean.

 

Happy 60th Birthday, Singapore! ❤️🍟🎈

 

Jaselyn, Queenstown

 

If you had just 60 seconds, how would you introduce yourself?

My husband and I are first-time parents – a meaningful milestone, made even more special as our little one was born in the year Singapore celebrates her 60th birthday. This National Day holds extra significance for us, as we share in the pride of the nation while welcoming new life, surrounded by the warmth and unity of our Singapore community.

 

What is your most memorable National Day story?

Living in Queenstown, Singapore’s first satellite town, is a uniquely enriching experience. Home to a diverse community, it reflects the nation’s multicultural spirit, where people of all backgrounds connect through shared spaces and activities. This kampung spirit of togetherness, respect, and resilience makes Queenstown a true reflection of the inclusive and united Singapore we proudly call home.

 

How will you be celebrating our 60th National Day?

 

One of my fondest memories growing up is hearing the roar of fighter jets in the lead-up to National Day, a stirring reminder of Singapore’s proudest celebration.

 

Each year, the excitement builds as we come together in unity. This year is no different, we’ll be watching the majestic flypast and fireworks from our home in Queenstown, cherishing the shared spirit, pride, and tradition that define us as Singaporeans.