ISSUE 228 OCTOBER 2014 - Ministry of Defence

ISSUE 228 OCTOBER 2014

#OurSgArmywww.mindef.gov.sg/army

HIGHLIGHTS

MULFAC | CHILDREN’S DAY | SYMBOLS OF OUR ARMY: AMS

- - - - - - - - ISSUE 228OCTOBER 2014

24 Joseph KoaWarf ighter, Tra iner, Leader

6 A Wor ld-Class Urban L ive-Fi r ingFaci l i t y

IN THIS ISSUE:10 Our Chi ldren, Our Future

AROUND OUR ARMY

3 Ensur ing a Safe R ide

30SCE Turn-Ops Parade

4 The Chief of S taf f of the German Army V is i t s Our Army

The SAF’s New Sergeant Major

5 Armour D in ing in

1 S IR 15th Mono In- take Mi les tone Parade

FEATURES

8 In teract ive Tra i l

9 Operat ional Learn ing Capabi l i t ies : The Army’s Learn ing Edge

16 Post AHM Rev iew

18 Celebrat ing 48 Years of Pr ide , D isc ip l ine and Honour

19 Tra in ing wi th Nature

20 The Oppor tuni ty to Lead

22 Symbols of Our Army: Army Medical Serv ices

25 Tankees , Ro l l Out

26 SAFSA Awards 2014

27 Ful l T ime Commitment , Par t T ime Job

3

Around Our Army

[email protected]/[email protected]/oursingaporearmy

ur Army prides itself on having first class training facilities and this month we visit the Murai Urban Live-Firing Facility. Our soldiers and our vehicles continue to have realistic training in an Urban setting but with all the necessary safety measures in place.

The Army Half Marathon may be over but it has certainly left a lot of pleasant memories for its participants, from a NS unit that runs together, to a soldier that runs for charity to families that run together. Catch up on these memories on page 16-17.

Training for IPPT has seen some new changes. Find out about the pilot programmes, how it works, the benefits and the locations.

This month we also take some time to commemmorate Children’s Day. Celebrated the world over, Children’s Day is a time when we remember our children , and how important it is and will always be that we set aside precious time to spend with them as they grow to the next phase of their lives. Army News had the privilege of sharing a weekend with some of Our in-service personnel spending time with their families and friends. These magical moments were captured in our photo montage on pages 10 - 15.

We are now into the last quarter of 2014. Much time has passed but there is still so much more exciting times to look forward to. Have a great month ahead!

Mel FerdinandsEditor of Army News

Editor Speaks

Othe

News Crew

BG Lim Hock Yu

Editorial Advisor

COL Alfred FoxCOL Chua Boon KeatCOL Paul CheakLTC Dennis OhCWO Ng Siak PingSLTC (NS) James SureshMAJ (NS) Sebastian Sim

Editorial Board

PhotographersBoey Jun WeiLim Wei LiangMatthew LimTerrance Yee

Aaron NgLow Kai Heng

Graphic Designers

Koh Jian LeRoy Chong

Lim Wei JianJeremy Hong

Facebook RepresentativeLee Xiang Rong

Alastair Loe

EditorMel Ferdinands

Deputy EditorMelvin Loo

Assistant EditorAloysius Lum

WritersOon Ming ShenLeong Khee ShuenSaravanan s/o MunusamyAshwin LeeBrandon LeowKeita Sin

Appointment Incoming Outgoing

CO/ 63 CSSB MAJ(NS) DAVE LIM KOK WEE LTC(NS) CHAN WAI HERNG MARK

CO/ 611 SIR MAJ(NS) LIM TSUN KHEE ALBERTLTC(NS) WONG HIN PKIN

WENDELL

RSM/ 228 SA 3WO(NS) TAN HONG HOW2WO MELAGAR SINGH S/O DALIP

SINGH

CO/ SOTACCWO TAN MEOW SENG

RAYMONDCWO ESTROP RONALD PETER

HUGH

BDE SM/ 10 SIB MWO TANG SENG CHYE, COLLIN -

BDE SM/ 29 SIB MWO LEE CHOR HWEE -

RSM/ 30 SCE 1WO LEE WAN SENG 1WO CHEANG KIAN BENG ERIC

PASSING ON THE BATONSeptember

ARMY NEWS is a monthly publication of the Singapore Army. The opinions and views in this newsletter are those expressed by the writers and do not reflect the official views of the Ministry of Defence. All rights reserved. Subjected to the provisions of the Copyright Act, 1986, no part of this publication may in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, microcopying, photocopying, recording or otherwise) be reproduced or transmitted without prior written permission from the publisher.

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Ensuring a Safe RideStory by Saravannan s/o Munusamy / Photography by Lim Wei Liang

The Military Transport Safety Review Panel (MTSRP) visited Kaki Bukit Driving Centre, and the SAF Driving Circuit and Cross Country Driving Circuit (CCDC) on 15 August, and Sembawang Camp on 26 August.

The MTSRP’s role is to conduct an independent safety review of the SAF’s transport system. The panel consists of three external industry experts who will analyse the system from a fresh perspective. The knowledge and experience of the panel members will offer valuable insights and help benchmark the Army’s safety standards against the best safety

practices used outside of the SAF. The three experts are Adjunct Associate Professor Gopinath Menon from NTU School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Mr Poh Key Boon, the Executive Director of Transportation and Warehousing Division from the Poh Tiong Choon Logistics Group, and Mr Shaun Tan Poh Chye, Vice-President of Safety for SBS Transit.

For the visit on 26 August the panel was hosted by HQ Transport. They were first given a brief on the driving training system in the SAF after which they toured the driving facilities which included the driving simulators and the SAF Driving Circuit. The visit ended off with the members riding

through the different types of obstacles that trainees go through at the CCDC.

The final sitting of the panel was held on 26 August at Sembawang Camp where they were hosted by SAF Transport Command. The panel started off the visit with a viewing of a Static Display of the vehicles at SAF Transport Command; this was followed by the introduction of the Integrated Transport Management System (ITMS) a system which plays an integral part in the operations of the Transport Command. The panel concluded the visit with the sharing of their observations with Chief Transport Officer COL Tay Yong Meng and Senior Commanders from HQ Transport.

30SCE Turn-Ops ParadeStory by Saravanan s/o Munusamy / Photography by Terrance Yee

Bravo Company from 30 SCE held their Turn Ops Parade at the Army Museum on 28 August. The parade consisted of a route march from Jurong Camp to Army Museum followed by a parade form up outside the Army Museum. The parade consisted of the symbolic mounting of the operational badge for every soldier, which

was witnessed by families and friends of the soldiers. The reviewing officer for the parade was LTC Terence Ho, CO 30 SCE. In his speech during the parade CPT Benjamin Lim Tiong Beng, OC Bravo Company 30 SCE said, “Bravo Company will not be here without the blood, sweat and tears of every one of you here on parade today. It has

been a terrific journey thus far, and I look forward to your continued dedication and commitment to trainings and operational duties.” Hats off to the soldiers for their efforts and all the best for their future exercises and trainings, which will definitely be much harder than before.

*Amendments for last issue: MWO Low Hak Chia took over the appointment of Armour Training Institute, COY COMD/SNR INSTR(ULTRA ASC) on 29th July 2014.

