Download Oct 2001 issue

Happy 33rd Birthday, RSAF!RSAF turns 33 and celebrates with an Open House in PLAB ... Page 8-9

RSAF Salutes Singapore’s 36th BirthdayAn RSAF look at NDP 2001 ... 2-13

Advanced Diploma in Aerospace Engineering and Management for RSAF Warrant Officers and SpecialistsThe next level of co-operation between RSAF and Singapore Polytechnic ... Page 5

The opinion and views are those expressed by the writers and do

not necessarily reflect theofficial views of the RSAF or the Ministry of Defence. The material

in Air Force News is not to be reproduced in whole or in part

without the written consent of the Republic of Singapore Air Force.

AIR FORCE NEWSMANAGEMENT

COMMITTEE

ChairmanCOL Peter Wee

MembersLTC Harbajan SinghLTC Tan Wong Tong

LTC Clifford TanMAJ Lim Boon HowMAJ Anthony Lim

MAJ SarojanieMAJ Loke Kum SengMAJ Low Kheng Guat

Mrs Marian TangMs Felicia Gwee

Ms Lim Siew Hiang

EDITORIAL BOARD

EditorLTC Harbajan Singh

Asst EditorMiss Germaine Ho

Staff WriterYe Zhen

PhotographerTony Tan Wee Tong

Appreciation

Air Force News extends its appreciation to COL Bernard Toh, LTC Ng Heng Chong and LTC Tan Woo Sing for their invaluable contributions over the past few years and wish them well in their future endeavours. Air Force News also welcomes COL Peter Wee as the new Chairman, LTC Harbajan Singh as the new Editor, MAJ Low Kheng Guat from AMD and MAJ Anthony Lim from Paya Lebar Air Base into the Editorial Board.


RSAF Salutes Singapore’s 36th BirthdayAn RSAF look at NDP 2001 ... Page 12-13


National D

ay Parade 2001

Photo courtesy of APU

2 Air Force News

C o n t e n t s

2 Air Force News

VISITS

Introductory Visit by Vice Commander, Pacific Air Forces

Lieutenant-General (LG) Lansford E. Trapp, Vice Commander of the Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) made an introductory visit to Singapore from 2 to 4 Aug 2001. As part of the programme, he called on Chief of Air Force, Brigadier-General (BG) Lim Kim Choon on 3 August 2001 at MINDEF.

PACAF HQ is located in Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii, and comprises the 5th Air Force (Yokota Air Base, Japan), 7th Air Force (Osan Air Base, South Korea), 11th Air Force (Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska) and 13th Air Force (Anderson Air Force Base, Guam).

The RSAF interacts with PACAF regularly through Exercise Commando Sling, Cope Thunder, Cope Tiger, PACAF-RSAF Search-and-Rescue programme as well as various conferences and seminars. The 497th Combat Training Squadron stationed in Singapore (PLAB) also comes under the command of the 13th Air Force, PACAF.

Mr. J. Woodfin "Woody" Thomas, Mayor of Litchfield, Mr John Keegan, Mayor of Peoria, Mr Teddy Lowe Hartley, Washington Committee and Mr Bobby Jack Stewart, Honorary Commander 428th Fighter Squadron (Clovis) were in Singapore from 4 to 10 Aug 2001. They are very intimately involved in the RSAF Peace Carvin II and III programmes and were in town under the invitation of the RSAF.

As part of their itinerary, they called on Minister of State for Defence and Information and the Arts, Mr David

Lim and Chief of Air Force, Brigadier-General (BG) Lim Kim Choon on 7 August 2001 at MINDEF. During their stay, they had the opportunity to tour Tengah Air Base, and the Air Force Museum. At Tengah Air Base, they visited 140 SQN and the Air Combat Manoeuvring Instrumentation (ACMI) system. The dignitaries also joined in our nation’s birthday celebrations, attending the National Day Parade at the National Stadium on 9 Aug 2001.

US Dignitaries come to town!

Mr John Keegan, Mayor of Peoria (far left) and Mr J. Woodfin “Woody” Thomas, Mayor of Litchfield (second from left) in a hearty discussion with MOS and CAF.

Visits2 US Dignitaries come to town!


3 Chief of Air Force, Royal Malaysian Air Force

Exercises4 STARDEX 2001

SINGKIWI 2001

Peace Carvin II does the RSAF proud!

