It was hard to gauge their age at first. Most looked like they were in their 60s. A few were probably in their 70s, maybe even 80s. Yet they were all smartly turned out in their old military and police uniforms that recalled Singapore’s early years as an independent nation.

But what really struck me on July 18 when I first saw the uniformed veterans in this year’s “Vintage Parade” contingent was how expressive they looked. Instincts from my previous career in journalism told me these guys lived through interesting times and had great stories to tell. I made a mental note to find a way to photograph them up close and coax some stories out of them.

This portrait series and the accompanying video interviews are the result of two makeshift studio sessions on July 25 and August 01. It’s my little tribute to the veterans for their service to the country. Unlike Americans, we Singaporeans don’t openly revere or often thank those in the uniformed service. The context is vastly different, of course. But this feels like a good year to show some appreciation, given the number of hours they are putting in for the SG50 National Day Parade rehearsals.

This series is not exhaustive. I didn’t have enough time to photograph the full “Vintage Parade” contingents, which consist of 450 participants representing the SAF, SCDF, Police, HDB, PA, POSB, PSA, PUB, SIA, and SingHealth. I focused on the SAF - the army, navy and the air force - as well as the Police and SCDF veterans whom I could persuade to be photographed for this project. There wasn’t time either to talk to many of them at length.

I know many of us are cynical about the SG50 hoopla. But I’d honestly say that I have been moved by the dedication and sense of pride these veterans have shown. They have been rehearsing since February, sacrificing their Saturdays when they could be relaxing elsewhere. When you are at their age, you just don’t need to do stuff like this unless you want to, or believe in it.

So don’t just look out for the fighter jets and fireworks at this Sunday’s parade. Give these old-timers a big hand when you see them march by.

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