CWO Chellaiah(CO STC) explaining to members of MTSRP the layout of CCDC

Army News would l ike to thank Mr Lim Chen You for his service and contributions during his stint in Army News

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Around Our Army

Armour Dining inStory by Keita Sin / Photography by Terrance Yee

1 SIR 15th Mono In-take Milestone ParadeStory by Keita Sin / Photography by Matthew Lim

More than 700 Officers, Warrant Officers, Specialists, Military Experts and Defence Executive Officers were invited to Sungei Gedong Camp on 22 August, when the Armour formation proudly celebrated their 45th Anniversary with a combat dining-in. Chief Armour Officer (CAO) COL Kenneth Liow hosted the event.

Prior to the dinner, representatives from the different Armour units gathered to create a time-capsule. Each unit contributed items that they felt had significant meaning to their generation and unit. Following that, COL Kenneth Liow addressed the formation, “We chose to hold this year’s dining in here, because this parade square is the last of our

original parade squares. Tonight is about celebrating and sharing the stories of our pioneers, their sacrifices, their dedication and their sense of duties.”

Among the Pioneers who attended the event was COL (RET) Goh Lye Choon, who was certainly pleased to be at the event “Perseverance is something very important in Armour because the working hours are very long. I remember when we had to service the tank for long hours in the past, the tanks had to be in deployable condition at all times. I have not been back for an official armour event for the past 30 years and it is really great to be here.”

SWO Jennifer Tan, Division Sergeant Major, 2 PDF spoke to us “The Combat Dining-In is not a new thing in the army; many units have done it before. However, what makes this occasion today so special is that everyone here is wearing the tank overall that represents us. This is good as the junior specialists will also get to experience the atmosphere of being part of the Armour family.”

It was a wonderful night of catching up for the Armour family, and a reunion of active, NS, and retired members. Army News would like to congratulate the Armour formation on their 45th Anniversary.

During any parade, family members and friends instinctively stand up and crowd to the front to get the best possible view of their personal heroes of the day. It was no different on 21 August. “The proud men of 1 SIR were responsible for the real-time security of our key installations in Singapore,” introduced LTC Justiin Ang, Commanding Officer 1st Singapore Infantry Regiment (1 SIR), as the soldiers of the 15th Mono Intake proudly conducted their milestone parade.

Also present at the parade was witnessing officer, Brigade Commander 2nd Singapore Infantry Brigade (2 SIB), COL David Neo, accompanied by Brigade Sergeant Major 2 SIB, MWO Ng Puay Hng.

“I am amazed that my son managed to make it through NS and we are very proud of him,” shared Mrs. Jacqueline Dorall Yeo, who attended the parade with her husband, Mr. Eric Yeo, to support their son CPL James.

Mr. Yeo noticed a great change in his son too. “James grew to be a confident and disciplined man and he definitely picked up a lot of life skills in the army. I think he is ready to protect our country.”

The soldiers also reflected that their 2 years in army played a major role in building their character. 3SG Bolin Tan, 1 SIR, Alpha Coy, MPAT Commander commented “As a commander, I had to lead my men no matter how tired I was. Being in the army has taught me endurance.” CFC Amirulbolkia, 1 SIR, Bravo Coy, 2IC too felt “The commanders in 1 SIR were very understanding and motivating, providing us with guidance to set a better future.”

Congratulations to Our soldiers on their completion of their full-time National Service.

The SAF’s New Sergeant MajorStory by Brandon Leow / Photography by Matthew Lim

On 13 August, a parade was held at Leader’s Hall in Pasir Laba camp to commemorate the Singapore Armed Forces Sergeant Major (SAFSM) change of appointment. The parade consisted of Warrant Officers and Specialists, and Military Experts from the Army, Navy and Air Force. The outgoing SAFSM CWO Joseph Koa handed over his appointment to the incoming SAFSM CWO Tang Peck Oon.

The change of appointment parade also marked the end of CWO Joseph Koa’s regular service. Having served in the SAF for a long and distinguished career, with appointments that include Personal Assistant to the Defence Attaché in Indonesia, Intelligence Sergeant Major, 9 Division Sergeant Major and Sergeant Major of the Army (SMA), CWO Joseph Koa’s contributions have been numerous and distinguished indeed.

CWO Joseph Koa shared his thoughts in his farewell speech “Today’s change of appointment parade also marks the end of my regular service, in uniform, in the Singapore Armed Forces. It was a great and fulfilling thirty eight years of service. And I am grateful for the many opportunities to be a useful person to the Singapore Armed Forces.”

CWO Tang Peck Oon whose last appointment was Sergeant Major of the Army, takes over CWO Joseph Koa’s position as the SAF SM. CWO Tang Peck Oon’s appointments include Regimental Sergeant Major of the 1 Singapore Infantry Regiment, Officer Commanding (OC) of School of Infantry Specialists, Brigade Sergeant Major of 23 Singapore Infantry Brigade, 9 Division Sergeant Major and SMA.

We would like to wish CWO Joseph Koa all the best in his future endeavors and warmly welcome CWO Tang Peck Oon as new SAFSM.

The Chief of Staff of the German Army, Visits Our ArmyStory by Saravanan s/o Munusamy

Photography by Leong Khee Shuen

On 12 August and 13 August, the Chief of Staff, German Army, Lieutenant General (LTG) Bruno Kasdorf visited the Multi-Mission Range Complex (MMRC) and the Goh Keng Swee Command and Staff College (GKS CSC) respectively, as part of his Military Investiture Ceremony and introductory visit to Singapore. For the visit to MMRC, LTG Bruno Kasdorf was hosted by Commander, TRADOC, BG Chan Wing Kai.

He was given a tour of the MMRC and had the opportunity to fire the SAR-21 at the firing range. During his visit to GKS CSC, LTG Bruno Kasdork addressed an audience that included Chief Of Army MG Perry Lim, Commandant GKS CSC COL Ng Wai Kit and students from GKS CSC. He then engaged in a dialogue session with the students from the college.

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MULFAC

A World-Class Urban Live-Firing Facility Story by Oon Ming Shen / Photography by Boey Jun Wei and Lim Chen You

The modern battlefield is likely to be set in an urban environment, it is therefore important to be able to operate competently in a concrete battlefield. The newly-unveiled Murai Urban Live-Firing Facility (MULFAC) at the Lim Chu Kang Live-Firing Area trains soldiers to be able to operate confidently in such settings. The MULFAC enables the SAF to execute a full urban operation mission of up to a company-sized force.

The MULFAC comprises five urban operations buildings, a hand grenade house, an after action review facility and two firebases (a close and far firebase). The hand grenade house allows soldiers to practise throwing a live hand grenade into a room prior to assault, and gives soldiers more opportunities to throw live grenades – up to five times during their active NS and ICT compared to once or twice previously. Video cameras within the facility enables high-fidelity debriefs at the after action facility to train soldiers more effectively. Soldiers can also execute live fire manoeuvres as the MULFAC permits live-firing at the external façade of a building from a far firebase, close firebase and to another building within this facility. It also permits live-firing assault within buildings with complex room layouts and the use of live door breaching charges to facilitate a complete full force-level urban assault manoeuvre.

