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Orchid Park Secondary School – National Police Cadet Corps Bi-Annual Newsletter Volume 1, June 2007
Page 1 of 13
Contents
Message from OC ------------------- 1by A/ASP Toh Wee Teck
“Pride & Passion” ------------------- 2by A/ASP Toh Wee Teck
Words from a New Officer -------- 2by INSP Tan Geok Bee
My Recollection of 71st
CIBTC -- 3by P/CI Er Shi Tao Ronald
An Unforgettable Experience ---- 4by SGT Kee Boon Kiang
Overcoming My Fear --------------- 6by SSG Nur Afifah Husna Bte Azmi
NCO Camp --------------------------- 7by SGT Chia Pei Ting
Visit to “Reflections at Bukit Chandu” ------------------------------- 8by SGT Ong Sze Li
Lessons from the Battle at Pasir Panjang --------------------------------- 9
Message from OCDear all,
I would like to extend my warmest welcome to INSP
Tan Geok Bee and the new cadets who just joined our big
family. Also, I would like to welcome back to our unit, P/CI Er
Shi Tao Ronald (of D06 CIBTC) and P/CI Muhammad
Lokman Bin Kamsir (of J07 CIBTC).
I would also like to congratulate all the cadets who
were promoted in the recent promotion exercise; especially the
two Station Inspectors, SI Toh Zheng Yan and SI Veronica
Chong Meng Qi. Well done, guys & gals!!
I would also like to announce that SI Toh Zheng Yan
and SSG Nur Afifah Husna Bte Azmi have been awarded the
Best Unit Cadets (male & female respectively) for 2007.
On behalf of OPSS NPCC Unit, I would also like to
extend my congratulations to SSG Quek Yong Jun for attaining
the prestigious SPF-NPCC badge, a first for our unit. Hope
there will be more to come in the following years.
I am also pleased and honoured to announce that our
unit had attained a BRONZE award for UOPA 2006. This
would not be possible if not for the dedication and contribution
from everyone in our unit. A job well done to all teacher
officers, cadet inspectors, non-commissioned officers and
cadets!!
This year, our target is to obtain a SILVER award for
UOPA 2007, which will be a first for our unit. Let us work
together to achieve that goal!!
A/ASP Toh Wee Teck
Orchid Park Secondary School – National Police Cadet Corps Bi-Annual Newsletter
Volume 1, June 2007
Page 2 of 13
This year is a very special year for our unit as it marks a few “first-times”
for our unit. For example, it is the first time that we are starting a bi-annual
newsletter (the one that you are reading right now) and the first time that we
have a recipient for the SPF-NPCC badge, the most prestigious award for a
cadet. This award is only awarded to the top 2% cadets from the entire Sec 4 &
5 NPCC cohort. For a unit as young as ours (started in 1999), I think it is a
great achievement. It is a feat that we can all be proud of.
This year, it is also the first time that we have a motto for our unit; “Pride & Passion”. It signifies the
dedication and enthusiasm that we have in carrying out our duties and responsibilities, which complements
with our unit’s mission of nurturing leaders of the future. We hope that after going through the 4 to 5 years
programmes planned and organized by our unit, all our cadets will be able to acquire the qualities of a leader.
Some of these qualities include self-discipline, care and concern, respect, teamwork, punctuality, confidence,
responsibility, independence and integrity. Other than acquiring the qualities of a leader, we also hope that our
cadets will be able to exhibit these qualities in their daily lives as well. The motto can also be seen on the back
of our new unit polo t-shirts. This serves as a constant reminder for all our cadets.
Finally, I hope that all our cadets will be able to truly lead with PRIDE and serve with PASSION !!
A/ASP Toh Wee Teck
Words from a New OfficerHi, one and all from OPSS NPCC unit!
I am INSP Tan Geok Bee. I teach Chemistry, Science and Mathematics. Most of you may not know me
as I am new in Orchid Park Secondary School. I joined OPSS in the beginning of this year. Previously, I was
from Ahmad Ibrahim Secondary School. Though I am new to OPSS, I am not new to the National Police Cadet
Corps. I had been with AISS NPCC unit since 2002.
