Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 29

29 Sept 1997 Flashback

Reach Australia coastal area today. The weather was very cold, on first watch, can feel the breeze shivering myself. Didn't do much things today. We'll anchor tomorrow. On forenoon watch, read Reader Digest and found it to be interesting. Feeling "somebody remarks" , really can't do anything about it. Increase my determination to avoid him and "somebody" . During a deck soccer game, fall down and broke the shell key-chain "somebody" gave me. Was saddened a bit by the loss of it. When I feel low, I would look at it, *private thoughts*. Maybe its a bad omen, I don't know. *Private thoughts*. Signoff, Weizhong

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 28

28 Sept 1997 Flashback

Kept 4am to 8am watch. Was tired after my body aches probably due to the workout at the gym last night. "Somebody" surprisingly was the OOW. I didn't speak to him and try to avoid him because of the heartbreaking remark he made yesterday. I think he knew something was wrong with me and try to talk to me. I told myself to be firm and not be soft. Sleep for the whole morning, even forgetting to muster. The "port 3" duties are not settled yet. Chua did mention that he is going to volunteer , makes me feel bad in one way or another because he is the overall I/C , yet he had to be so sacrificeable. "Somebody" tried to be nice to me but I acted as low to his friendliness as I can. I mustn't be soft-hearted, that remark was like a dagger into my heart. Its not that I'm petty, I found out at these sort of situations, I've been unfairly commented or judged. Signoff, Weizhong

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 27

27 Sept 1997 Flashback

Now its only 1.10pm. Actually I always write diary at night, but since its been declared Sunday routine today, I might as well write it now. Half a day gone, one sharp word hurts my feeling. I wake up at 10.15am in the morning as I was on middle watch last night. When I muster at cafeteria, I saw my department was doing ropework like bowlbarnelline & cargo net. I help up in the work which "somebody" make a remark that I was xxxx and another "somebody" added xxxxx.... I was hurt by it inside me though I remained composed on the outside. Whether its a joke or not, I feel they must have this sort of impression. Make me feel ...*private thoughts written half a page* .

Just half a day gone, one bad remark just spoilt the day. The other half, I'll write tonight. I'll try avoid talking to him, this is my decision which I wish I'll be able to achieve, only speak to regarding work, other things I'll try to keep my mouth shut, anyway people didn't notice what you have done.

2nd half

Went to Gym to work out. Peng made sacarstic remarks as he seemed annoyed at my attitude at working out. I knew he did that to spite me to train so I didn't take the remarks too hard. Well, that's all for the day. Signoff, Weizhong

(The below was written on same page after signoff for 27 Sept 1997)

Exactly 2 years ago, I was enlisted for NS, now 4 months to go for ORD. Still remember the trouble-ridden times in my final year in Poly, about a golden opportunity miss of the girl I like, Sxx xxx. The happy times before enlistment at Takashimaya and of course, my first days in the army.

My early Army BMT days before I join the Navy family

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 26

26 Sept 1997 Flashback

Kept afternoon watch. In the morning, was waken up by A OPS'O' at 7.45 - 8.00am to do some simple tasks that can be secured after mustering. In the morning, Buffer said we can go ahead and rest, he seem sick. Good news, "Port 3" will have 4 days of shore leave. But that could nring problem for duty. I really hope for 3 days shore leave with 1 day duty. Been pondering over how it should be planned. The solution could be those who do on "Port 3" will have only 1 duty at "another port". But of course, everyone would want to do at "another port" rather than "port 3". Another solution could be drawing lots but for myself, have always been unlucky one, rather not resort to such games. Later in the night, heard Tan and Wong volunteer to do the "port 3" one and I do think of excusing them the first few days duties back in Singapore to make up for it. Kept middle watch which I feel "somebody" is getting more lazy and a bad attitude. A tired middle watch keeping, as the wind did make me feel unwell. Signoff, Weizhong

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On the shipcrew mention, I think the A Ops O is a new officer onboard. I think we gave him a nickname during that time but will not post here.

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 25 (Bye Bye Honiara)

25 Sept 1997 Flashback

Today at around 9.15am, weigh anchor and leave Honiara, Solomon Islands. I was on anchor watch at time 5.25am to 6.25am. Was tired and did hope the sea watch didn't put me on afternoon watch. Check out and was in first watch, that's mean can sleep for quite a while. Rumours has it we might anchor at "Port 3", what a disappointment if that's true. Really feel my last trip was a disappointing one. Unless I'm guaranteed of 2 full days shore leave. The sea state is pretty bad and many people are feeling sick. I'm ok but feel if I didn't sleep enough, I'll be sea sick too. Ok, really tired just off watch, the sea is rocking badly, time to rest. Signoff, Weizhong

L202 sailing towards the Rainbow bridge on that day of departing Solomon Islands

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Honiara is a place where probably I won't have a chance to visit if it is not for the MSTD trip. My memory of Solomon Islands is that the local people there are very friendly towards us. Everywhere we go, we seem to be centre of attention and greeted with smile and warmth. I vaguely remember there is one teenage girl even wave at us. We just smile back. The cost of things there however, is expensive. I bought a "Nguzu Nguzu" keychain at around S$7-S$9 but it was a special logo of Solomon Islands that I wanted so badly. The keychain was with me for almost 12 years before retiring last year. I forgotten where I kept it since. Other memories include my best meal of the MSTD trip was at the hotel at Honiara. I think its a simple chicken teriyaki meal but it taste so good. Maybe I was really tired during that phase of MSTD trip that I gave such high rating for a simple luxury. I think the Honiara FCEP duty day ranks among the busiest day of my MSTD trip. The body really feel the fatigue and I think I'm not alone. I also have the 1st time experience of swimming in an area where sharks are around. Finally, I remember the midshipman batch has an opportunity to play the Solomon Islands football team. The ship crews are not involved in this game, only the midshipmen. I think I heard Solomon Islands won 9-0 against our young navy officers to be, the midshipmen.

I do read about Solomon Islands news occasionally since that trip. I think near year 2000 or so, there is a civil war that broke out there. Near end 2003, the Oz govt under John Howard send in a peacekeeping force to Solomon Islands to maintain peace. I think the situation isn't as bad as the Ambon one but during that time, the Ozs are also involved in Iraq or Afghan operations, so maybe Solomon Islands involvement may take off some pressure to send more troops to the George Bush crappy ops in Iraq.