Feature5 Advanced Diploma in Aerospace

Engineering and Management for RSAF Warrant Officers and Specialists

Local News6 PSC Scholars visit PLAB

SAF-NCC Familiarisation Visit to Air Force School

7 2PS(D) visits CAB

Spreading the Air Force Vision

Cover Story8-9 Happy 33rd Birthday, RSAF!

Awards/Graduations10 Future Leaders - SAF Scholarship

Award Recipients

New Challenges for 33 RSAF officers

Leaders of men - 32 newly commissioned RSAF Officers

11 RSAF Officers graduate from Singapore Command & Staff College

Long Service and Tour Awards

RSAF Best Airman Awards 2001

Feature12-13

RSAF Salutes Singapore's 36th Birthday

Local News14 In Pursuit of Total Organisational

Excellence

SBAB organises Presidential Garden Reception at Istana

Buzz around the Bases15 Changes of Command & Appointments

RSAF Veteran Warrant Officers' get-together

Pictorial16 National Day Parade 2001

BUZZ AROUND THE BASES

Air Force News 15

The Formation Warrant Officers Conference (FWC) organised the 1st RSAF Warrant Officer veterans' get-together at the Paya Lebar Air Base Officers' Mess on the 11 Jul 2001. It was a special occasion as almost 100 veterans and serving WOs got together to reminisce about the old days and good times. The oldest veteran who attended the get-together was 84-year-old 1WO (RET) Lum Wing Ying. He regaled all with his past exploits and experiences.

The veterans also took the opportunity to tour the new Air Force Museum and view the exhibits, some of which had been contributed by them. All agreed that the session was very meaningful and expressed their desire for more of such get-togethers. The FWC has confirmed its plan of future bi-yearly get-togethers, the next in Feb 2002.


The RSAF arm of the Veterans' League was formed in 1999 to provide opportunities for members to meet regularly through activities and special occasions like RSAF Day celebrations, with the objective of promoting and fostering the spirit of camaraderie associated with the military profession. The Chairman of the RSAF Veterans' League is LTC (RET) De Souza.

For more information on the RSAF Veterans’ League, please call Ms Stephanie/Mr Andre at 3779864/859 (Fax No: 3779855) or write to:

SAF Veterans' LeagueSAFRA National Service Association5200 Jalan Bukit Merah Singapore 159468

Head, Air Manpower - 16 July 2001Incoming: COL Peter WeeOutgoing: COL Bernard Toh

Deputy Head, Air Intelligence Department - 4 Aug 2001Incoming: LTC Tam Peng Yew

Commander, Air Defence Brigade - 27 Aug 2001Incoming: COL Tan Meng DuiOutgoing: COL Chua Teck Seng Richard

Deputy Head, Air Operations Department - 23 Sep 2001Incoming: LTC Nee Bor WeiOutgoing: COL Chan Peng Heong Daniel

Changes of Senior Appointments in RSAF

140 SQN - 9 July 2001Incoming CO: MAJ Lim Yeong KiatOutgoing CO: LTC Leong Chun Yu

112 SQN - 12 July 2001Incoming CO: MAJ Gan Keng SoonOutgoing CO: LTC Lui Geoffrey

203 SQN - 4 Aug 2001Incoming CO: MAJ Soh Fong JinOutgoing CO: LTC Tam Peng Yew

141 SQN - 29 Aug 2001Incoming CO: LTC Teoh Keng Hin KevinOutgoing CO: LTC Hing Chow Huat Albert

127 SQN - 7 Sep 2001Incoming CO: LTC Yong EdwardOutgoing CO: LTC Cheong Hon Seng

Changes of Command

Our RSAF Warrant Officer veterans and serving Warrant Officers posing together in the Air Force Museum.

The perfect place to reminisce about the old days – The Paya Lebar Air Base Officers’ Mess.

Air Force News 3

VISITS

The Chief of the Royal Malaysian Air Force, General (GEN) Dato' Haji Suleiman Bin Mahmud arrived in Singapore on an introductory visit on 13 Sep 2001. GEN Suleiman assumed his current appointment on 11 Jun 2001.

During his two-day visit, GEN Suleiman called on the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Dr Tony Tan, Chief of Defence Force, Lieutenant-General Lim Chuan Poh, and Chief of Air Force, Brigadier-General Lim Kim Choon.