This facility, which provides soldiers with enhanced training

effectiveness in a safe urban live-firing environment, was unveiled on 14 August by Defence Minister Dr. Ng Eng Hen. He was accompanied by Chief of Army MG Perry Lim and senior officials from the SAF. Speaking at the official opening , Dr. Ng said, “The MULFAC is another product of our commanders who want to give very realistic training to our soldiers. Fighting in built-up areas will be a likely scenario. The MULFAC is a facility where our soldiers can train for built-up areas and I think it’s a very useful one to give them the confidence in such terrain. This kind of facility gives them a kind of repetitive training so that they are used to the environment. It value-adds to realistic training.”

Complementing the Multi-Mission Range Complex in developing our soldiers’ urban marksmanship and the Murai Urban Training Facility in urban operations training, the MULFAC will enable the SAF to give soldiers an increase of almost 50 to 60 per cent live-firing training. Chief Infantry Officer BG Chiang Hock Woon commented, “We envisage that the modern battlefield is a dense, urbanized area. So in that aspect, the army is transforming into an urban-capable force. The MULFAC comes as a very useful facility to train our soldiers realistically for operations that we envisage they will be put into. For urban live-firing and urban operations in particular, close coordination and precise shooting are very critical components, so the MULFAC allows that to happen. It allows troops and commanders to practise command and control to the most minute of details so that their mission can be conducted successfully and safely.”

Troops on the ground who have tried out the MULFAC have given it the thumbs up. LTA Huang Lelun Laurent, a platoon commander, noted, “The facility gives us a more multi-faceted approach to training, compared to the past where training was more restricted. As a commander, I especially find the viewing gallery useful as I can have a bird’s-eye view of their manoeuvre. This allows me to correct my soldiers’ mistakes more effectively and with a holistic view of their movements, I can conduct a better analysis of their manoeuvres.”

“What’s new is that the MULFAC allows us to integrate troops and vehicles to come into play,” said 1SG Mohammad Nur Hisham, a platoon sergeant from the Guards formation. “Electronic targets instead of targets pasted on walls provide more training realism. We have more freedom in our training menu as we can relocate the targets around.”

COA MG Perry Lim and Defence Minister Dr Ngat the official opening of the MULFAC

To provide realistic urban operations training, the MULFAC employs judgmental targets to simulate realistic scenarios. Soldiers can hone

instinctive shooting skills and apply rules of engagement that require real-time target analysis before shooting.

3 GDS’ Urban Operations at the MULFAC

Guardsmen from the 3rd Battalion, Singapore Guards conducted their urban

operations training at the newly-inaugurated MULFAC. They were the first batch of

soldiers to train at the MULFAC since its inauguration.

PTE Bharath, an MG Gunner from Bravo Company, Platoon 6, commented, “This new

facility is very useful as we can train in a mission-based context, up to the company

level. It’s more realistic and it helps us train for operations as we can build up our

confidence in live-firing.”

“The training is now more realistic and we can have more experience in urban

operations. I believe I will be more confident in urban operations in the future with this

new complex,” said LCP Md Asrul from Bravo Company, Platoon 5.

The MULFAC permits the use of live door breaching charges to facilitate a complete full force-level

urban assault manoeuvre.

The MULFAC permits live-firing at the external façade of a building from a far firebase, close firebase and to another building within this facility.

Defence Minister engaging troops from the Guards formation

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Interactive TrailStory by Saravanan s/o Munusamy / Photography by Matthew Lim

I believe many of us know the connection that places like Fort Canning and the YMCA have with the Japanese Occupation during World War 2. However, do you know that the Cathay Building, a popular movie complex where many of us watch the latest blockbusters, and even the Singapore Art Museum, a common place of visit for school excursions, have their place in Singapore’s history of the Japanese Occupation.

83 personnel from 4 SAB had the opportunity to learn about the little known facts behind important landmarks and places of interests in Singapore when they participated in an “Interactive Battlefield Trail” held at the Civic District on 1 August. The trail is a unique team-based Total Defence trail that allows teams to learn, bond and have fun with one another in the Civic District using location-based mobile technology and in the process learn about the impact of war on civilians and help reinforce the need to stay vigilant in protecting the security interests of our Nation. This particular trail was special as 4 SAB was the first operational unit to participate in this new Total Defence Exercise Trial.

Participants were split into different teams and played out the trail in an “Amazing

Race” fashion. Teams raced against each other to various pre-designated sites like the YMCA, Fort Canning Park and The Civilian War Memorial - historically significant WWll sites. Upon their arrival at the sites, the participants were given tasks, such as quizzes and creative photo/video taking to facilitate team-work. The usage of mobile technology was popular among participants. 3SG Tan Li Guang was pleased with the way the trail was conducted, “The idea of using mobile technology and interactive activities is excellent to capture the attention and imagination of participants.”

At the end of the session, reflections were conducted to link what the participants had seen and experienced, to the overall learning lessons for the Battlefield Trail@ Civic District. The trail definitely turned out to be an eye opening experience for many of the participants as shared by 3SG Chan Sin Wah Julian “The trail has enabled us to learn more about the little known facts behind the important landmarks in Singapore.”

Units can book the Battlefield Trail at Civic District through the Nexus website. To find out more about the trail, units can call 6255 4645 or write to [email protected].

In today’s increasingly Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous (VUCA) operating environment, the expectations we place on our soldiers are increasingly demanding. Juxtaposing that with the hybrid threats we now find ourselves facing, our 3rd Gen Army is more than ever required to operate and perform at the highest level. It is with this backdrop in mind that the Centre for Army Lessons Learnt (CALL) was established in 2010. CALL aims to equip our soldiers with the ability to learn at the pace of operations - the ability to learn-as-we-fight, in an effort to better prepare our soldiers for the rigorous and mercurial demands required of them.

In our Training Institutes (TIs), CALL

supports Our Army’s learning by deploying Lessons Learnt Analysts (LLAs) to assist the TIs in identifying and analysing data collected by our trainers. Our Trainers use the Action Learning Process (ALP) as a means to conduct their training to our units. Issues that have significant impact on Tactics, Techniques and Procedures

(TTP), Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) or even how we conduct our training in order to bring the best out of our soldiers would be analysed. In our Operational Units, learning agents – known as the Operations Learning Teams (OLTs) – augment the unit in learning and Knowledge Management (KM). Again, using the same process of ALP, our OLTs codify valuable lessons using the standardised templates. To fully harness this learning capability, both the lessons collected by the trainers and OLTs would be routed to CALL for trend analysis and in-depth study.

Other than analysing these lessons, CALL will derive and recommend actionable solutions by consulting the relevant Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) or Senior Specialist Staff Officer (SSSO) HQs within the Army. This service is to ensure that lessons identified are rapidly ploughed back to improve our Army.

By collaborating with LEARNet, CALL aims to cultivate the Army’s

learning culture from a Trainer-Centric habit to a Learner-Centric behaviour. Increasingly, our soldiers have learnt to embrace learning, widen Our Army's thirst for knowledge and translating that learning and knowledge into training and combat operations. And being a new set-up entrusted with such a task is not an easy feat. As Integration & Implementation (I&I) Supervisor, Mr Jay Ong(above left), a Senior Lessons Learnt Analyst in CALL puts it “It’s been 1-year into the job and we’ve come a long way. It is challenging to make behavioural changes in soldiers and motivate them to change, but it’s rewarding.”

CALL will continue to strive and produce valuable lessons and govern our operational learning capabilities – the Army’s learning edge – for us to remain Ready, Decisive and Respected.