Sunset photo at Honiara, Solomon Islands - Photo courtesy of EM Ong

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 24 (Honiara)

24 Sept 1997 Flashback

An extremely busy day for me as I'm on duty and on anchor watch. Even right now, 10.44pm I'm feeling shacked because in another 15 mins time, I'll run the EP again.

A day of tired work, now I just return from the hoisting of EP and since 11pm till now 1.20am, been working non-stop. During the securing of EP, I was left alone by my own department on the EP, when I request for help, they pretend didn't hear my message. Was angry and with help of Kuek and Yam, lowered the straps and after squaring up the place, just walk away from the area. Was vexed up. Today afternoon, read C letter and *private thoughts*. Today LSWT help me to buy the things that I ask him to buy. He got most of the stuffs except the keychain which I wanted badly. He know the design I show him but he didn't buy , instead try to pick another for me. *Private thoughts*. Also today, CO allow us to swim in the sea, it was nice. But most of the day, very busy with EP and didn't have much of our own time. 2nd time so busy during duty. Signoff, Weizhong

Giordano - World of Strangers @ Honiara

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The above is my favourite photo of the MSTD trip. It is taken on EM Goh's camera (green shirt guy on the left most side). Remember he say our photo can be used for Giordano advertisement slogan, "World of Strangers". On EM Goh, he is the electrical guy onboard L202 and same ORD date as me. He may be small size but has a fiery temper, don't step on his toes on a bad day. Heard he work in a big IT firm (Sun) after ORD but actually not very sure because didn't stay in touch after L202 dinner in 98. Think saw someone that looks like him during last year RT @ Khatib camp but didn't talk as wasn't really sure its him and the person also "bo chap".

Back to Honiara, Solomon Islands, I remember the final duty day as a very tiring day because running many rounds of EP, to/fro the ship. Everyone was super tired, that why I got abandoned by my fellow team at night during securing of EP. Was damn pissed & tired on that night.

However, the thing that I have the strongest impression about my trip to Solomon Islands without refering to my sailing diary, also happen on this day. On that Solomon island duty day, the ship was anchored out at sea. During off duty watch period, CO allow us to swim in the sea near our ship. He also swim in it and many of us join him by jumping from the ship into the Solomon island calm sea. It was fun until after we finished the swim, our dear RO Wilfred informed us that this area is actually a SHARKS area. What the...why didn't he tell us before we jump into it. Haha, we all have a good laugh about how naive all of us were at that time, enjoying the swim, not aware of potential danger of sharks.

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 23 (Honiara)

23 Sept 1997 Flashback

Wake up at 6.30am and enter harbour. Prep for the cocktail and all ends at around 10am. Yap, good news, received C and J letter. 2 from C and 1 from J. I only read J and little bit of the first letter from C. I intend to post a letter to C. I went for shore leave with Wee, Yeo, Ang and GY. Hesitate about a few things because I only have limited Soloman dollars cash. Bought a few postcards. "Somebody" didn't seem happy with my slow thinking of getting the stuffs I want. Went to have lunch at a restaurant which the food wasn't nice and costly too. Buy some souvenirs from the souvenir shops including a keychain, a banner and a T-shirt. Also went to post office to post the letters & postcards. Early today, when just went for shoreleave, did call Mum and talk a while with her. Everything ok. Went with a cab to 2 war memorials at Skyline and Auston, a great place to take photos at the village but not really nice. Took same taxi passing through Chinatown. Only few chinese can be seen. Honiara, really not much fun place. Went to a hotel and stay there throughout the evening. Have a nice Japanese teriyaki meal at a restaurant there. My money not enough and GY borrow some to me. At night, visit the casino and went back to ship soon after. Feeling tired as tomorrow got to run anchor watch and FCEP. Signoff, Weizhong

A visit to Honiara City Police station with "mata" in shorts

Scenic photo with our taxi guide and Solomon Islanders

Before there was Resort World Singapore and Marina Bay Sands, there is Honiara Casino

My 13 year old souvenirs from Honiara, Solomon Islands

A written postcards posted in Solomon Islands and to Singapore

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 22 (Honiara)

22 Sept 1997 Flashback

Map of the Solomon Islands

At this moment of writing, I'm finally arrived in Solomon Islands capital, Honiara. I'm quite tired after being a bowman for the past few hours. Our ship reach here at 4pm++, couldn't find a place to berth and therefore drop anchor. Ops 'O' ask me to be part of the EP crew. The duty will run 50% on each day. A lot of funny, frustrating stuffs today, being ticked by Ops 'O' and at the same time bothered by the duty watch system. Was an EP crew and didn't go for late night shore leave. Shore leave starts at around 8pm. Money complications also occur when I shared with Yeo to change $80 and another $20 from the one Wong claim I shared $50 from Ang. Very complex. Hope all these will be sort out tomorrow. I feel myself quite a nusiance to people at times with my outspoken manner. Maybe I should tone down a bit. Tomorrow got to wake up at 6.30am for SSD to enter harbour. Still to prep for cocktail and wait for my only day in Honiara. From people who go for shoreleave today, an expensive place. Argh.....很烦! Signoff, Weizhong

Honiara (highlight in red), the capital of Solomon Islands

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I remember that on our first day arrival in Honiara, no available berth for our ship to alongside (park), so we have to stay far out at sea and drop anchor. We lower the two attached FCEP (stands for Fast Craft for Equipment and Personnel) of our ship to the sea and use it to ferry the shipcrews to land for their late night shore leave. I became part of the FCEP crew by becoming the bowman, who primary role is to handle the ropeworks to secure the craft to the wharf or ship side & set-up ladder for embarking & disembarking of passengers. Other miscellaneous tasks include being a lookout and other manual tasks.

