Posted on 08-Sep-2014
It seems like only yesterday I joined the 12th Kuala Lumpur Boys’ Brigade, when I was shorter than I am right now, probably looked like a midget, but will never admit it, because I would use 
to beat the crap out of those who called me a midget when I was in my previous school, before joining WMSKL. Either way, my journey began on 3rd of January, 2013, when I got to know that one - The Boys’ Brigade exists, two - it is even older than Scouts, three - my life was about to take a major twist.
I started out as a Recruit back in Form 1 where BB was made compulsory for all Form 1 boys. I still recall that day I was, practically blur - I did not know what was going on or what we are doing Praise and Worship for, or go Drilling for what purpose, etc. Only God knows what on earth I am doing with my life, I supposed. Either ways, I was like a boat set adrift; drifting and drifting and drifting without direction at all.
It all changed during my very first Enrolment day at 12th KL held last year. All Members from 12th KL Boys’ Brigade were clad in their full Ceremonial uniform, ready to receive our awards or promotions. We were all very excited. I had gotten the greatest surprise of my life. I had gotten 5 new badges in a row. Proud as I was then, I was not the only one who was surprised.
The second half of the year 2013 flown by without many events, I thought to myself. Wait, except for the Joint In-House Boys’ Brigade and Girls’ Brigade Camp which was held from 12 – 13 July; by far the most popular event held in 12th KL for the year 2013. The year 2013 ended with another event – the First Aid and Kayaking Expedition. All in, there were 13 of us accompanied by 3 Officers who took part in this course held in Outbac Broga and Pulau Pejudi. As I recall now, it was tiring to kayak for almost 2 hours – a new experience that couldn’t possibly be gained elsewhere! So, I could say now that BB is not just Drill and Drill, but it is filled with much excitements with various activities lined up for we Boys to really enjoy and learn at the same time.
Soon year 2014 cantered into reality, as it is the year of the horse as according to the Chinese calendar – New Year, new challenges, and new surprises. I almost couldn’t believe my ear that I am given an opportunity to be an Assistant Squad Leader. Duty call and I have to learn to take charge, assisting my Squad Leader. Indeed I have learned how to manage my squad.
The first two months were quite uneventful. We only had the cycling outing @ Taman Pertanian Negara, Shah Alam which was held on 8 February. Being the first event/outing for both BB and GB, it had indeed spurred many of the interests amongst the current Form 1’s to be excited about coming to BB. For those of us
in Year 2’s and 3’s, as Privates, we were told to prepare ourselves mentally and physically if we decided to go for a Training School Camp - Basic NCO Training School (BNTS). Thankfully, we survived.
Four months later was my second Enrolment and Awards Day at 12th KL. Like last year, all members were gathered there, eagerly awaiting the surprises. Well, my hard work doing my special assignments were not to waste. Got promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal, 3 certificates, 3 badges and a license saying I am a licensed First Responder. Anyone who fainted, quickly searched for ME!
Up to date, my journey continues in 12th KL. To all those who are out there, you are really welcome to join 12th KL. Above all, you won’t regret joining The Boys’ Brigade.