CMOA Army Chaplain Rev Dcn Peter Devenish-Meares
The annual Op. Rimau & Commando Day Commemorative Service was held on 12 July to honour the special forces personnel who paid the supreme sacrifice and all who have served and continue to serve.
The solemn, deeply moving service paid special tribute to the legendary Allied commandos of Z Special Unit, reflecting on their immense sacrifices in Singapore in 1944, subsequent historical engagements, and the ongoing dedication of all successor units.
During the service, the Padre delivered a powerful message detailing the four crucial "R’s" that our community seeks, prays for, and actively acts upon as we move forward in selfless service.
The Four "R’s" of Commando Remembrance
- Rest: Offering solemn prayers for eternal peace and rest for the noble fallen who made the ultimate sacrifice.
- Recovery: Committing to the essential recovery and comprehensive restorative care needed by those returning with illness or injury.
- Resilience: Praying for and fostering enduring strength for all personnel currently serving in uniform and throughout our wider communities.
- Right: Pledging to always do what is right, while we have the opportunity, even when the path is difficult and personal instincts would prefer otherwise.
This ongoing commitment to our families directly anchors our pillars of Recovery and Resilience. True resilience is not walked alone; it is nurtured within a community that embraces the loved ones, partners, and children who bear the quiet weight of service at home. By wrapping our families in enduring care and practical support, we strengthen the foundational safety net essential for the profound recovery and restorative care of our veterans.
Lest we forget.