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 21

21 Sept 1997 Flashback

Sunday routine. A lot of people getting sick. Ang & Chua are the latest. For myself, does feel weak, perhaps very lethargic after so many days at sea. Does feel a bit feverish but everything seem ok as I'm writing down. Maybe the change of climate, does feel a bit cold. XO said that he recommend 50% duty watch for each of the 2 days of shore leave at "Port 2". I think if a solution, since we're all entering the harbour late tomorrow, all QMs will close up tomorrow, then 50% on 2nd day and the other half on 3rd day. It will be quite fair if its run this way. Hope such things wouldn't happen in "another port". Slept for a while in the afternoon, kept last dog, attend port presentation, doesn't sound too good. Later watch Crimson tide. Quite a good show, tomorrow morning watch, a bit "siong" as there'll be inspection and wash down deck. Signoff, Weizhong.

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 20

20 Sept 1997 Flashback

2 more days to "Port 2". Its been 99.9% confirmed that we'll reach there at night, at time around 2000 hrs. The 1st day duty watch I suppose will keep their own watch and its just to their advantage. I think it had to be in this way. The sea state getting rougher and this morning, didn't take breakfast and feel a bit unwell. Kept 12pm -4pm watch. *private thoughts*. Tonight on middle watch, tomorrow Sunday , hope can rest peacefully. 20 days has passed so far, it is now the sea getting rougher around sea state 3. Going to keep middle watch later.

Signoff, Weizhong

Singapore time 6.35pm

Present ship time 9.35pm

My L202 sketch on this day

Photo with Yam & Yeo @ Quarterdeck. Ship was rolling

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 19

19 Sept 1997 Flashback

Kept 8am - 12pm watch with "somebody" and diver. Paint the bosun store in the afternoon. Bad news again,, shore leave on "next port" will be 2 days because we can't make it on time. Likely to be one day late. Really disappointed as duty will be affected. The 1st day duty watch will be excused but they may have to pay back in "another port" . "Next port" may not be very attractive but really hope can go for visit the rare "place" which one is unlikely to visit. JRM has a happy hour at 7.30pm today and I only attend a while as I'm on watch at 8pm - 12pm. Heard tomorrow plenty of work to do, really hate it at times , hope for the best. By the way, "somebody" talk a lot with me during watch today. I think our relationship does improve a little but but I'm still keeping distance from him. Now it around 1am, watching MTV alone in JRM. Signoff, Weizhong

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 18

18 Sept 1997 Flashback

Bad day. Kept morning watch, NO seemed to be in foul mood, keep picking on Ang and me. After watch, Buffer said loads of work to be done, he say 9am start work. I was tired and ask him whether can start at 9.15am, he said ok. I went to rest, full asleep and when I opened my eyes, it was 9.25am. A pipe has already been made at 9am++, I didn't hear it. Buffer as I can see was furious as he question me why all the gunners didn't muster. I try to do a bit of work, Wong & Ang didn't come out and when Buffer went down to check, they're sleeping. Oh Gosh! He question me that is it we're taking advantage just because he give us some welfare. Later in the day, Ops 'O' also question me about the pre-sea box for the EP which I didn't prepare. I was devastated by it as everytime its me who got being asked when things goes wrong as if I'm to blame. Help GY to clean arms in the afternoon. A fast one and after that, I was tired and slept. As I woke up, heard EM Ong making remarks on I'm sleeping and my fellow gunners are all suffering on the upper deck. I found out that CO want them to secure storm ropes and a pipe was made at 4pm++. I was deep asleep and nobody wake me up and Tan and Wong were shouting , saying I'm not steady. Ang too, didn't muster as he was also asleep. Tan, then made remark "saying I was very unsteady" as if I was "chao keng". It affected me for the rest of the day. I ponder over this incident, did grumble or try to explain this to "somebody" though I didn't like the man. Kept last dog, thinking about the incident, saw active volcanoes today also. Later, when Tan took over the bridge lookout from me, he raised his voice against me. I was fed-up and raised my voice too, saying I didn't muster because I was asleep & nobody call me or anything. I didn't want to quarrel with anyone on this trip, think whether am I too high profile. Its a long trip, still a long time to work together, quarrel won't do us any good. LKY was also on the bridge when the incident took place. *private thoughts* I was low morale as normal after these sort of incidents. I know I myself is an emotional & sensitive person, just can't stop myself from explaining things that I think people have misunderstood about me. "Wo hen zhi zhuo" but I really wish I can treat all these "yan guang" as nothing, don't explain myself, just live life as it come. Do you think you can do it, Weizhong?

I'm vexed today !!! Signoff, Weizhong

At work on this problematic day. Didn't look bad but it is later part of that day.

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 17

17 Sept 1997 Flashback

Didn't write this page on 17/9/97 but wrote it on the 18th. Kept 1st dog today but change with Gunner Tan for last dog because I want to play JRM vs Lion soccer match. JRM lost 2-1 although we lead 1-0 at half-time, Jeff scoring our only goal. I was responsible for the equaliser as the ball slip through my legs. Disappointed with the result, cause our chances of qualifying must be almost zero. Today, expected to see an active volcano at night, I'm on morning watch and bad news. tonight advance time, at middle watch, try to sleep early but JRM meeting in selecting new committee and new things for the mess took up some time. Signoff, Weizhong

Out at sea with volcanic region & Papua New Guinea in the background

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On the shipcrew mention, Jeff was the most junior RO (Radio operator) onboard L202. Same age as Cook Tan. I didn't rate him as a soccer player until this day where he was the best player in our team, scoring against the midshipman team. I think I remember vaguely, we didn't put in our strongest team for the 1st half but RO Jeff gave us the lead. In the 2nd half, the so-called stronger JRM team conceded 2 goals and a big loss. I underestimated the midshipman team.

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip- Day 16

16 Sept 1997 Flashback

Kept 12pm-4pm watch today. Was sleepy during the watch today. Slept immediately after off watch. On vegetarian meal today as it is 十五 and Mooncake festival. The karaoke final and mooncake festival was also held today, great to have the opportunity to eat mooncake even it is out at sea. The Karaoke competition was won by Cook Tan, second is the diver and third, surprisingly, its buffer. After karaoke, watch TV at JRM. *Private thoughts* Going to middle watch tonight, now its 11pm++. I guess I'll write to C now. Signoff, Weizhong

With L202 crews on Karaoke finals day & Karaoke champion Cook Tan

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On the shipcrew mention, Cook Tan is my good friend onboard L202. He's a young chap with a good fashion sense. He was very quiet when he first joined us onboard and was low morale during sailing due to BGR issue outside. Gave him encouragement and we become good friends. In MSTD, he showed his vocal talent by winning the ship karaoke competition on Mooncake festival day. Remember he like to sing Chen Xiao Dong "Xin You Du Zhong" song around MSTD period.