Right, Allan Cheong, a Lessons Learnt Analyst (Collection & Analysis) and left, Jay Ong, a Senior Lessons Learnt Analyst (integration & Implementation)

“To be in your child’s memory tomorrow, you have to be in their lives today”

This Children’s Day, Army News would like to encourage all service personnel to spend more time with their families. Children’s day falls on 3 October this year and is celebrated in Primary Schools in Singapore. Children’s Day is a tribute to childhood, and children everywhere are honoured.

STORY BYLeong Khee Shuen

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

Boey Jun WeiJeremy Hong Xiang Shen

Lim Chen You

“Time spent with your family is worth every second.”

Where should you start if you’re not

spending enough time with your children?

Making Friends Values

What do you want to be when you grow up? Why?“Inventor. Because I want to invent army tanks!” - Ryan Syazmie

What do you like most about your family?“My family loves me.” - Xandra

Where is your favourite place in the world?“Army and Sentosa” - Xavier Ong

Spec

ial T

hank

s To:

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 416 17

Running for a causeStory by Ashwin Lee / Photographs contributed by Phua Sze Wee

793 SIR - A UNIT That

Races TOGETHER, Stays

TogetherStory & Photography by Leong Khee Shuen

TOGETHER WE RUN Story by Oon Ming Shen

CFC (NS) Eugene Phua Sze Wee used to volunteer actively for the Children’s Cancer Foundation (CCF) in Singapore until he left for his overseas studies in the UK. As a volunteer, he witnessed first-hand how young patients benefitted from the CCF’s efforts as he spent time with them at various hospitals, entertaining and interacting with children and teenagers in order to give them much-needed respite from their treatment. While studying in the UK, CFC Phua was inspired by the strong “running for charity” culture there and decided to do the same thing back home to raise funds for the CCF. “I figured I could do the same for a local charity that has been close to my heart. Furthermore, it gives me the opportunity to use something I enjoy doing, which is running, to help these people who have taught me so much,” says CFC Phua.

Last year was the first time CFC Phua embarked on his personal run for charity. He participated in the 21km edition of the Army Half Marathon (AHM). This year, he has participated in the 21km AHM run once again to raise more funds for the CCF. On top of that, he has been using an online platform to raise funds for CCF as well as making use of Facebook to promote his cause among his friends and family in order to raise awareness. CFC Phua hopes that he can make an impact for those in need, “Raising funds for the CCF is a good way to raise awareness about childhood cancer, and the lives it affects. On a personal level, this endeavour is just my way of giving back

to the society and, more importantly, to the strong-willed children and their loving families, who never cease to inspire me,” he shared. To date, CFC Phua has raised over S$1752 for the CCF. He remained humble about his contributions, simply saying, “I’m just doing my part. And I will continue to do what I can to help out.”

Our army wishes CFC Phua all the best for his future charity endeavours.

With more than 97 participants registered, the NSmen from 793 SIR had the highest participation rate from 9 Division (9 DIV) for the Army Half Marathon (AHM) 2014. 793 SIR is a second year NS battalion and had their most recent In Camp Training(ICT) in June this year. The unit won 9 DIV’s Best NS Unit Award for Commanders’ IPPT in April 2014. Intending to continue this success in the right direction, 793 SIR decided to participate in the Army Half Marathon 2014 to further promote Leadership, Identity and Cohesion within 793 SIR.

With the Unit’s slogan – ‘Beyond What Is Possible’, 793 SIR also prepared a banner to distinguish themselves from the other

runners. The NSmen took part in various categories such as the 21 km and the SAFRA 10 km run, during AHM 2014. Some of them brought their families along to participate in the Families for Life 800m Father & Child Challenge.

MAJ (NS) Daryl Hoo, CO 793

SIR shared, “Taking part in this signature event is to create awareness for my NSmen about maintaining a healthy lifestyle. IPPT has always been a challenge for NSmen. By tagging on to the AHM, this allows them to build cohesiveness and at the same time improve their physical state. I would like to use this as a platform to motivate my NSmen, and every year we hope to see an increase in the number taking part in the event.”

In the early hours of 31 August, more than 45,000 runners gathered Downtown to participate in the SAFRA Singapore Bay Run & Army Half Marathon (SSBR & AHM). The key race categories were the 21km run, 10km run, 5km fun run and the 800m Father and Child Race. Participants had the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing run along the scenic city skyline of the Marina Bay area.

The Guest-of-Honour was Second Minister for Defence, and President of SAFRA Mr. Chan Chun Sing. He flagged off the SAFRA 5km fun run and the 800m Father and Child Race. Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman, Minister of State for Defence, flagged off the 10km run while Chief of Army MG Perry Lim flagged off the 21km run.

For LCP (NS) Yup Wei Tian Edwin, this was his first time taking part in the SSBR & AHM, and he chose the 10km run. He said, “I feel this is a good opportunity for me to test my physical fitness and endurance while still giving me the chance to run together with my army mates.”

This year saw the largest number of participants in the Father and Child Race, with a total of 737 father and child pairs in the run. Fathers had to hold their child’s hand throughout while running the 800m. This event is aimed at promoting healthy living and family bonding, and was jointly organised by SAFRA and the National Family Council. Bryan Lim, a MINDEF Reserve (MR), took part in the race with his son. He commented, “It is a good way for us to have father and son time, giving us

greater opportunities to bond.”

Ensuring the smooth flow of such a large-scale event is no easy task. Essential to this are our Route Marshalls, who help to direct and control the stream of runners. 3SG Isaac Kuan from 42nd Battalion, Singapore Armoured Regiment, said, “Being a Marshall is tiring but important in ensuring the event runs smoothly. This year’s AHM is well organized with dedicated Marshalls to facilitate the run. It’s good to see so many different people running.”

Strategically-placed water points along the running route gave runners a chance to freshen up and hydrate themselves. CPL Vinesh Manu, who helped at a water point, noted, “My job at the water point certainly is tiring as we had to start preparing since 2am. However, it is a fulfilling job, especially when the runners thank us. We play a big part in motivating them to carry on and I’m glad to be able to contribute.”

The Singapore Army hopes that all participants enjoyed themselves at the run and that they will continue to live healthily.

Post AHM Review

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Celebrating 48 years of Pride, Discipline and Honour Story by Saravanan Munusamy / Photography by Lim Wei Liang

IPT IN THE PARKStory by Leong Khee Shuen / Photography by --

Wild Wild Wet was the venue where the SAF MP Command celebrated their 48th Anniversary on 29 August. Guest of Honour (GOH) for the celebration was COL Ong Chia Choong, Commander SAF MP Command.

MP Command is the Military Police unit of the Singapore Armed Forces, performing policing duties to uphold standards of discipline amongst members of the SAF. Its responsibilities include security of key military establishment, the guarding of the Ministry of Defence, ceremonial sentries at the Istana, forming the ceremonial guards for visits by VVIPs and other national events, the maintenance of discipline through enforcement and the operation of the SAF Detention Barracks, and search and rescue operations, amongst others.

The event started off with the arrival of GOH COL Ong Chia Choong who gave his opening remarks, congratulating the formation for its successful operations and thanking his men for all their efforts during their stint in MP Command.

After the address, COL Ong officially started off the anniversary celebrations.

The games challenge started off using the facilities located at Wild Wild Wet. Although the games were played light heartedly with the guys in a celebratory mood, the teams gave their all and competed fiercely in each and every game. Following the completion of games, participants were given some time to explore the venue of celebration.

