2017 marks 50 years of National Service (NS) in Singapore. In 1967, NS was introduced to fulfil the critical need of defending a young nation. 50 years from its inception, NS is an established national institution and a rite of passage for all Singaporeans. During this NS milestone, Singapore commemorates the important role NS has played in nation-building and providing the security and stability essential for Singapore's progress and prosperity. The NS50 commemorative stamps are launched to coincide with the passing of the National Service (Amendment) Bill and the registration of the first batch of full-time national servicemen in 1967. The NS50 commemorative stamps also serve as a symbolic reminder of the history of NS, and that NS is a source of pride and strength of Singapore.