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 15

15 Sept 1997 Flashback

Kept 4am - 8am watch and in the morning does some paintwork. Was quite tired in the afternoon, lowered the EP. CO causes much rules and procedures involve more complex things like having safety belt for the mids. LKY was also reprimanded for talking in Hokkien. He was fed up with it. The EP didn't run as smoothly as I thought we could. Play deck soccer for JRM vs Mids (Tiger). Won 3-0, RP Quek netting a hat-trick. Kept 8pm - 12pm watch but went up at 10pm as Hon took 2 hours extra for disregarding pipe. Watch the karaoke competition and there were a few surprise finalists like Yam, LSWT and etc....Tomorrow is "Zhong Qiu Jie", heard there are mooncakes for makan. Quite a few days, never write to C , wonder how doing.

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On the shipcrews mention, RP Quek is a regular radarplotter and he came upon L202 later than me though we attended the same basic seamanship course at the same time after our posting from BMT. Quek also come from the same BMT camp (3 BTS) but was from different company.I only know him better via our time in L202. He's a skinny lad who can play football and laugh quite a bit.

LSWT stands for L shipwright. He's the same age as me and we stay in the same crew mess. He's a devoted Christian and looks quiet. If you know him better, he'll open up and show his interesting side. A good guy.

Yam or ME Yam is my favourite L202 soccer teammate. Some call him the Russian tank. He normally plays in defence and makes very powerful clearance. A hard tackler and never gives less than 100% commitment on the football pitch. Aside from football, he's a very friendly, fun loving and sporting chap. He's a Navy regular. Hasn't seen him since I left the Navy.

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 13 & 14

13 Sept 1997 Flashback

Forget to write the diary last night, writing on 14 Sept 97 and time is 4pm. Yesterday, middle watch advance time 1 hour and I close up only 3 hours. Saturday routine, but I feel lethargic, head a bit heavy. A simple day where I kept 12-4pm watch followed by middle watch. The Karaoke competition is going to be held but I'm not participating because I don't think I can sing well with a microphone and moreover, don't want to malu myself. Tomorrow is the "crossing Equator". I don't think I'll be involved as I'm on middle watch. Signoff, Weizhong

14 Sept 1997 Flashback

Crossing the Equator start this morning where I'm still in bed. Did went up to take a look when I went to search for breakfast. After that, went to sleep again and the ship do rock a bit. Didn't really want to get involved in the equator crossing as I feel tired and also don't want to end up cleaning all the mess. At 12pm, all gunners will muster at the Q-deck where LKY give us a lecture off or scolding for not helping out in the wash down deck. He said a pipe was made for all gunners to muster at the fox'cle. *private thoughts* I feel since we're not involved in the ceremony, I didn't go up as I was tired or didn't want to do extra work. He seemed angry and who knows what might happen tomorrow. Kept 6-8pm watch. Tonight the Karaoke competition start off, quite a number of crews join the competition. Going to keep 4am - 8am watch and now almost 11pm. I think when my hair dry and I'll sleep. Signoff, Weizhong

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On the mention "Crossing the Equator" ceremony, all Singapore Navy sailors who have sailed past the so called equator will definitely go through this initiation ceremony by those who have went through.

Technically speaking, it was an old viking tradition. This ceremony has its roots in an old tradition from the age of the Vikings, who believed that King Neptune’s kingdom lie just beneath the equator. Sailors believed that the ceremony would appease King Neptune and ensure them a safe voyage as they crossed the equator.

On the Singapore Navy context based on my experience, I didn't really find "crossing equator" ceremony has anything to do with safe voyage wishes. Rather, its a "have fun at other expenses" day where those who haven't cross the equator before will have to clear few stations of obstacles. It like the mud games in those NPCC day where you expect to get dirty on your clothes, body and beautiful face. It was a lot of fun for those have been through it but not for those who are going through it. Special costumes are worn on this day, pending on whatever creativity one have.

I did my Equator crossing on Jan 1997 when I cross the equator for the first time to Palembang, Indonesia. I don't recall much details except that putting my face into one rubber dinghy full of coloured water. I was then given a certificate to prove that I have crossed the equator successfully.

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 12 (Bye Bye Ambon)

12 Sept 1997 Flashback:

At Ambon harbour with 2SG Nantha, attached Naval Diver. I first get to know him during my OJT phase attachment at Patrol Craft RSS Sovereignty where Nantha was the ship Naval gunner. He decided to become a Naval diver later and was attached to our ship for MSTD 97.

The SSD party @ Quarterdeck after slipoff from Ambon

This morning, ship sail at 10am and bye to Ambon which is not a nice port, hardly any good stuffs to buy or see any beautiful girls. After SSD, its Sunday routine and I slept for 2 hours before waking up to play soccer. Kept 8pm - 12am watch and the watch was planned by LKY. At the bridge, disturb Wee and he looks angry. Anyway, didn't intend to disturb him too much since he is angry. Tomorrow, hopefully is Saturday routine but I'm on 12pm - 4pm, so not much of a difference. Sea state a bit rocky after sailing off. I'm now waiting for my hair to dry before sleeping. Signoff, Weizhong

Some notes that I scribble at the end of my diary writing for that day. I remember before MSTD sailing on 1st Sep 1997, I went with KCP on the weekend to Peninsula Plaza to buy a camera. We're having food at fast food restaurant (BK) when I saw the girl that I had a crush on during Poly. We didn't see face to face and soon I lost sight of her. Happy to see her then, last saw her during BMT in 95 when she visiting her other friends. I bought my 1st ever camera on that weekend, the Pentax ESPIO 140 film camera @ S$400 from a Peninsula Plaza shop. It is the 2nd most expensive item that I have ever bought at that stage of my life. I bought it for the MSTD trip. I'm grateful for it as it went on to serve me for almost 8 years. Now the internal motor is not working well and it has since retired. Still keep it as an antique.