The celebrations ended off with the presentation of prizes by GOH COL Ong following which the Key Appointment Holders (KAH) of SAF MP Command cut the cake for the anniversary celebrations.

Congratulations to SAF MP Command on its 48th Anniversary and all the best for your future endeavours. PRIDE, DISCIPLINE, HONOUR!

Training with Nature - IPT-in-the-ParkStory by Leong Khee Shuen / Photography by Matthew Lim

Fitness is not a one-time destination; it is a continuous way of life. Indeed, with the introduction of the new IPPT system which includes the three stations - sit ups, push ups and the 2.4km run, training for IPPT is now easier without the need for specialised equipment such as the chin up bar. Starting from 1 September 2014, the IPPT Preparatory Training (IPT)-in-the-Park is a new pilot implementation which aims to bring physical training closer to the homes of our soldiers.

To measure the individual’s progress at the end of the trial, participants are required to perform IPPT in Fitness Conditioning Centres (FCC) for their first and last IPT sessions. The remaining eight IPT training sessions will be done through IPT-in-the-park.

Each day, the venue for each session will be rotated between five locations - Bishan Park, Punggol Park, Marina Bay Floating Platform, MOE Co-curricular Branch and Jurong Central Park. The trial locations have been selected based on a population density study in relation to their distance to FCCs and proximity to hospitals. This will also increase the convenience for NSmen by bringing fitness training to the existing parks and stadiums near the participants’ homes and workplaces.

The pilot programme will last from September to December 2014, with

fitness instructors from the Army Fitness Centre (AFC) conducting the trial in the first month. Commercial trainers will then be conducting the trial for the next three months and they will take on the roles of conducting and supervising officers. This is done to assess the difference between in-house and externally conducted sessions. NSmen attending IPPT and IPT in FCCs will be sourced to participate in this trial.

Lasting 75 minutes in total for each session, 15 minutes will be allocated for briefings and warm-up, followed by 60 minutes of exercise and cool-down. To avoid overcrowding, the participant size will be limited to 50 participants per location

and each week, different exercises will be introduced at the respective locations.

Going beyond the conventional type of fitness training, IPT-in-the-Park aims to meet the outcome of improved fitness while allowing an engaging and fulfilling training experience through the use of varied fitness modalities. For the trial, participants can also choose the type of exercises that they wish to complete during each session which also includes playing games such as soccer as well as agility drills.

Commander SAF MP Command Col Ong Chia Choong (middle, in black) leading the celebratory cake cutting.

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 420 21

The Interactive Leadership Challenge (ILC) marked the final day of the NCC Senior Specialist Course. The ILC was the finale of the course in which the Cadets were tasked to complete a 90 minute team based challenge that would serve as a common shared experience for all the Cadets. The ILC was facilitated by Cadet Officers to create a platform for them to exercise what they have learnt for facilitation. The key objectives for this challenge were for the cadets to exercise their leadership skills, utilising what they had learnt about themselves and each other via the TetraMap profiling to complete a team building challenge that would be both physically and mentally demanding. The challenge started off at Labrador Park and ended at Kent Ridge Park. Upon completion of the challenge, 3SG Kang Shn Ting Claris from Cedar Girls Secondary School said, “I feel very accomplished to have come so far with my team. Although the challenge was mentally and physically draining, as everyone in my team did a great job, we were able to successfully complete it.” Despite the success, Claris’ team had its problems too initially, “Everyone’s fitness level is not the same. During the initial stages of the race, a few of my teammates including myself were starting to get tired, this caused a split in my team as the fitter ones in the team raced ahead, leaving us behind. We eventually gathered ourselves at a checkpoint, sorted out the problem immediately and from there on the race went smoothly for us.”

The Opportunity to Lead

Story by Saravanan s/o Munusamy / Photography by Leong Khee Shuen

From 24 to 26 June the NCC Senior Specialist Course was held at HQ NCC, Amoy Quee Camp. The knowledge acquired from this course is useful for the cadets and upon successful completion; they will be appointed as the Auxiliary Instructors in their school units where they will be able to impart knowledge acquired during the course to their junior cadets.

To close off the challenge and the course, all the cadets assembled at the entrance of Kent Ridge Park for an end of course parade where the winners for the Challenge were announced and graduation certificates were awarded. Many valuable lessons were taken away from this course as 3SG Abu Samah Bin Abduk Razak from Evergreen Secondary School shared, “Leading by example is important. As a leader, although my expectations of myself will be high, I must be able to achieve it and set an example to my cadets as they look up to me for leadership and I am responsible in not letting them down.”

I must say that I am very impressed with how this course was run. Initially, I was expecting this to be a typical secondary school camp that would be focusing on fun and games rather than on the NCC itself. However, I was to be proven wrong. The course, from start to end was run on discipline and regimentation. The cadets were put through their paces from the very beginning. Credit must be given to the cadet officers who were put in charge of the cadets. The cadets too must be acknowledged for working so well with their cadet officers. I always believe that NCC plays a key role in the growth of our youth and this course reinforces that belief and leaves me satisfied knowing that the development of the future generation of our Army is in good hands.

DAY 1Day 1 started off with the arrival of the cadets at HQ NCC, Amoy Quee Camp,

after which they were split into their different platoons and sections. The cadets spent the rest of the day practicing their arm and foot drills together in sections of their platoon. Hours were spent perfecting the drills as the cadets would be having their arms and foot drills test the next day. 3SG K Deenadayalan Yuvaneshraj from Bowen Secondary School is one of the few selected cadets to have been selected for this course from his school and is grateful as he said, “I feel very honoured and privileged to have been selected for this course. A great responsibility has been placed on my shoulders. I hope to repay the faith my school has put in me by learning as much as I can from this course.”

DAY 2The two main activities in day 2 were the Foot and Arms Drills Mutual Assessment and the TetraMap Leadership

Course. The TetraMap is a learning model designed to improve team cohesion and collaboration, boosting productivity, customer service, and sales. The simple, robust model based on Nature transforms team performance by helping people understand themselves and others far better. The objective of this course is to increase the cadets own understanding of their individual preferences as well as their team’s preference. This course was conducted as part of NCC’s self-awareness, communication and leadership skill development process. During the TetraMap lessons, the Cadets were guided on how to use the TetraMap workbook which would reveal to them their TetraMap preferences. After which, they went through a simple game using the Action- Learning- Plan process. To ensure the Cadets learn and have a platform to apply what they have learnt, they went through a simple game to facilitate their teamwork. The TetraMap course had certainly had its impact on the cadets as seen in the case of 3SG Kiran Dev Suresh from Yishun Secondary School who shared, “ This course helps me to understand myself better and gauge others better. As I will be put in charge of cadets once I have completed the Senior Spec course, with what I have learnt today, I will be able to better gauge the strength and weakness of my men.”

DAY 3

3SG Kiran Dev Suresh from Yishun Secondary School receiving an award for his outstanding performances

during the camp.