As part of the programme, GEN Suleiman was introduced to the G-Flight Environment Trainer (G-FET) at the Aeromedical Centre and also toured Tengah Air Base. During his visit to Tengah Air Base, GEN Suleiman was briefed on the roles of the RSAF, visited the Air Combat Manoeuvring Instrumentation (ACMI) system and also viewed an array of RSAF aircraft and air defence systems. The ACMI system, is used by the RSAF for flight de-briefing and to enhance safety awareness in pilots.

The visit was part of the regular interaction programme between the Republic of Singapore Air Force and the Royal Malaysian Air Force and is an affirmation of the warm ties between the 2 air forces. Both air forces actively participate in FPDA organised exercises such as STARDEX, FLYING FISH and ADEX.

Chief of Air Force, Royal Malaysian Air Force

GEN Suleiman (left) and CAF (right) in the CAF reception room.

GEN Suleiman being introduced to the controls of the F-5 while COL Richard Lim looks on.

Watching a video of the Hypobaric Chamber in the Aeromedical Centre.

4 Air Force News

EXERCISE

An Air Education and Training Command (AETC) Operational Readiness Inspection (ORI) was conducted on 56th Fighter Wing (FW) at Luke Air Force Base in April 2001. The ORI is used by the United States Air Force (USAF) every two to three years to evaluate its units on how well its personnel respond, employ forces and provide mission support. Peace Carvin II (PC II) managed to achieve many outstanding and excellent ratings in various aspects of the inspection and earned an overall Outstanding rating.

Each unit including PC II, was evaluated separately on its operational readiness capability. The ORI also focuses on how

Peace Carvin II does the RSAF proud!effectively and safely a unit accomplishes its assigned mission. Other aspects of focus include the unit’s compliance with laws, instructions, regulations and technical orders. Emphasis on detection and prevention of fraud waste and abuse is another key area of the ORI.

This inspection provided PC II with an excellent opportunity to benchmark itself against the world’s leading air force. The Outstanding rating awarded during this inspection is an indication that the RSAF is moving a step closer to its vision of “World Class People, First Class Air Force”

STARDEX 2001

SINGKIWI 2001

Ex STARDEX, jointly hosted by Malaysia and Singapore, was conducted between 3 to 15 Sep 2001 in the airspace and territorial waters of Peninsular Malaysia and the South China Sea. The 13-day multilateral exercise involved members of the Five Power Defence Arrangement (FPDA), comprising Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore and the United Kingdom. This year saw the participation of 26 ships, including one submarine, and 67 aircraft. The RSAF participated in STARDEX with 28 aircraft and about 500 personnel.

The closing ceremony held on 15 Sep 2001 at Royal Malaysian Air Force base in Subang, was officiated by Chief

A bilateral exercise with the Kiwis was conducted between 27 Aug to 24 Sep 2001. Exercise SINGKIWI, led by LTC Richard Lam from the RSAF, saw the participation of the RSAF and the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) in the airspace of Singapore. The main objectives of the exercise was to conduct a Dissimilar Air Combat Tactics (DACT) programme in order to hone the pilots' skill, to provide RNZAF pilots with air-to-air refuelling currency training with the C-130s and to enhance inter-operability and foster good bilateral relations between the two air forces.

of Defence Force, Lieutenant-General (LG) Lim Chuan Poh. In his closing address, LG Lim highlighted the importance of co-operation and interaction between members as FPDA enters into her 30th year. “What we have done in Ex STARDEX 01 very clearly reflects the progress that we have made in FPDA in the last 30 years. It is not just about military exercises and formal agreements, it is also about people and friendships.”

Started in 1999, the main objective of STARDEX was to exercise FPDA forces in the conduct of combined and joint maritime and air operations in a multi-threat and limited conflict scenario.

Flight-Lieutenant Malcolm Campbell, a 25-year-old Kiwi pilot, was glad that he was part of the exercise, especially as it was the last one. He states, “The RSAF pilots are very professional and capable in the air. There is a lot of variety in this exercise because we practise with so many RSAF aircraft types. I'm really impressed with the A4-SUs."

The RSAF and Kiwi pilots striking a pose together.

It is not all work and no play... Officers from the two forces engaged in friendly banter.

Commander IADS, AVM K.F Clarke (left) and CDF, LG Lim (right) at the closing ceremony.