My S$400 investment for the 97 MSTD Trip

Pentax ESPIO 140 Film Camera from Peninsular Plaza Shop

My best shooting weapon for MSTD 97 & many other events


Buttons & functions on Pentax ESPIO 140 .
There's also a wireless remote control function for this camera



The Real Time Clock is still working in 2010
Still have a roll of film in it but Pentax ESPIO 140 has since retired after almost 8 years of excellent service

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 11 (Ambon)

11 Sept 1997 Flashback

I wrote this page on 12/9/97 at 5.00pm as I was too 'shag' to write. Yesterday, my last day at Ambon. Didn't buy anything except for a "Maluku" T-shirt. Also mail the letters for C and J at a local post office. Went to a place called "Pintu Kota" with many of the ship guys and we took many photos there. The scenery of the cave and cliff & seaside was beautiful. Oops, another shipcrew got charged today as he was caught smoking by XO in the heads. He seem to be in low spirit. Have dinner at a restaurant at Matahari, see look for a while and went back to ship. A bit hesitant about the Liverpool T-shirt which I want to buy for YQ but in the end, didn't buy. Maybe I'll get it in ????????. At night, watch MTV and feeling really tired and that's why fall asleep without writing the diary. Yap, Ambon was over, next "Port 2". Signoff, Weizhong

The 500 Rupiah ticket to Pintu Kota, Ambon

LSWT, RP Chua, CPL Tey & ME OJT Yeo @ Pintu Kota, Ambon

Entrance to a small cave @ Pintu Kota

(L-R) Gunner Ang, RP Wee, CPL Tey & the Taxi-driver who took us there

Up the cliff with ME Goh Min Sern

Last day of shore leave @ Ambon was spent in this place, taking photos & admiring the view

Pintu Kota, Ambon - A beautiful place of Rocks

Photo shots @ Pintu Kota with CPL Tey & ME Yong

What are these L202 crews doing at this corner?

Looking down & observing nature @ work on the rocks of Pintu Kota

L202 crews Team photo @ Pintu Kota, Ambon
Backrow (L-R): RP Chua, Gunner Tey, ME Goh MS, Gunner Ang

Frontrow (L-R): L Shipwright, Cook Chan, ME OJT Yeo, our Ambon taxi guide

Bought an Ambon T-shirt in 1997 MSTD Trip

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So we spend 3 days in Ambon, the first port of call during 97 MSTD sailing trip. I remember Ambon as a relatively quiet sea town or village. We don't feel unsafe walking on the street at night when going back to the ship. The memorable portion of my Ambon trip is definitely the joint patrol to the rocky maze place. In addition, I also recall witnessing some strange procession on their street where groups of people dressed in civilian clothes were marching together in a weird manner. They march in a NPCC way but the strange thing is they do it in slow motion & weird raising of hands. I think I saw both man and woman in the marching squad. We didn't just saw one group behaving like this, we saw a few other groups in the time spent in their town. Aside from that, it seems a very peaceful island. The indonesians that live on Ambon are darker in colour & complexion compare to the normal indonesians that I seen in my earlier trip to Palembang.

So Ambon was a peaceful sea town of Indonesia in 1997 when L202 was there but it didn't stay that way. I was shocked to hear in 1999 after the end of the Suharto reign, violent clashes broke up in Ambon between Muslims and Christian indonesians that reside on the island. Read that the deadly clashes resulted from a local small incident, a fight or quarrel between a taxi driver and a Muslim Ambonese. Details of the Ambon civil war available on this weblink: http://www.fica.org/hr/ambon/enAmbonCivilWar.html

The violence escalated and many people died and many more flee Ambon to other Indonesian islands. Ambon has been known as a Christian-pocket region in Indonesia, the Muslims in Ambon had been living in peace and harmony with the Christians. But 1999, all hell broke loose. That went on for a few years and I read that the situation has improved.

I hope the peace has return for good and will continue in Ambon, like the place that we visited back in 1997 where happy school children visited our ship and looks so happy and carefree.

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 10 (Ambon)

10 Sept 1997 Flashback

Today was my duty day at Ambon. Close up 1st detail. Had a fairly busy morning as the open house commenced at 9am. We expect 50 school children to visit and in the end, more than 100 visited our ship. Show them the A-Gun, 0.5. Also show them the bridge. Finished writing letters for C and J, likely to post them tomorrow. Volunteered for shore patrol at night. Didn't sleep the whole day despite on the ship. In the evening, lifted up the AC ladder. I also tied up the guardrails there. GY was extremely nervous and it do irritates me as I raised my voice a little. I knew I was in the wrong but I just couldn't control my frustration there. He seem to be panicking or doing things too straight. I ask him to help me keep my football magazine because CO was at the brow. He put my magazine on the chair. This annoy me and in the end, CO stared at me when I try to get the magazine to the shore patrol. I went for shore patrol with Pang at 10pm to 12am++. The places that they took us were like slums, consisting of red light district and boxing places. Its interesting to visit the place and do patrol but the conditions there are really congested and smell of bad air there. When I'm back, "somebody" was a bit drunk and began talking nonsense, I ignore him. I was tired and slept for 1 hour plus. I'm 20 minutes late for closeup, Ang seem unhappy (understandably) but he didn't say out. Now its 3.10am and I'm still the QM. Signoff, Weizhong

Doing duty as a QM @ Ambon and took a photo during break

-------------------------------------------------------------On the shipcrew mention, Pang TP was the tech-hand/ME on board the ship. I think he served onboard L202 during OJT phase before becoming a full pledged crew. A fun loving guy.

Ang is the NSF gunner, who is the batchboy of Gunner Wong and joined L202 much later than me. He's a A level graduate with the typical boy next door looks who will be entering Singapore University after his NS stint. Remember he supports Liverpool and play football.

Till this day, I still remember about that joint shore patrol with the Ambon Indonesian police. ME Pang and myself volunteered for this task during our rest hours. Wearing our white Navy No. 3 uniform, we set off in the Indonesian police vehicle, not knowing exactly where will we be patrolling. The Indonesian policeman that was taking care of us was a very tall & muscular guy, which make us looks really unlike soldiers. Haha. The 1st stop was a boxing ring premise but there are nobody competing in the ring. Next, was a remote poorly lit area of a row of houses. The Indonesian policeman were talking to one of the girls at the house. The policeman turned and told us that the girl say we're very handsome. We just smiled and keep quiet.