3SG Kang Shn Ting Claris(left) with her team

23

The serpent has traditionally been associated with the art & science of medicine. Its origin can be traced to Ancient Greece temples devoted to worshipping the God of Medicine, Asclepius. These temples served also as hospitals and in each were to be found a circular pit containing a serpent. Retrieved by coiling the serpent from around a wooden rod, it was believed that applying the serpent’s forked tongue to the diseased body brought about healing. The sword that is central to the logo replaces the

rod and is the recognised symbol of the Army. It is raised in righteousness and strength, unsheathed

in readiness to do battle. The entwining of the serpent evokes the intimate bond between the Army’s Medical Services and its fighting forces.

The Army Medical Services logo is made up of a serpent

entwined around a sword, the latter resting upon a

motto-bearing scroll.

SMTI

SPC

ADF MED GP

DIV MED GP

ARMYMEDICAL COMMAND

1 CSH 2 CSH 3 CSH 8 CSH

The story of the Medical Corps begins in the colonial era. In 1901, the Ambulance and Bearer Section of the Singapore Volunteer Artillery (SVA) was formed under the command of MAJ PC Mugliston. In tandem with the evolution of SVA into the Singapore Volunteer Corps (SVC) in 1913, the medical section was enlarged to form the Bearer Company of the SVC.

With the imminent approach of war in the 1930s, Singapore’s existing Medical Services took the initiative to upgrade themselves even further. The Volunteer Field Ambulance was incorporated into the Civilian Medical Auxiliary Service which was activated shortly after when the Japanese invade Singapore and Malaya.

After three years and eight months of terror, the Japanese Occupation �nally ended. Amidst the post-war euphoria, the Singapore Military Forces (SMF) came into being. In 1952, the Singapore Army Medical Corps was established as a supporting wing of the SMF, with Dr Ganedran as its �rst Commanding O�cer. He led a group of dedicated medical o�cer who unsel�shly volunteered to contribute their professional skills to the SMF.

In 1967, Senior Medical O�cer’s (SMO) Department in the Ministry of the Interior and Defence was established. Dr Jimmy Choo, a surgeon second from Ministry of Health, headed it. As the �rst Senior Medical O�cer (SMO), Dr Jimmy Choo was faced with the daunting tasks of reviewing manpower requirements, delineating proper procedures for the screening of National Service enlistees and setting up the School of Military Medicine. In parallel with the increasing size and complexity of the SAF, its units and their medical elements, the Medical Service became increasingly specialised. To deal with the intricacies and specialisation of the Medical Services, Headquarters Medical Services was established on 1st Jun 1972 to co-ordinate medical matters in SAF.

In 1988, the Senior Medical O�ce (Army) was formed and helmed by Senior Medical O�cer (Army) LTC(DR) Lionel Lee and was further restructured in 1990 to incorporate the three Comabt Support Hospitals (1 CSH, 2 CSH and 3 CSH). On Dec 1995, The O�ce of the Chief Army Medical O�cer was re-designed as HQ Army Medical Services (HQ AMS) o�cially as a Senior Specialist Sta� O�cer (SSSO) HQ managing the three Combat Support Hospitals. In 2006, School of Military Medicine (SMM) was restructured into the SAF Medical Training Institute (SMTI) and came under the command of HQ AMS.

HQ AMS has participated in various Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) e�orts in the SAF. Today, Army Medical Services continues to participate in many International and National events such as the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM)-Plus HADR Exercise, Singapore Youth Olympics Games (SYOG) 2010 as well as the annual National Day Parade and Army Half Marathon.

COMBAT MEDICALSUPPORT

MEDICALTRAINING

MEDICALOPERATIONS

SOLDIERS’PERFORMANCE

HEALTHCARESERIVCES

The objective of the Combat Support Hospitals is to provide resuscitative surgery to casualties so that they could last the journey to the base hospitals. Today, there are four Combat Support Hospitals to support Our Army.

The 3rd Generation Medical Support System saw the modernisation of equipment and capabilities of the combat medic, battalion casualty station (BCS) and medical company. In 2014, the new combat ambulances will also be introduced to enhance evacuation of casualties.

Over the past decade, medical training has undergone a rapid transforma-tion. Since 2006, e�orts were made to credential paramedic training in SMTI hence benchmarking our paramedic training to world-class standards. Since 2010, all recruits undergoing Basic Military Training (BMT) were trained in CPR and AED. The Medical Skills Training and Simulation Centre (MSTC) was opened in 2012 to provide professional and e�ective training for our medical personnel. SMTI attained OSHAS 1800:2007 on 3 Apr 14.

The Army Medical Services has participated in various HADR e�orts in the SAF since 1970. AMS has provided medical relief and medical support in both local and overseas missions. Army Medical Services continues to participate in many Interna-tional and National events such as the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM) - Plus HADR Exercise, Singapore Youth Olympics Games (SYOG) 2010 as well as the annual National Day Parade and Army Half Marathon.

Since 1989 Soldier Performance Centre (SPC) became involved into specialist research in the �elds of human performance and conditioning. The recent years saw SPC being involved in specialist research in the areas of preventing heat injury; preventing military training related injury as well as enhancing SAF Occupational Health.

On 28 Nov 2011, SAF Medical Corps signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Changi General Hospital in a collaboration to advance military sports medicine.

Together with MMI, HQ AMS continues to provide professional oversight of the Army Medical Centres. The mission of the Medical Centres is to care for the health of our servicemen, delivering the highest quality of patient-centric care to sustain and enhance force health in peacetime and war.

S Y M B O L S O F O U R A R M Y :

SMTI

SPC

ADF MED GP

DIV MED GP

ARMYMEDICAL COMMAND









MEDICALTRAINING

MEDICALOPERATIONS


HEALTHCARESERIVCES









Article by HQ AMS

The motto emblazoned on the scroll proclaims “LIFE FIRST”. This is the essence of the sacred duty and challenge that has confronted medical forces labouring on the battlefield of war & peace throughout history. Remaining

steadfast to this mission will mean the alleviation of

pain & suffering, and the safeguarding of the Army’s

vital fighting strength.

The colours used remain true to those of the SAF’s earliest Medical

Services logo, namely maroon and gold. The colour of the logo

hearkens to the flag of our predecessors, the British Royal

Army Medical Corps, where the colours of dull cherry, blue

and old gold are found.

Motto

Serpent

Sword

Colours

SMTI

SPC

ADF MED GP

DIV MED GP

ARMYMEDICAL COMMAND









MEDICALTRAINING

MEDICALOPERATIONS


HEALTHCARESERIVCES









The story of the Medical Corps begun during the colonial era. In 1901, the Ambulance and Bearer Section of the Singapore Volunteer Artillery (SVA) was formed under the command of MAJ PC Mugliston. In tandem with the evolution of SVA into the Singapore Volunteer Corps (SVC) in 1913, the medical section was enlarged to form the Bearer Company of the SVC.

With the imminent approach of war in the 1930s, Singapore’s existing Medical Services took the initiative to upgrade themselves even further. The Volunteer Field Ambulance was incorporated into the Civilian Medical Auxiliary Service which was activated shortly after when the Japanese invaded Singapore and Malaya. After three years and eight months of terror, the Japanese Occupation finally ended.

Amidst the post-war euphoria, the Singapore Military Forces (SMF) came into being. In 1952, the Singapore Army Medical Corps was established as a supporting wing of the SMF, with Dr Ganedran as its first Commanding Officer. He led a group of dedicated medical officers who unselfishly volunteered to contribute their professional skills to the SMF.