Air Force News 5

FEATURE

Knowledge is power. Our RSAF Warrant Officers and Specialists now have the chance to acquire new skills and knowledge with the introduction of an Advanced Diploma in Aerospace Engineering and Management (AAEM). Jointly developed by the RSAF and Singapore Polytechnic, this course reflects RSAF’s commitment to raise the competency and professionalism of our RSAF personnel.

A Memorandum of Co-operation signing ceremony

The RSAF and Singapore Polytechnic signed a Memorandum of Co-operation (MOC) for the AAEM on 20 July 2001. The MOC signing ceremony, which took place in Singapore Polytechnic and was witnessed by Chief of Air Force, Brigadier-General Lim Kim Choon, and the Principal of Singapore Polytechnic, Mr Low Wong Fook.

18 RSAF Warrant Officers are attending this inaugural one-year, full-time course which began in July 2001. They are sponsored under the Singapore Armed Force's Continuous Learning Academic Sponsorship Scheme (CLASS), as part of the initiative under The Partnership for Warrant Officers and Specialists.

Course Objectives

The Advanced Diploma in Aerospace Engineering & Management aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills to:

• Understand the roles of the different specialist branches of aircraft engineering

• Understand the ISO Quality Standard procedures• Demonstrate analytical and problem-solving skills• Communicate effectively on technical and

management matters• Initiate & implement safe operating procedures• Initiate & implement investigative procedures for

failure analysis• Initiate & execute project implementation

The MOC signing ceremony witnessed by CAF, BG Lim Kim Choon (left) and Mr Low (right).

CAF, BG Lim Kim Choon (sitting, centre) with the 18 Warrant Officers.

" We have 6 modules this semester, consisting 18 hours of lessons a week. We only attend classes three days a week, which might sound like a holiday to you, but that is not really the case. A lot of time has to be spent in the library, rummaging through books. Most of us have been out of touch academically for about twenty years now and it really is time for us to pick up where we left off. It also gives us a chance to keep ourselves abreast with current technology. If we just sit back and be complacent with what we are given, we are not exploiting the opportunities available. So time has to be spent doing research so we can learn as much as possible from this course."

" I really appreciate this course and I hope the RSAF will continue to have such courses for us. I believe it is putting the RSAF in the right direction since we are given a chance to learn and then contribute what we have learnt to the RSAF."

1WO Tan Wee Seng,a Senior Technician with ALS-TASC.

MWO Andrew Koh Yong Meng, a Senior Technician with ALS-PLAB.

Feedback from our RSAF Warrant Officers

Advanced Diploma in Aerospace Engineering and Management for RSAF Warrant Officers

and Specialists

STRAP LINE

6 Air Force News

LOCAL NEWS

PSC Scholars visit PLAB

As part of the SAF-NCC Affiliation Scheme, approximately 120 secondary school principals, teachers and National Cadet Corps (NCC) Training Officers visited Air Force School on 25 Aug 2001. The visit was hosted by Minister of State for Defence and Information and the Arts, Mr David Lim.


As part of their pre-course departure programme, 124 Public Service Commission (PSC) Scholars had the opportunity to visit Paya Lebar Air Base on 24 Jul 2001. The visit was hosted by COMD PLAB, COL Voon Tse-Chow.

During the visit, the PSC Scholars were briefed on the missions of the SAF and RSAF. The programme included

familiarisation flights on the C-130 and visits to the Air Force Museum and the Radar and Tower Simulator in Air Force School.

The Scholars left the Base with a much better understanding of the SAF & RSAF.

The programme included a tour of the Air Force School and the newly-opened Air Force Museum and a familiarisation flight on board the Chinook helicopter.

This annual visit aims to provide the school principals and teachers with a better understanding of SAF's capabilities, so as to enable them to become more confident mentors to their cadets.

2WO Foo giving the scholars an insight into the history and use of the Bloodhound missile (foreground). Visitors at the state-of-the-art Tower Simulator.

MOS, Mr David Lim and DPA, COL Bernard Toh, interacting with the visitors.

Visitors viewing the avionics console of a mock-up F-16 cockpit.

COMD AFS, COL Joe Kua (third from left) introducing various aircraft displays in the outdoor gallery.