After completing the round in this area, I think they took us to a nearby disco where we enter it in our uniform. Oh man, this is first time in our service that we did a patrol like this. Inside a disco, all of us went towards a table where the policemen greeted their colleague who dressed in civilian clothes. I can't remember or understand if who is he but guess it should be their police leader or supervisor. We're introduced to him and shake hands with him. After a short while in this disco, we left and continue our patrol to the next area.

The next area is the highlight of my Ambon trip. I find the place strange or unique as it is mainly made up of rocks and many passageways & stair steps that make it looks like a maze. Though late hours, there are quite a few people hanging around this area compare to other parts of Ambon that we seen earlier. There are also karoake shops in this rocky maze.The public eyes were not on the Indonesian police but on the two white uniform guys which is Pang and myself. We felt really weird and uncomfortable with the attention given. Just stick closely with the Indonesian policemen. We made our way up a staircase and to a corridor passageway with many rooms. The Indonesian policemen begin knocking on the doors and questioning the people who open the door. I didn't understand what are they talking about.

Next, the policeman ask me to proceed to start knocking on another room straight ahead. So, I go and knock, knock. A lady open the door and I let the policeman talk to her. In one of the other room that was open by the policeman, I actually saw one old man with two women inside on the bed. I saw many other sights in other rooms that I could not recall now. I realise this area may have been the red light district of Ambon. Its a messy place and I would have got lost in this maze if not for the local policemen. The place doesn't smell good but this is really unique patrol experience that I have in Ambon. It was an eye opener to another part of the world & their way of living.

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 9 (Arrival in Ambon, Indonesia)

9th Sept 1997 Flashback

The day I reach Ambon, my 1st MSTD port. Kept morning watch, during my watch at 7am, saw a swarm of dolphins diving around our ship. Its look beautiful. I'm on watch, otherwise I would bring my camera, take a picture of these beautiful sea creatures. We enter the harbour at 9am. The place looks remote, like a village. There is one Matahari shopping centre. We had our shore leave at 2pm onwards after finishing all the preparations for the cocktail. I leave at the 2nd liberty at 3pm. The place doesn't look nice as the market looks dirty and smell horrible. I bought a Juventus T-shirt at Matahari, had a meal at KFC, call home but nobody at home. Call "san kim" and inform her everything is smooth. The place looks boring, congested and though there is karoake, it doesn't look attractive. I went out with a group of shipcrews including Hon, Ang, Yeo, Wilfred, Jerry, KCP, SK Tan and etc....We went back to ship around 10pm. I think I will post my letter to my friend on the 3rd day as CET know where to post letter. "Sian", tomorrow still got to attend colours. Signoff, Weizhong . 12.20am

Day One shoreleave @ Ambon Convenience store

Day 1 shore leave @ Ambon. L202 crews with Ambon fire engine in the town area.

Day One Shoreleave with the Ambon sea vessels

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 8

8th Sept 1997 Flashback

Kept 12-4pm watch today. Today was quite busy as we will be entering Ambon harbour tomorrow. The duty watch was planned today and I'm on the 2nd day duty in this port. Hopefully for 2nd or 3rd day, a miracle happen and the open house won't need as many people as the original plan. One of my Kakis was charged for smoking. Sigh, "mei you ren qing wei zhe xie officers". At night, a port presentation was given and it seem the port is not nice. Now its 11pm, feel sleepy but still want to write to my friend. Help out Ops 'O' and GY at night, still Ops 'O' say I not steady. They have no watches while I still have 1 morning watch next day. Going to be shag. Signoff, Weizhong 11.05pm

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On the shipcrew mention, GY is Gunnery Yeoman. My first GY is LKM but he did not sail for this trip as he's due to ORD and clearing leave. He's very handsome. The GY that sail for the MSTD trip is our new GY though we already spend some time working together onboard prior to this trip. He's a nice guy but sometimes blur as he's new to the ship. I think he came from MGB (Missile Gun Boat) ship.

Ops 'O' is the officer in charge of our seaman dept and has been around since Buffer Yong's time though he's not the first Ops 'O' that I have during my stint. We got along well during that time. He's a workaholic & the rare officer that would get his hands dirty together with the seaman. MSTD period was challenging due to change of dynasty in our dept and somehow I feel he's different from the past person that I knew. Today, I still remember him as a good officer.

On Ambon, it is our very first port of call during the 2 months MSTD trip. Ambon is part of the Maluku Islands, popularly known also as the Spice islands located in the Indonesian archipelago.

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 7

7th Sept 1997 Flashback

Wake up at 7.45am and feel lethargic. Kept forenoon watch from 8am to 12pm. Discuss with LKY on the shore leave and also that 50% of the crew need to stay back for the open house. During watch-keeping, everyone seem afraid to make piping because a mistake would result in extra 2 hours of watch-keeping. Also all the QMs were briefed by buffer on the QM duties. Also ask XO whether the requirement for 50% of the crew to stay back is necessary. The answer is likely yes. Got to change the arrangement of the duty. I will try to think of a good way. Actually this page is written on the 8th Sept as yesterday night, I was too tired and sleepy. Sign off, Weizhong.

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 6

6th Sept 1997 Flashback

Kept watch from 4am to 8am. Was tired but luckily the watch has LKY. He allows us to sleep for an hour after mustering. Today was Saturday and actually LKY has said we can have the routine but at 2.30pm, a pipe on "All Seamen, Quarterdeck, All Seamen" was made. Its Ops O asking us to do work. All of us feel let down as it is Saturday. I feel Ops O is different from the one that we used to know in the past....<*private thoughts*>.

Today, a wrong pipe or disregard pipe result in "somebody" watch keeping an extra 2 hrs watch. I kept 8pm - 12am watch. After watch while bathing, XO walk through our messes and 4 of the shipcrews were caught gambling. This fellow really something, making life difficult for us.

Also heard shore leave at *Port of Call 1* and "Port of Call 2" will require 50% of crew to be onboard. Very bad news, that means QM may only go for 1 day shore leave. Sign off, Weizhong

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On the shipcrew mention, LKY was the veteran seaman, in his 2nd stint with RSS Excellence. He has served onboard L202 long before I joined but left to work in the civilian world after completing his first contract. I only get to know him upon his return to the ship in 2007 as a PO.