In 1967, the Senior Medical Officer’s (SMO) Department in the Ministry of the Interior and Defence was established. Dr Jimmy Choo, a surgeon second from Ministry of Health, headed it. As the first Senior Medical Officer (SMO), Dr Jimmy Choo was faced with the daunting tasks of reviewing manpower requirements, delineating proper procedures for the screening of National Service enlistees and setting up the School of Military Medicine. In parallel with the increasing size and complexity of the SAF, its units and their medical elements, the Medical Service became increasingly specialised. To deal with the intricacies and specialisation of the Medical

Services, Headquarters Medical Services was established on 1st June 1972 to co-ordinate medical matters in SAF.

In 1988, the Senior Medical Office (Army) was formed and helmed by Senior Medical Officer (Army) LTC(DR) Lionel Lee and was further restructured in 1990 to incorporate the three Combat Support Hospitals (1 CSH, 2 CSH and 3 CSH). In Dec 1995, The Office of the Chief Army Medical Officer was re-designed as HQ Army Medical Services (HQ AMS) officially as a Senior Specialist Staff Officer (SSSO) HQ managing the three Combat Support Hospitals. In 2006, School of Military Medicine (SMM) was restructured into the SAF Medical Training Institute (SMTI) and came under the command of HQ AMS.

HQ AMS has participated in various Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) efforts for the SAF. Today, Army Medical Services continues to participate in many International and National events such as the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM)-Plus HADR Exercise, Singapore Youth Olympics Games (SYOG) 2010 as well as the annual National Day Parade and Army Half Marathon.

SMTI

SPC

ADF MED GP

DIV MED GP

ARMYMEDICAL COMMAND









MEDICALTRAINING

MEDICALOPERATIONS


HEALTHCARESERIVCES









The objective of the Combat Support Hospitals is to provide resuscitative surgery to casualties so that they could last the journey to the base hospitals. Today, there are four Combat Support Hospitals to support Our Army. (1 CSH, 2 CSH, 3 CSH, 8 CSH)


Over the past decade, medical training has undergone a rapid transformation. Since 2006, efforts were made to provide credential paramedic training in SMTI hence benchmarking our paramedic training to world-class standards. Since 2010, all recruits undergoing Basic Military Training (BMT) were trained in CPR and AED. The Medical Skills Training and Simulation Centre (MSTC) was opened in 2012 to provide professional and effective training for our medical personnel. SMTI attained OSHAS 1800:2007 on 3 Apr 14.

The Army Medical Services has participated in various HADR efforts in the SAF since 1970. AMS has provided medical relief and medical support in both local and overseas missions. Army Medical Services continues to participate in many International and National events such as the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM) - Plus HADR Exercise, Singapore Youth Olympics Games (SYOG) 2010 as well as the annual National Day Parade and Army Half Marathon.

Since 1989 the Soldier Performance Centre (SPC) has been involved in specialist research in the fields of human performance and conditioning. The recent years saw SPC being involved in specialist research in the areas of preventing heat injury; preventing military training related injury as well as enhancing SAF Occupational Health.

On 28 Nov 2011, the SAF Medical Corps signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Changi General Hospital in a collaboration to advance military sports medicine.



MEDICALTRAINING

MEDICALOPERATIONS


HEALTHCARESERVICES

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 424

tankees, roll out!

Story by Brandon Leow / Photography by Matthew Lim

The Armour Formation recently celebrated its 45th anniversary at Sungei Gedong Camp on 15 August. Minister for Social and Family Development and Second Minister for Defence (2M), Mr Chan Chun Sing and Chief of Army (COA) MG Perry Lim were in attendance. In addition, many veterans from the armour formation returned to observe the parade, proving that “Once Armour, Always Armour”.

The parade commander was COL (NS) Fong Khai Seck, Parade 2IC was LTC Wong Pui Pin, Head of General Staff, Headquarters Armour and the parade regimental sergeant major was MWO Low Hak Chia, Chief Master Trainer, Armour Training Institute. The men put on an impressive parade which culminated in a display of the Leopard Tank and its driving capabilities.

2LT Jin Zhan was an ensign for 42 SAR,

hoisting its colours aloft in the parade. “It is an honour that I was selected to carry the flag of 42 SAR, Armour has come a long way, not just in its capabilities and technology, but also in its people who continue to embody the virtues of armour. It is also commendable that we can carry on the spirit of the pioneers of Armour to the 3G era, from armoured vehicles to a more network centric force.”

CWO Joseph koaStory by Brandon Leow / Photography by Matthew Lim

After having spent more than 30 years on active duty in the SAF, CWO Joseph Koa has officially retired from regular service. This is however not the end of his journey with the SAF as he will be taking on a new role by providing his experience to help in the direction of training programmes.

Enlisting in 1976, CWO Joseph Koa’s journey in the SAF has been long and distinguished. Attaining the best recruit award in his company before deciding to sign up as a regular, he made the decision to go into the signals unit as a specialist, later transferring over to the infantry midway through his training course. He was then assigned to 1SIR, where he worked hard and became an Ops sergeant; this was during the span of 1977 to 1980.

The big change in CWO Koa’s life occurred when he was selected to become a sergeant in the then newly formed intelligence unit. This would encompass a large period of his career in the SAF, from 1980 to 2006. He spent 7 years in Indonesia, where he learned and honed the skills essential to his line of work; such as a more systematic and adaptive style of thinking. His ability to learn quickly eventually allowed him to reach the position of Intelligence Sergeant Major (2003 to 2006). In his own words “My time in intelligence forced me to learn skills in unfamiliar territory. In the process, I learned that thinking is an art onto itself and that the key is to find, and understand

the underlying motives behind every person’s actions. Learning these skills alone is a requirement for intelligence work. It is difficult, but I feel that the ability to better yourself is dependent on the motivation that you have to improve.”

After returning to the army in 2006 as the Sergeant Major of 9 Division(9 DIV), CWO Joseph Koa faced another great change having to readapt to a different lifestyle. The initial stages were challenging. However, his quick learning skills and his willingness to go hands on in order to ensure that he learnt with the men allowed him to push through. One of the things that helped him was his belief; to be respected for his actions and behaviour was much more important than being respected for his rank.

Towards the end of his tenure in the Intelligence service, CWO Joseph Koa became part of a special team formed by SWO Gungadaran (SAF Sergeant Major) and headed by BG Winston Toh (Comd 9 DIV) which headed a transformation study for Warrent Officers (WOSpecs) and specialists. The aim of the project was to create a more efficient system for the WOs and specialists. When he assumed the appointment of Sergeant Major of the Army (SMA), from 2008 to 2011, CWO Koa faced the monumental task of implementing the ideas that the team had come up with. The SMA and the role of sergeant majors is typically associated only with regimentation

and discipline. This was no longer the case. As SMA, he helped to change the views and systems that WOSpecs operated by, giving them clear roles and a sense of identity within the SAF. Another thing that was important to change was the relationship between WOSpecs and officers, focusing on a partnership that allowed an easier distribution of workload between the two. He shared his thoughts on the reasons he worked so hard for this as well “I believe that to be given an important task or appointment is a form of empowerment. This empowerment is useless if you do not take ownership of the system. To succeed, you must own the system with the power granted to you.”

