Set aside National Education shows for pioneers next year

This year's National Day Parade rehearsals have been going on for the past few weeks.

During the few times I was at the Esplanade, I noticed many elderly people sitting by the bay area, watching the Red Lions parachutists, fly-past, sea displays and fireworks.

On July 5, I happened to have two tickets but decided to give them to two of these elderly individuals. They were very happy to be able to enter the parade ground to view the rehearsal. One of them told me he had never dreamt of having a chance to view the parade live.

I am sure there are many elderly folk like him who have that desire.

I have been to the National Day Parade and previews a few times, and the feeling is very different from watching the parade on television or by the sidelines.

Next year, Singapore is having its jubilee celebration. In line with paying tribute to the pioneer generation, may I suggest to the planning committee to set aside one or two of the National Education shows for this group of citizens, who have done so much for the country.

Give them the opportunity to be part of this milestone of our nation; I am sure many will cherish it.

-Andy Chew Teck Huat

This article was first published on July 15, 2014.
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