Remember him as an eloquent speaker, a street smart guy who can bridge between the ship officers and the men that work onboard. He's highly experienced and many of us look up to him when dealing with seaman tasks. His positive aspect is that he know what stuffs (eg. welfare) motivate the men while able to get work done to satisfy the increasing demands of the officers. I think he also focus on important tasks than "showcase" tasks. This prevent unnecessary extra work and reduce burden on the team. He like to joke as well. Remember during MSTD, he keep telling us that the longer we sail, the more and more the attached female crew (average looking) onboard look like HK actress Chung Chu Hong.

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 5

5 Sep 1997 Flashback

Woke up at 10:15am as I kept middle watch last night. Bring the paint to the EP for painting in the afternoon. Kept afternoon watch (12pm - 4pm). After that, play deck soccer. Lost 1-0 to the CPOs though we didn't play at full strength. LKY ask me to hand over AGY to Gunner Tan. Actually I told him I wanted to hand over to Gunner Yeo but he say the buffer didn't want him to take over and that Yeo & Wong can only be his Paintstore and Bosun storeman respectively. I was glad I finally can be without appointment and one less responsibility as I'm due to ORD soon after the MSTD trip. But I think there is going to be some time on proper handing over. At night, domestic rounds as usual, the complaint this time is the upper ceiling dirty and bulbs blurred things. Really frustrating to have such fussy officers who kept demanding this and that. After rounds, do PMs and thinking what to write to my overseas friend. Going to keep morning watch tomorrow, must I sleep now? Its 11.30pm. I'm in the JRM writing this. Today passes fast. Sign off, Weizhong.

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On the shipcrew mention, Gunner CPL Tan is the newest gunner onboard the ship. He is a regular and looks very fit but didn't really play football if I remember correctly. I think he went on later in his navy career to join the SOF.

Gunner Wong is also a Navy regular gunner. He's a tall and relax guy. I remember our ex buffer Yong try to train him via the hard approach during his early days onboard.

Gunner 3SG Yeo is my good friend onboard L202. He used to be NSA (naval supply) onboard our ship taking care of the ship logistics for a good year or so. I think he wanted to do more challenging stuffs, that's why he requested to be converted into a naval gunner. But I think I remember his ultimate aim is not to be naval gunner, he wanted more exciting stuffs such as become SOF or some elite forces. NSA Yeo also have some strange habit, I remember he ask me to buy him deep fried grasshoppers during our Pattaya sailing earlier that year. He wanted to eat grasshoppers, unique tastebud. He's also into motorbikes. A very helpful chap. He stay in the next cabin mess next to mine and I think he sleep below one of the most funny guy onboard, Tiger. Tiger never shower whenever the ship goes sailing, no matter how long. Luckily, Tiger did not sail for this 2 months trip as he secure an early release to pursue further studies.

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 4

4th Sept 1997 Flashback

Today was Sunday routine, so ship company muster at 10:15am. Actually on afternoon watch (12pm -4pm) but the planning was changed by the buffer and I was on middle watch tonight. Spent the day watching TV, playing UNO with my ship crews. Also help to clean the armoury. Have a little bit of say with RP Chua on the planning of the harbour duty. I think I'm in Bravo watch with Gunner Ang and maybe RP Quek. Open my (overseas) friend's parcel today and discover the 2 comic books were children's one if I'm not wrong. Quite a relaxed day. Hope can have more of such routine. Ops, I'm late for the middle watch. Sign off, Weizhong. 4th Sept 1997

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On the shipcrew mention, RP Chua is a Navy regular Radarplotter and stay in the same cabin mess as me. He's a tall muscular fellow who primary interest is in the financial market and he's only 21 years old back then. Remember that he always have a copy of finance newspaper with him every morning when he came to the ship. I could have been living together with a financial guru but I wasn't interested in stocks or financial stuffs back then (or even now). Before we sail for MSTD, as LRP did not sail for this MSTD trip, he handed the planning of the overseas QM guard duties to RP Chua and me, who surprisingly has become the most senior QM onboard. The most senior gunner did not sail for this trip back then. RP Chua is a gentleman, was glad that he will be planning the duties. Didn't see RP Chua since the L202 reunion dinner in 1998. My guess is he could be in the financial industry, making shrewd investments and making big $$$.

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip - Day 3

3rd Sept 1997 Flashback

Kept morning watch from 4am to 8am together with "somebody" and Wong. Didn't want to sit beside that "somebody" , so do lookout. The watch was ok as there are midshipman there. Afternoon, do things in armoury. Then kept last dog watch and didn't stand for rounds today, avoiding that "??" rounds. In the end, one part of my area was unsatisfactory, LCP Hon told me that XO want it to be done tomorrow. The armoury in the future, need someone to stand for rounds. Too bad, things getting more complex. My frustrations took the better of me as I kept grumbling. I think I should cut down on this.

That "somebody" also in front of the officers at night, made comments of me wearing slippers and shit him, "lian zhi ji ren ye yao sabo", somemore I was at quarterdecks only for 2 minutes. He is really a "koko b ware" man. I use many types of these sort of languages, I didn't want actually but frustration just took control of me. Tomorrow is Sunday routine, therefore I sleep late today, watching TV. Think hardwriting was bad, should improve. Signoff, Weizhong. - 3rd Sept 97

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On the shipcrew mention, LCP Hon was my fellow NSF gunner who will soon ORD after the MSTD trip. His ORD date is earlier than many of us though he joined the ship later than us. His fellow batchboy didn't join us for this sailing. Lucky us. Hon likes to ride a tiny motorbike "xiao mian yang". LKY always like to joke with him about tying a rope to his bike and giving it a dip into the sea. LCP Hon is very easygoing person and is intelligent with seaman tasks. Nice chap to have onboard.

On the "keeping watch" term, this is about the work or duty that we perform during sailing. My role during sailing is either that of a helmsman or a lookout. The helmsman assist in steering the ship towards the right course given by the officer of the watch while the lookout uses a bino to keep a look out for any nearby vessels or potential dangers.