The one thing that strikes me most about this unit is the strong team spirit and cohesiveness among the
cadets. I can see that the unit is very motivated and I hope that we can all work together to achieve the Silver
award for the Unit Overall Proficiency Award this year.
Last but not least, I am very happy and excited to be a part of
OPSS NPCC unit and I look forward to working with all of you. I
believe that together we can help the unit to scale to a greater height!!
INSP Tan Geok BeeMe and My Little Girl
Orchid Park Secondary School – National Police Cadet Corps Bi-Annual Newsletter
Volume 1, June 2007
Page 3 of 13
My Recollection of 71 st CIBTC I have learnt and gained a lot during my 4 years in NPCC. I have learnt the importance of self-
discipline, teamwork, responsibility and understand the qualities of a leader. I have always wanted to
contribute to the Corps (even after I graduated from OPSS). Furthermore, the CIs in my unit were an
inspiration to me. They were dedicated and responsible leaders and mentors to us. We were like a big family
and the CIs were our elder brothers and sisters. The passion that I have for the Corps led me to make one of the
most important decisions of my life – to become a Cadet Inspector.
When I was still a Senior NCO in my unit, I was asked if I wanted to come back to serve in my unit as
a CI. I agreed without any hesitation. Thus, I was enrolled into the 71 st Cadet Inspector Basic Training Course
under the recommendation of my OC unit.
Days before the commencement of the course, we were asked to go down to Home Team Academy to
collect our No. 1 and No. 3 uniforms. The CI Instructors at the uniform collection set the tone for the course.
They made me realise that this course is unlike any that I had attended. As I was gearing up for the course, I
felt nervous and scared as images of the worst-case scenarios flashed into my mind. My mind was filled with
uncertainties. Even so, I was still looking forward to the course as I will get to know fellow ex-NPCC cadets
who, like me, have a passion for NPCC.
Finally, 8th December 2006 arrived. I was placed into Alpha squad which happens to be the first duty
squad. We were always late for our activities. At the end of the day, during our squad debrief, our instructors
stressed to us the importance of punctuality. This made me realise that no matter what additional duties we
had, we should still be punctual for all our activities. Being punctual for an event requires self-discipline and it
is a gesture of respect to others.
Passing-Out Parade of 71st CIBTC at HTA
Orchid Park Secondary School – National Police Cadet Corps Bi-Annual Newsletter
Volume 1, June 2007
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One of the most invaluable lessons that I
learnt from the course was to make the best of an
adverse situation. Given a situation, different
people will react differently. To illustrate this,
imagine placing a carrot, an egg and coffee powder
into three containers of hot water. The three items
will behave differently under the same situation.
These three items can be used to describe three
types of people. The carrot will be softened in the
hot water. This represents a person who cannot
adapt to the situation and will be softened or
weakened under a difficult situation. The egg, on
the other hand, will be cooked and become a hard-
boiled egg. This represents someone who grows in
a trying situation and become hardened in the
process. This reminds me of a saying; “When the
going gets tough, the tough gets going.” As for the
coffee powder, it will dissolve in the hot water and
produce an aroma. This represents a person who
can adapt well to the situation and shine in the
process. I hope I can learn to be like the coffee
powder. What about you? Which category will you
fall into?
I had a tough and tiring, but yet enjoyable
and inspiring time at the 71st CIBTC. I have learnt
a lot of valuable lessons and acquired some
priceless skills. I will miss the good (and the bad)
times that I had spent at the course with my fellow
course-mates. However, deep down in my heart, I
know our paths will cross again and each of us will
continue to serve and contribute to NPCC in
whatever ways we can.
P/CI Er Shi Tao Ronald
An Unforgettable Experience
On 20th of January 2007, I woke up very early
that morning, at 5:45am. I was both nervous and
excited as that day was the day of the High Rope
Challenge (HRC) at Pulau Ubin.
All Sec 4 & 5 NPCC cadets from my unit
have been instructed to gather at the school foyer by
7am. We boarded the bus and headed to Changi Jetty
where we were to take a bum boat to Pulau Ubin. The
trip from our school to Pulau Ubin was about an hour
and a half.
When we reached Pulau Ubin, two vans were
hired to ferry us to the NPCC Campsite where the
HRC was to be held. Along the way, we could see
other NPCC cadets from other units walking or
cycling to the NPCC Campsite. We felt very fortunate
that transport was provided.
