This One's for All of Us
By Sufyan Khan (22S55) and Ng Celeste (22S62)
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Photo by VJCPS
For the first time since 2018, the combined cohorts of Cedar Girls’ Secondary School (CGSS), Victoria School (VS), and Victoria Junior College (VJC) assembled in VJC’s field to commemorate National Day. With the relaxation of Safe Management Measures (SMMs), over 5000 students in the Victoria-Cedar Alliance (VCA) gathered together to celebrate Singapore’s independence.
Early in the morning, students clustered together under the hot sun to create the “VCA [Heart] SG” formation, the first of many activities for the day. Per tradition, the celebrations began with the marching of a contingent of students from all three schools. Moving in sync, the combined contingent marched onto the track, stopping to for the flag raising ceremony.
Photo by VJCPS
Photo by Berita Harian
Behind the seamless display were days of training and many hours of commitment. “Before, a lot of us were super nervous because we had some stuff not perfected yet, and we had to make some last minute adjustments for flag holders to adapt to,” said Enzo Ho (22S31), a member of the contingent. “But afterwards when viewing the clips we were genuinely surprised that it was quite clean and we got it right. I’m proud of everyone and happy that it's over.” Their efforts certainly did not go unrecognised, as the flag party and contingent were prominently featured on the local newspaper, Berita Harian, later that day.
Following that was a speech by our principal Mr Jeffrey Low. Echoing this year’s National Day message, he spoke of Singapore’s struggle with COVID-19 and the unity we exhibited in overcoming related challenges. With escalating costs of living and global economic uncertainty, it is imperative that we continue to foster a strong sense of community and national pride to weather whatever lies ahead. Citing the tumultuous state of current global affairs, he emphasised the importance of staying united in the face of adversity.
With all the formalities out of the way, the much-anticipated concert segment began. The first performance item for the day was by our very own Dance Club. Having practised for weeks prior, they had prepared a piece specifically for this National Day celebration. Dancing to the tune of a hip-hop remix, their intricate choreography interwoven expertly with the music enraptured the audience. Ending with a dance choreographed to this year’s National Day song, “Stronger Together”, the dancers ended their performance to the sound of applause from an audience of over 5000 students.
Photo by VJCPS
Photo by VJCPS
Next was a performance by VS Boys Brigade’s award-winning military band. Playing a rendition of “Count On Me, Singapore” on bagpipes and drums, their spirited expression gave life to their truly unique take on a classic National Day song. Their charming music touched thehearts of all who were present.
Photo by VJCPS
Following the band was the Cedar NCC’s Freestyle unit with a performance that garnered rapturous applause from the Cedar Girls’ section of the field. The uniformed cadets moved energetically with astounding precision and synchronicity. The sounds of their boots on the stage floor melded together into distinct beats as they marched to the beat, while the splashes of colour on their gloves mesmerised the audience.
Photo by VJCPS
After their stunning performance came a deluge of National Day songs performed by the three of them, along with Cedar Girls’ choir. From the slow melody of “The Road Ahead” to fast-paced beats of “Stronger Together” to the emotional chords of “Home”, the field filled with thousands of voices singing enthusiastically along. Home, in particular, seemed to be a fan favourite as the crowd linked arms and swayed along to the music.
To end off the morning’s celebrations, the Cheer-in-Charges (ICs) from each school took to the stage to galvanise the crowd into action with their unbridled energy. We shouted jubilantly to end the day off with a bang.
Of course, we must also remember those in administration who worked hard to make this event possible. “I think the combination of the two events... where we come together as a nation to commemorate National Day and the difficult circumstances that Singapore was formed under and how we have managed to succeed in spite of that…” said Mr Jeffrey Low, commenting on the combination of the National Day and VCA’s 10th Anniversary celebrations. “This coming together of the schools is something we feel we also want to commemorate together with National Day,”
Ultimately, this year’s National Day celebration was a reminder of how far we have come as a nation. “I like how everyone could come together to express our pride as Singaporeans. When we were all singing the National Anthem in the heart or banding together to sing Home at the end, it really warmed my heart, you know,” said Wee Hong Hua (22S55), “It makes me feel very grateful for Singapore. I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. I’m reminded of our safety, strong community spirit, and decent government. Sure, there’s some flaws, but at least we’re at peace and prospering and there’s people around us to help and protect us,”
As the A-levels and Promotional Examinations drew nearer, these mass celebrations were reminders that our time here does not solely revolve around studies, stress, and responsibilities. Sometimes, we can just relax, let loose, and enjoy ourselves. Sure, our academic (and other) commitments are an integral aspect of our lives, but looking back from the future, it’s these memories that we make with our friends which we’ll look back on fondly.
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