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip Day 2

2nd Sept 1997 Flashback :

Today was "Chu Yi" but I forget that it is. Chief ET told me just last night, yet I forget it. Woke up at 7.45am and kept forenoon watch (8am - 12 noon). In the afternoon, kept the ropes and change new ones. Was a bit tired after that. Evening time was a frustrating time mainly because of 2 incidents.

First, after I knew it is "Chu Yi", I try to have a vegetarian meal. I bring my vegetarian instant noodles to the galley and ask Cook Peng to pass me a bowl to cook it. There is no more china bowl, so he pass me a glass pan. Chief Cook who was in a foul mood, vented his frustration on me by shouting at me, saying that cannot be used. Though I was angry also for being shouted at unfairly, I kept mum, didn't want to create any unnecessary quarrels. Anyway, "bu xiang ge lao ren jia zhen chao" (don't want to quarrel with old folks).

Next incident, during rounds, the new XO kept his usual "make a mountain out of a molehill" pattern, saying my area wasn't ready for his rounds. I really try to clean the area and another area which is not really mine. Another old folk, the attached Coxswain also kept shining his torchlight at some areas , add salt and vinegar. Wow, already long time never kena such treatment. I made a careless mistake by requesting for another helper. That Coxswain stared at me , perhaps feeling I'm trying to be funny. I don't think I'm. Anyway, a rerounds was to be done but later they cancelled it. Now 11.10pm, thinking to rest or to watch TV. Tomorrow early morning watch very "sian". Also, I feel today quite problematic, should try to keep low key for the rest of the trip, otherwise trouble will trouble me. Am I right?

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The above was what I encounter during the 2nd day of my MSTD trip. Doesn't sound good. On the ship crew mention, Cook Peng was many people (including me) favourite chef onboard L202. Whenever do guard duty with him, always get to enjoy some special dishes other than the usual SAF style of food. He's also like to work out in the ship gym and given me some tips during the MSTD trip on how to pump iron. I'm not a good student though.

We have a new XO at that time and maybe "Xin guan shang ren san ba huo" style. The previous XO also have his own style of managing the shipcrews and I wasn't used to his words when I just came onboard but got used to it eventually. In fact, we got on quite well after playing together in the ship football matches. I remember he gave me encouragement on the pitch during our football game in Palembang, Indonesia in Jan 1997. Don't think the new XO is interested in football.

Yesterday Once More: 1997 Navy MSTD Trip

Its thirteen years since that memorable Navy sailing trip. Still have lots of fond memories about it. Decided to do a flashback on my facebook account and my blog too. It all begins with a Singapore Navy Landing Ship Tank called RSS Excellence, L202. I was posted to this excellent old WWII hospital ship back in July 1996 after completing my training at the Naval training school. Only 3 of us out of a class of approximately 30 trainees were posted to Landing Ship Tank. Many batchboys laughed at us because the Landing Ship Tank is the biggest ship in the Navy and as gunners, we need to maintain the ship. So many percieved we got the biggest area to maintain with daily chipping & painting from one end of the ship to the other, whole year long. They all thought we're going to have difficult life for the rest of our NS stint. My batchboys Ravi and Tok were posted to L203 (RSS Intrepid) and I was all alone posted to L202 (RSS Excellence).

On the first day that I reported to RSS Excellence, the majority of the shipcrews were on off day as the ship has just returned from a sailing trip. I met the Ops Officer LT Rayson Lim and he introduce to the Quartermaster on duty LRP. LRP explained that for new birds to the ship, its a standard protocol to do duty straightaway for three consecutive days with no duty-off. Ops, I had an advanced driving theory test on next evening. So I did my first understudy QM with LRP for my first day. The next morning, Ops Officer Rayson introduce me to my new boss, Buffer Yong. As a new lad & from previous OJT experience, I've prepared myself mentally to expect a tough first few weeks. I spoken to Buffer Yong about the driving theory test and to my surprise, my new boss allow me to go home on duty off to prepare for the exam without second question ask. It was a good start. I think LRP wasn't too impressed with the decision.

That was how I begin life in RSS Excellence. Now will move to the memorable MSTD trip in Sep 1997.

‎1st Sept 1997 Flashback: At Tuas Naval Base onboard RSS Excellence L202, I was doing pre-sailing check on small arms at the Commanding Officer cabin when CO pop me a surprise question about how I feel about Princess Diana demise? She has died in a carcrash the day earlier on 31 Aug 97. I replied that I was sad to hear her tragic news and that she seem to lead a difficult love life and couldn't be with the one that she loved. Evening approach, Special Sea Dutyman & berthing party closed up. I was at the quarterdeck and Pte CC Leo send us off by slipping off the stern ropes. Off we goes for 2 months MSTD sailing trip. Day 1 of MSTD 97.

The above details are roughly what I remember. I also made an effort tonight to find my old MSTD diary notebook which captures minor details of the experience. Here's what was written about 1st Sept 1997 (1.20am, 2nd Sept 97) onboard L202:

1st Sept 1997

Today was a busyday for me as I really panicked with the things to bring for the trip. Early morning, have breakfast with Mum and Weifang, went to buy films, sour plums,etc till 12pm noon. Began to panic as I was packing my stuffs. So many things to bring and some unnecessary ones like videotapes, magazines and extra clothings. Mum seem to be quite sad that I was leaving home for 2 months and she specially cook one of my favourite dish and even offer to give me money to take cab. Auntie also ask me to buy some Polo T from Indonesia for her. Really quite vexed by the stuffs to bring and in the end, ended with 2 super big bags and struggled to the MRT to meet Chan and KCP to take cab to the ship. Change my currency at Northpoint and also lend $200 to KCP. Hope he will not become another "somebody" . I think he will return me. Mum and Auntie actually wanted to send me off at the harbour but from what I heard from Leo, I told them they couldn't as I didn't submit their names. There are many people sending off the midshipmen and my ship slip off at 7.30pm. San Hoe also came today, nice to see him again. Kept 8-12 watch today with Low Kin Yuen. Call Dad to tell him everything is fine here. But forget to tell him to ask sister to tape the TCS prize presentation ceremony and also forget to bring my electrical notes. Ok, now its 1.20am, time to rest.