LOCAL NEWS

Air Force News 7

Second Permanent Secretary (Defence), Mr Peter Ong made an introductory visit to Changi Air Base (CAB) on 7 Aug 2001. COMD, CAB, COL Kwan Yue hosted this visit.

As part of the programme, Mr Ong was briefed on the operations of the base and went on a familiarisation flight on the Fokker 50 Maritime Patrol Aircraft. During the flight,

2PS (D) visits CAB

2PS (D), Mr Peter Ong in the Meet-the-People session with CAB personnel.

Mr Ong witnessed some of the capabilities of Maritime Air Surveillance. Prior to leaving the base, Mr Ong had the opportunity of meeting the officers and men of the Base. The meeting allowed Mr Ong to listen to their views and also the opportunity to better explain some recent initiatives of MINDEF/SAF.

The Air Force 21 vision of " World Class People, First Class Air Force" was first launched in the year 2000. To spread the vision to all RSAF units and to ensure that senior officers are adequately informed and prepared to discuss the vision with their men, Vision Deployment Workshops are being conducted. Organised for all Commanders and Branch Heads, the workshops are planned specifically to inculcate participants with the knowledge of deploying the Air Force 21 vision at their respective units and work centres. Through experimentation and interaction, the participants will also learn the key precepts of a 'Learning Organisation', team cohesiveness and the Vision Deployment Matrix.

Each workshop is conducted over a three-day period at Air Force School. The 1st workshop was held on 27 June 2001 and the last will be conducted in March 2002.

For more information on the Air Force 21 workshops, please check out the Air Force Intranet website: http://rsafhome.rsaf.mindef/rsaf/index.htm. Servicemen may also give their comments at the discussion forum in the site.

Spreading the Air Force Vision....

Mr Ong posing with our RSAF personnel.

The Air Force 21 workshop in progress.

COVER STORY

8 Air Force News

Happy 33rd Birthday, RSAF! The RSAF turned 33 on 1 Sep 2001 and commemorated

the occasion with a Parade at the Air Force School, an Open House at Paya Lebar Air Base and a Walk-a-Jog at Marina South.

" We must strive to put in our very best into our daily activities so as to make our vision for the Air Force a reality." This message was brought across to the audience at the RSAF Day Parade, by Chief of Air Force, BG Lim Kim Choon. In his speech, he also focused on issues such as enhancing the RSAF's operational capabilities and developing human resources through a better career management system.

The second segment of the 33rd anniversary celebrations was the 2-day RSAF Open House held at Paya Lebar Air Base. About 200 grassroots leaders, hosted by MOS, Mr David Lim, were also invited to the air base to witness the opening ceremony of the Open House. This serves to familiarise the community with the RSAF's mission and develop relations with the community leaders so they can keep abreast with the organisation's technological changes. "We want to project to the public that the Air Force is a professional organisation, readily capable of defending our country." said COL Voon Tse Chow, Commander PLAB. "We would also like the public to come and get a feel of the air base, interact with RSAF personnel and also get in touch with RSAF technology, so that they will understand the Air Force better. This experience doesn't come very often, so we urge the public to come and have an eye-opening experience."

The Open House was indeed a visual treat for the public as it attracted more than 110, 000 visitors over 3 days. COL Voon added, "This is a very large number of people considering that the Open House was open on two days for the public and one preview day for schools and uniformed groups." New additions to the static display which attracted

Doing his part for charity-MOS, Mr David Lim at the Officers’ Wives Club souvenir booth.

Grassroots leaders gathered at the opening ceremony for the Open House, officiated by Mr David Lim.

COVER STORY

Air Force News 9

Happy 33rd Birthday, RSAF!

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large crowds this year included the KC-135 aerial tanker and the CH-47 Chinook helicopter.

The SAF Officers' Wives Club sat up a booth at the Open House selling books and exquisite RSAF souvenirs. Through their efforts they raised $93, 000.00 for the Movement for the Intellectually Disabled of Singapore (MINDS) and the SAF Benevolent Fund.

For LTC Lua Chiew Leong, Chairman of the RSAF Open House 2001, “even torrential rain did not stop the Open House from attracting the public. The rain interrupted the programme for a short while but that did not dampen the spirit and enthusiasm of the crowd." The organisers even had to turn away the crowd who were still trying to queue up at nightfall.