At last, we arrived at our destination. We
were one of the first few units to reach; hence, we had
to wait for the other units from Area 2. As I waited,
frightful thoughts began to creep into my mind. To
calm myself down, I started chatting with my fellow
squad-mates.
When everyone had arrived, the Camp
Warden delivered a speech, telling us about the
campsite and its facilities. After that, we were each
given a safety helmet and a harness. We were also
briefed on the safety aspects for the HRC and taught
how to put on the helmet and harness correctly.
Finally, we were all geared up and ready to
embark on our HRC experience. There were a lot of
high element obstacles for us to try out but due to the
bad weather, most of us only managed to try one
Orchid Park Secondary School – National Police Cadet Corps Bi-Annual Newsletter
Volume 1, June 2007
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The other High Element Obstacles at HRC
Flying Fox – the Descent Flying Fox – the Landing
Aaahh…!!
Flying Fox – the Take-Off
Before the HRC, I had heard how fun Flying Fox is from my seniors and friends who have tried it. I was
excited and was looking forward to it. From afar, the Flying Fox looked fun and easy but as we got nearer to the
station, I could feel the butterflies in my stomach. We had to climb up the tower, which was seven storeys high,
before we could experience the Flying Fox. The ascent up the tower was terrifying, especially when I looked
down at my fellow squad-mates. When I reached the top, two cadet inspectors helped to secure the rope to my
harness. I was then instructed to sit on the wooden ledge. The view there was breathtaking. Finally, I was ready
to try the Flying Fox.
As I glided down the rope, I could not help but scream. It was a scary experience to descend from such
a height. I could feel the wind blowing strongly at me. In less than a minute, my feet touched ground. Though
frightening, the experience was incredible. At last, I had tried the Flying Fox.
I felt fortunate that I am a NPCC cadet as I got a chance to go for the HRC and experience the Flying
Fox – an experience that I will never forget for the rest of my life.
SGT Kee Boon Kiang
Orchid Park Secondary School – National Police Cadet Corps Bi-Annual Newsletter
Volume 1, June 2007
Page 6 of 13
On 20th January 2007, my squad was
scheduled to go for High Rope Challenge (HRC) at
the NPCC Campsite. HRC is a 1-day activity in
which Sec 4 & 5 NPCC cadets get to try the high
element obstacles. Though I have attended various
adventure training camps, like NPCC ATC, OBS
and National Camp, I was hesitant to attend this
event. This was because I have a problem – a phobia
of heights!!
To make matters worse, most of my fellow
squad-mates were all hyped up about this event as
they were excited and looking forward to it. There
was much talk about this activity, especially the all-
famous Flying Fox, which happens to be what I
dreaded the most. At one point, I was even tempted
to skip the HRC. My OC and some of my close
friends-cum-squad-mates reassured and persuaded
me to go for the event and overcome my fear.
Eventually, I decided to give it a shot.
The day finally arrived and we waited for
the commencement of the HRC. I started to feel the
jitters again. I began to regret allowing myself to be
persuaded to turn up for the activity. Finally, it was
my turn to try the Flying Fox. As I looked up at the
21-metre tall tower, I felt nervous and tensed.
Slowly and steadily I ascended the tower. At last, I
was at the top of the seven storey high tower. It was
a terrifying experience for me. Fortunately, I saw CI
Teresa. She is a cadet inspector that I knew from
“Toy Soldier”. It was reassuring and comforting for
me to see a familiar face at that moment. I felt the
sudden urge to run over and hug her but given the
circumstance that I was in, it was safer and saner for
me to remain where I was.
Overcoming My Fear
Soon, I found myself seated at the wooden
ledge and all geared up to take the plunge. I could
not help but question myself if I will be able and
ready to take the leap. I was filled with doubts and
uncertainties. Under the constant encouragement of
CI Teresa and the other HRC instructors, I mustered
up all my courage and took my most important leap.
As I glided down, I screamed my lungs out.
Though the whole descend lasted less than a minute,
it was the longest minute of my life, one that will
forever be etched in my mind. I was relieved and
thankful when I finally felt the familiar ground
underneath my feet again. For once, I really
appreciate the feeling of being grounded.