CWO Joseph Koa’s active duty in the SAF ended with his service in the SAF as the SAF Sergeant Major, where he continued his previous work. He did however, find a bit of difficulty working in a tri-service force. This difficulty arose from the conflicting times and locations, as well as the unique service cultures of all three services. Despite the odds, he was able to overcome the challenge once again and push for change, continuing to do so to the end of his service. He has truly shown us that man can overcome any obstacle and that the biggest challenge lies within all of us. We would like to wish CWO Joseph Koa the very best as he transitions into his new life with the SAF.

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 426 27

Part Time Job,Full Time Commitment

Story by Leong Khee Shuen / Photographs contributed by LTA (NS) Eric Neo Say Wei

“National Service is important as it keeps our defence forces up to date, coherent and it keeps the country ready for any crisis that we encounter.” said LTA (NS) Neo Say Wei, Support Officer Commanding (OC) 793 Singapore Infantry Regiment (SIR).

LTA Neo is the CEO and founder of Neo & Partners Global. Despite his busy schedule, LTA Neo has completed 13 ICTs so far and he plans to continue with his NS term. “It’s a full time commitment, but a part time job. As we are working, we are also committed to the defence of the nation and if the button is pressed, we have to go.”

His inspiration to continue serving after his NS term came about during his tenth year of ICT with 650 SIR. “Back then the Chief of Defence Force, General Desmond Quek visited us and I remembered one statement that he made - it was a pity that we were standing down when we were at our peak, given that we had accumulated ten years of experience.

I thought that it made sense and since I enjoy National Service, I decided to extend and to share my experience in the new unit. So far from the two years of ICT with 793 SIR, I was able to guide them along and give them a fresh new perspective in National Service as NSmen.”

Enlisted in 1996, LTA Neo clinched the Platoon Best award during his BMT and went on to OCS. Following that, he continued his NSF term in 3 SIR as the Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGM) Platoon Commander (PC). He then went on to 650 SIR for his NS term before going on to 793 SIR as an OC of the Support Company, where he

was also awarded the SAF Good Service Medal and National Service Medal.

“Right now I am the Support Company’s OC and it is an interesting role. From an administration perspective, you have 5 different unique platoons from ATGM, Motar, Signals, Scout and Pioneers. It’s quite interesting in terms of positioning the entire Support Company as one big family and that is what my vision is in terms of my command philosophy - to inculcate the family culture into the Support Company.”

This year, LTA Neo was also actively involved in the recent NDP 2014 Parade where he was part of the NDP 2014 Safety Committee. This meant committing eight consecutive Saturdays right up to the actual day of the parade event. Moreover, LTA Neo also created a video dedicated to his fellow NSMen on their recent ICT this June, touching on the topics of teamwork and unity.

When asked on how he was able to juggle his commitments, LTA Neo said, “I attribute this to the support of the family and particularly for me, it is my spouse. She has been very supportive even though sometimes it’s asking a lot from her. You gain experience over time but more importantly I think the critical part is the family.”

LTA Neo with his daughter

The annual Singapore Armed Forces Sports Association (SAFSA) Awards Ceremony was held at the Chevrons Ballroom on 5 August. The aim of this annual ceremony is to recognise the performance and efforts of deserving athletes and officials within the SAF. The 184 SAF personnel who received their awards have represented the SAF or Singapore in national or international sports competitions and have displayed excellent conduct and sportsmanship on top of meritorious performances for their respective sports.

Among all the various awards are the highly coveted Best Sportsman, Best Sportswoman and Best Coach awards respectively. Deciding on the recipients has been especially tough, with so many promising candidates being shortlisted for these three coveted awards.

2WO Poh Lip Meng from Commandos, received this year’s Best Sportsman award. He specialises in shooting and represented Singapore in the 27th SEA Games in Myanmar where he clinched 11th and 8th placing in the Individual Men’s Shooting Category for the 10-metre Air Pistol and 50-metre Pistol shoots respectively.

The Best Sportswoman is LTA Nicole Tan Ling Chiao from the School Of Infantry(SOI). LTA Nicole is an avid shooter who also represented Singapore in the 27th SEA Games in Myanmar where she won the Gold

SAFSA Awards 2014Story by Ashwin Lee / Photography by Lim Wei Liang

and Silver awards in the 25-metre Women’s Sports Pistol shoot for the individual and team categories respectively.

This year’s Best Coach Award went to MAJ (Ret) Victor Sim from Headquarters Army Logistics Training Institute (HQ ALTI). Having played competitive badminton for nearly 50 years now, MAJ Sim decided to step into coaching, and has enjoyed great success at it. His badminton teams have most notably ended up being12-time Public Service Badminton Overall Champions and 19-time Champions for CSSCOM in the SAFSA Inter Formation Championships. When asked his secret on being such a successful coach, MAJ Sim replied. “Because of my experience, exposure and training, I am not only the Coach to my Team, but I am also their team-mate and also a player in their team. I have always felt that winning the SAFSA Coach of the Year award is no

individual accolade It is a glaring reflection of the efforts of my team and their belief in my guidance, without which, none of this would be possible.”

MAJ Sim emphasises that leading a healthy lifestyle is essential for one’s well-being. When asked how the SAF could better promote sports and healthy lifestyle to our service personnel, he noted, “I feel that SAF commanders on the ground can continue to lead by example to promote sports and healthy lifestyle by participating or supporting it openly. We all know that a strong sports culture in the SAF can have many positive effects as it help builds our soldiers character, enhance their health, create good bonding, help build teamwork and discipline. I’m glad that today’s Commanders are giving their support and that is important.”

MAJ(RET) Victor Sim(top), 2WO Poh Lip Meng(Mid) and LTA Nicole Tan(bottom)

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 428

New Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT) format. (Posted on 030914)

Bringing Our Army to our students!

070914Guardsmen, they prefer window seats.

Jason Ng - GUARDS:G- goU- upA- andR- repelD- downS- safely......

-------------------------------------------------

060914Army Drivers delivering rations

Jonathan Toh - They move The Singapore Army, driving long hours and makes sure rations are delivered on time!Go Transport!

-------------------------------------------------

050914Happy Teachers’ Day to all

Steve Luo Wee Phing - Military commanders are teachers in their own way, teaching, guiding and mentoring soldiers to become better individuals. Happy Teachers’ Day to all teachers in the school, in the field and camps!

-------------------------------------------------

050914 Happy Trainers’ Day

Gan Veronica - GOOD Trainers are well-respected !!! Hope NOT only imparting military skills to our soldiers BUT is also able to LOOK after the well-being and HEALTH of the trainees alike !!! Good Health will create Soldiers with high fighting spirit.

-------------------------------------------------

280814SAF medical team renders first aid in serious traffic accident

Jon K - And ladies and gentlemen, these are NSFs, 100% professional nevertheless. Serving with pride, honour, and integrity. With courage and conviction!

In Your

Chief Master Trainer at the

Motorized Infantry Training

Institute, MWO Chua Wah Yong From mischievous student to Master Trainer

thanks to his Teacher. When he was a secondary

school student, MWO Chua Wah Yong was a

mischievous student. This all changed when his

teacher, whom he greatly respected, inspired

him to change his thinking and behaviour.

(Posted on 060914)

Congratulations to all race winners!#Togetherwerun #OurSgArmy (Posted on 310814)

@oursingaporearmy

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SINGAPORE ARMYFACEBOOK

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ISSUE 228 OCTOBER 2014 - Ministry of Defence

Documents

Transcript of ISSUE 228 OCTOBER 2014 - Ministry of Defence