Photos: Amber Qua, Muhammad A'qasha. Graphic: Muhammad A'qasha
A Legacy of ServiceFor over two decades, Lieutenant (LTA) Mohamed Salih Shaik Dawood has been at the forefront of emergency response with the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF). As a veteran member of the Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (DART), his career has been defined by life-saving missions and split-second decisions.
LTA Salih was drawn to emergency services by a simple yet powerful desire to help others. "There's satisfaction that comes from knowing you've made a difference when people are most in need," he shares.
Over his 26 years with DART, LTA Salih's perspective on rescue work has deepened significantly. "Initially, it's easy to focus on the technical skills and procedures, but with experience, you realise that rescue work is also about connecting with individuals in their most vulnerable moments and helping them when they are in need," he shares. These experiences have shaped him personally, instilling a deep sense of discipline, resilience and self-confidence. Working under pressure in high-stakes scenarios has fostered greater empathy, a stronger resolve and an incredible sense of camaraderie with his teammates.
LTA Salih with the Dart Response Vehicle, configurable to respond to missions involving height, collapsed structures or even underwater rescue operations. Photo: Muhammad Aqasha
LTA Salih shares operational insights with fellow DART colleagues. Photo: Amber Qua
Moments That Define Us
LTA Salih in his element: executing a rappelling exercise at Jurong Fire Station. Photo: Muhammad A'qasha
Among the countless rescue operations he has undertaken, one stands out in LTA Salih's memory. In September 2023, his team rescued a stroke victim from a 40-metre-high crane. "Our priority was the safe evacuation of the victim, while ensuring the safety of the rescue team," recalls LTA Salih of the meticulous operation conducted 13 storeys above ground. “The sense of fulfilment from saving a life is truly immeasurable.”
Another defining moment is his first Operation Lionheart deployment, which tested every aspect of his training and experience. During an intense eight-hour rescue operation in Myanmar earlier this year, LTA Salih and his team worked tirelessly in extremely confined spaces to save a trapped person.
LTA Salih (third from right) and a few members of the Operation Lionheart contingent who were deployed to Myanmar. Photo: SCDF
They had sprung into action after local authorities reported that a man was found trapped under a semi-collapsed building following an earthquake. Hearing the victim’s voice spurred them forward as they worked in a space measuring just half a metre wide. "One of our concerns was ensuring the successful rescue of the casualty while minimising risks to both the casualty and the rescuers," he explained. Good teamwork and his years of training and experience proved crucial in navigating the challenges effectively.
"I am really grateful to my teammates and the local rescuers from Naypyidaw Fire Service Department under Myanmar Fire Services Department, who pushed through every challenge as we successfully brought the victim to safety," said LTA Salih.
From Emergency Response to Collaborative DesignThese front-line experiences as an emergency responder shaped LTA Salih's perspective on the NDP 2025 logo co-creation process, a first-of-its-kind initiative to celebrate Singapore’s 60
th year of independence.
For LTA Salih, being selected as one of the 25 co-creators was deeply meaningful. He saw it as an opportunity to contribute to a logo that would foster a sense of shared responsibility and empower individuals to step forward and make a difference, especially when lives are at stake.
He chose red to represent the passion and urgency that drives emergency services, and blue to convey trust, calm and stability that emergency service personnel bring in times of crisis.
LTA Salih showing the NDP 2025 logo that he reinterpreted to incorporate elements related to emergency services. PHOTOS: Amber Qua and Muhammad A'qasha
A Symbol of Hope and UnityGuided by the themes of protection, hope and unity, the NDP logo LTA Salih created transcends SCDF's mission of saving lives - it reflects Singapore's collective strength and resilience and represents how every citizen plays a vital role in nation-building.
His dream is to nurture Singapore as a nation of lifesavers, building a resilient community where people are not only prepared but also willing to support one another in times of need. "It's a reminder of the importance of safeguarding the nation's well-being and contributing to its continued growth and prosperity," he reflects, highlighting the deep connection between his service and national identity.
"National Day reminds us of our collective responsibility to protect and serve the community," LTA Salih reflects. "Being one of the 25 co-creators makes this National Day even more meaningful for me. I hope Singaporeans will see the logo as a symbol of SCDF’s dedication to saving lives."