Unfortunately, due to the bad weather, we
were unable to experience all the high element
obstacles. Though I have not fully overcome my
phobia of heights, I am still proud of myself. I was
glad that I attended the HRC. Overall, it was a
thrilling and exhilarating experience for me.
Finally, I strongly recommend that everyone
experience the Flying Fox, even for fellow
Acrophobia sufferers like me. It will be an
experience that you would neither regret nor forget.
SSG Nur Afifah Husna Bte Azmi
Orchid Park Secondary School – National Police Cadet Corps Bi-Annual Newsletter
Volume 1, June 2007
Page 7 of 13
Conquering My Fear of Heights
I did it!!
NCO CampAfter much anticipation, the annual NCO
Camp is finally here. These 3 days (10~12/03) are
one of my most enriching moments in NPCC with
my unit. It has always been a tradition in my unit
that Sec 3 NCOs-to-be have to undergo a 3-day-2-
night course organised by my unit. This year was no
exception too.
On 10th March, I woke up early that
morning to make my final preparations for the NCO
Camp. On my way to school, my mind was
preoccupied with thoughts about the upcoming
camp. I did not know what to expect for this camp
as we were told that this camp was going to be very
different from the Annual Camp (organised by my
unit for the Sec 1 and 2 cadets) and the ATC that
we had attended previously. My mind was filled
with questions and uncertainties. However, the
thought of passing-out from this course as a NCO
spurred me on. I was determined to complete the
camp and leave as a NCO.
The first day of the camp was a mental
endurance as it was filled with lectures. However,
the CIs conducting the lectures make it enjoyable
and fun. Sensing that we were tensed and uneasy,
they constantly cracked jokes and made the
atmosphere conducive for learning. We had lectures
on uniform etiquette, first aid, method of instruction
(MOI), our unit structure and roles and
responsibilities of a NCO, just to name a few. We
also learnt some life skills to help us carry out our
duties more efficiently and how to plan and conduct
a well-organized lesson and debrief session.
There was something new to learn every
minute, even during our meal times, as we were asked
to do field-cooking. This was not new to us as we had
done it before during Annual Camp and ATC.
However, what was unusual to us was the fact that we
were not given any solid fuel. Instead, we were
provided with coconut fibre, dry twigs and dry leaves.
We were supposed to cook our food using natural
resources. Initially, we had some difficulties but
eventually, we all succeeded. This was an unique
experience for me and my squad-mates, one that we
will never forget.
The second day was a hands-on session. We
were supposed to apply what we had learnt the
previous day; like MOI, which proved to be quite a
feat for some of us. We now understood what our
seniors had to go through to prepare our lessons and
training sessions. A round of applause to them for
doing such a terrific job.
At night, we also had to sentry duties and to
sleep outside our bunks in pairs around the school. It
was meant to build up our courage and confidence.
This, too, was a refreshing experience for us.
Orchid Park Secondary School – National Police Cadet Corps Bi-Annual Newsletter
Volume 1, June 2007
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Finally, on the last day, we had to undergo
numerous tests to assess what we had learnt and our
abilities to carry out our duties effectively. This was
nerve-racking for us as our promotion and future
postings depended on our performance.
To mark the closure of the camp, we had a
passing-out parade. We began the course as
Corporals, but graduated as Sergeants. Hooray! After
the camp, my squad became more closely-knitted and
united. We were ready to meet with any challenge
that comes our way and determined to make everyone
in our unit proud of us. Our passion for NPCC and
our unit was at an all-time high. We will miss this
NCO Camp but it will always have a special place in
our hearts.
SGT Chia Pei Ting
Visit to “Reflections at Bukit Chandu”
On 21 March, we were scheduled to visit
“Reflections at Bukit Chandu”. It is a World War II
interpretative centre to commemorate the Malay
Regiment’s effort in defending Singapore against the
invasion of the Japanese Imperial Army. From 13~14
February 1942, 1,400 Malay soldiers bravely fought
against 13,000 Japanese soldiers at the battle of Pasir
Panjang. It was one of the most gruelling battles in
Singapore during World War II.
Initially, I thought that this visit will be
boring, just like any other trip to a museum, but how
terribly wrong I was. It turned out to be one of the
most interesting and fruitful tour I ever had. The
numerous exhibits, artefacts and presentations
transported us back to World War II. It was as if we
were back in time, fighting along side with the Malay
Regiment.
One of the most intriguing exhibits that I saw
was the “Well of Reflections”. This exhibit is
uniquely and creatively presented. The exhibit is
actually mounted upside-down on the ceiling with a
mirror in a well on the ground directly below it. In
order to view the exhibit, we had to look down the
well at the mirror. As the name implies, it was truly a
“reflection” of the battle at Bukit Chandu. It shows
various scenes of what actually happened at Bukit
Chandu.
Orchid Park Secondary School – National Police Cadet Corps Bi-Annual Newsletter
Volume 1, June 2007
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For instance, it shows how the Malay Regiment soldiers
were tortured after they were captured by the Japanese
soldiers. It really makes us reflect on the battle at Pasir
Panjang.
Another fascinating presentation that we
experienced was the “Sounds of Battle” in the Bukit
Chandu Theatre. When I first stepped in, I noticed that
there were neither exhibits nor screens inside, just
headphone placed at each seat. I thought this would be
uninteresting as there was clearly nothing to see but I was
wrong yet again. When the “show” finally started, we were
able to experience “first-hand” the terrors and horrors of
the battle at Pasir Panjang through Binaural Sound
Presentation. The sound effects and voices were so realistic
that it was as if we were in the middle of the war. It made
me appreciate and treasure the peace that we have now. My
heart really goes out to the victims of war.
The guided tour that we had of “Reflections at
Bukit Chandu” was truly enriching and memorable. It was
an unique experience of a lifetime and it also changed my
view towards visiting such museums again. It was an
invaluable lesson outside the classroom for me. I strongly
recommend every Singaporean to make a trip down to
“Reflections at Bukit Chandu” to experience for
themselves the valour and heroism of our Malay Regiment,
the heroes of Singapore.
SGT Ong Sze Li
Lessons from the Battle at Pasir Panjang
On 21st March, my Sec 3 squad went on a
guided tour to “Reflections at Bukit Chandu” at
Pasir Panjang, as part of our National Heritage
programme organised by my unit.
“Reflections at Bukit Chandu” is an
interpretive centre dedicated to the Malay Regiment
and its contribution to the battle for Singapore. It
depicts vivid accounts of the fearless defence of
Bukit Chandu (also known as Opium Hill) by the
Malay Regiment against the Japanese Army. The
battle of Opium Hill was one of the fiercest battles
that took place in Singapore during World War II.
What struck me the most is the patriotism,
gallantry and excellent leadership qualities of a
Malay Regiment officer, 2nd Lieutenant Adnan Bin
Saidi.
Though heavily outnumbered by the Japanese
soldiers, Lt Adnan led his platoon to provide one of
the most stubborn resistances against the Japanese
intruders. Despite running out of ammunition, Lt
Adnan and his men continued to fight bravely
against the Japanese soldiers. In the end, they chose
death over the dishonour of surrender. This, to me, is
a great demonstration of camaraderie, valour and
“Well of Reflections”
View from inside the “Well of Reflections”
Sculpture of Lt Adnan Uniform of the Malay Regiment
Orchid Park Secondary School – National Police Cadet Corps Bi-Annual Newsletter
Volume 1, June 2007
Page 10 of 13
One story that greatly inspired me is that of
how a Malay Regiment officer cleverly spotted the
Japanese soldiers in disguise. In an attempt to capture
Bukit Chandu, the Japanese soldiers don the Indian
Regiment’s uniform, hoping to catch the Malay
Regiment off-guard. But, the observant Malay
Regiment officer noticed that the “Indian Regiment”
soldiers were marching in 4 ranks (typical that of
Japanese soldiers), instead of their usual 3 ranks.
Also, the way they marched looked very robotic
(which was how Japanese soldiers would march).
Instead of catching the Malay Regiment by surprise,
the Japanese soldiers in disguise suffered heavy
losses.
Another lesson that I learnt from this trip was
how the Japanese soldiers outwitted the British
officers by invading Singapore using bicycles. The
British assumed that the Japanese will attack
Singapore by sea, as the swamps and jungles of
Malaya would deter, if not obstruct, any overland
invasion. This assumption was a grave mistake as it
ignored the highly developed communications
network system that the British themselves had
constructed throughout the peninsula. Also, by using
light bicycles as a mode of transport, the Japanese
Army was able to move swiftly and easily through the
peninsula of Malaya, which prevented the British
from countering their attack. This was the main cause
of the fall of Singapore.
Overall, I find the visit to “Reflections at Bukit
Chandu” very informative and beneficial. I have learnt
valuable lessons on the importance of defending our
homeland, the terrors of war and the makings of a true
leader. Lastly, I would like to salute the Malay Regiment. I
believe in the hearts of all Singaporeans, the soldiers of the
Malay Regiment are the true heroes. They truly lived up to
the Malay Regiment’s motto “Ta'at Setia” (meaning “Loyal
and True”).
SGT Ho Chin Shin Ronald
Orchid Park Secondary School – National Police Cadet Corps Bi-Annual Newsletter
Volume 1, June 2007
Page 11 of 13
Bicycles used by the Japanese Imperial
Army during WWII
Paintings of Scenes from the Battle at Pasir Panjang
Sculpture outside “Reflections at Bukit Chandu”
Past Events of 2007 (January ~ May)Event / Activity Date Participant
CCA Orientation 2007 10/01/07 OPSS NPCC Unit
Area 2 High Rope Challenge 20/01/07 Sec 4 Squad
.22” Revolver Classification Shoot 13/02/07 Sec 3 Squad
NCO Camp 2007 10 ~ 12/03/07 Sec 3 Squad
Guided Tour to “Reflections at Bukit Chandu” 21/03/07 Sec 3 Squad
Speech Day 2007 20/04/07 Sec 2 & 3 Squads
NPCC Annual Parade 2007 21/04/07 Sec 2 & 3 Squads
NPCC Day Parade 2007 17/05/07 OPSS NPCC Unit
Daffodil Day 2007 by Singapore Cancer Society (CIP) 20/05/07 Sec 3 & 4 Squads
Swearing-In Ceremony, Passing-Out Parade & Area 2 Games Day 2007 23/05/07 Sec 1 & 4 Squads
Service Learning at Toa Payoh Senior Citizens’ Health Care Centre 24/05/07 Sec 1 & 2 Squads
Shooting Course by Airsoft Asia Practical Shooting Academy 30/05/07 Sec 2, 3 & 4 Squads
Orchid Park Secondary School – National Police Cadet Corps Bi-Annual Newsletter
Volume 1, June 2007
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Our Achievements for 2007 (January ~ May)Activity / Competition Date / Period Participant Achievement / Award Organizer
Unit Overall Proficiency Award 2006 OPSS NPCC Unit Bronze NPCC HQ
Heritage ‘C’ Race 2007 10/02/07
CPL Trina LimCPL Ridzwan
CPL Yap Si LingLCP Lim Xing Xia
LCP Jolyn Tey
1st Position
National Archives of SingaporeSSG Afifah
SSG PavithraSSG Veronica ChongSSG Toh Zheng Yan
SSG Heng Wang Cong
2nd Position
Triple “R” Competition 2007 10/03/07
LCP Lim Xing XiaLCP Jolyn Tey
LCP Josephine YeoLCP Gavin Ng
Certificate of Participation
East Spring Secondary School
NPCC Unit
E-Poster Competition 2007(Crime Prevention in Schools) 23/03/07
LCP Lim Xing XiaLCP Jolyn TeyLCP Gavin Ng
LCP Wilson Lee
3rd Position(See page 12)
Yishun Secondary School NPCC Unit
SPF-NPCC Award 2007 SSG Quek Yong Jun Recipient NPCC HQ
Area 2 Games Day 23/05/07 Sec 1 Squad 3rd Position Canberra Secondary School NPCC Unit
National Drill Challenge 2007 26/05/07 SI Toh Zheng YanSGT Chia Pei Ting
Certificate of Participation
St Hilda Secondary School NPCC Unit
The award-winning Poster designed and done by LCP Lim Xing Xia, LCP Jolyn Tey, LCP Gavin Ng, LCP Wilson Lee
Orchid Park Secondary School – National Police Cadet Corps Bi-Annual Newsletter
Volume 1, June 2007
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