The last segment was the RSAF Charity Walk-a-Jog at Marina South on 22 Sep 2001. The Guest of Honour, Chief of Air Force, BG Lim Kim Choon, was there to flag off the 3.5 km walk-a-jog. The event raised $186, 739.00. The money raised has been donated to the Singapore Red Cross Society and the SAF Benevolent Fund.

The RSAF parade contingent. “Happy birthday to you, RSAF!”

CAF flagging off the Walk-a-Jog.

10 Air Force News

AWARDS/GRADUATIONS

The 3/2001 Appointment Certificate Presentation Ceremony (ACPC) was held at the Paya Lebar Officers' Mess on

New Challenges for 33 RSAF officers 1 Aug 2001. Chief of Air Force, BG Lim Kim Choon, presented swords and certificates of appointment to 33 graduates from the following courses: 102nd Fighter Wing Course, 104th Fighter Wing Course, 106th Transport Wing Course, 7th WSO (C3) Course, 4th NSF WSO (UAV) Course, 5th REG WSO (UAV) Course, 8th WSO (ADA) Course and 27th AMEO Course. Air Force News congratulates the following best trainees:

Leaders of men – 32 newly-commissioned RSAF officers

"I'm very excited. It's going to be a challenging career for me."

- Marcel Xu Geyuan

Marcel Xu Geyuan is enthusiastic about his future with the RSAF. He was one of two RSAF Officer Cadets (OCTs) who was awarded the prestigious SAF Overseas Scholarship (SAFOS) by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Dr Tony Tan, in a ceremony at the Temasek Club on 11 Aug 2001. OCT Xu will be studying Electrical Engineering at Cornell University, USA.

Future Leaders – SAF Scholarship Award Recipients

Four other RSAF OCTs were also awarded the SAF Merit Scholarship (SMS) by Minister for Education and Second Minister for Defence, Rear-Admiral (NS) Teo Chee Hean on 13 Aug 2001 at the Temasek Club.

OCT Benjamin Fu Rentai, one of the four SAF Merit Scholars, will be studying Engineering at Imperial College, UK. He credits his parents for winning the award. "When I was young, my parents encouraged me to study as hard as possible. So I think getting good academic results had a lot to do with me winning this scholarship. It attests to the hard work that I have put in."

104th Fighter Wing Course – LTA Lee Wei Loong Ray106th Transport Wing Course – LTA Chew Chuen Hee7th WSO (C3) Course – 2LT Koh Kuan Ming Dominic5th REG WSO (UAV) Course – 2LT Tang Poh San8th WSO (ADA) Course – LTA Goh Meng Kiat

CAF, BG Lim Kim Choon (sitting, centre) with the newly-appointed officers.

"SAFTI's motto is ‘To lead, to excel, and to overcome’. This is how you should perform your duties as SAF officers." urged Deputy Prime Minister, Brigadier-General (NS) Lee Hsien Loong at the Officer Cadet Course Commissioning Parade on 29 Jul 2001 at SAFTI MI. During the parade, a total of 32 RSAF OCTs were appointed as officers.

During the parade, DPM Lee presented ceremonial swords to seven Sword of Honour winners, two of whom were from the RSAF. OCT Lok Choon Sheng Sam, one of the RSAF Sword of Honour recipients, was grateful for the recognition. He states, "I would like to thank my course-mates for supporting and encouraging me in my weaker areas. Without them and my instructors, I would not be where I am right now."

Our RSAF SOH winners, OCT Dominic Nicholas (left) and OCT Sam (right).

OCT Marcel and mother posing with DPM. OCT Amerson and family posing with DPM.Our SAF Merit Scolars from left; OCT Benjamin, OCT Minghao and OCT Evelyn.

Air Force News 11

AWARDS/GRADUATIONS

RSAF Best Airman Awards 2001The Best Airman Award is presented annually to

outstanding RSAF servicemen of rank 1SG and below. It is given to recognise outstanding performances and to inspire a sense of professionalism amongst all airmen in the RSAF. The recipients are selected for demonstrating exemplary conduct, having a high standard of performance, possessing professional knowledge and safety awareness and being of good turnout and bearing.

The winners for 2001 are:• Best Technical Specialist - 2SG Boo Chue Wee, Peace Carvin 3• Best Combat Support Specialist - CPL Dominic

Li De - Lun, 3 DA BN - ADSD• Best Air Crew Specialist - 1SG Chan Yang Loong,

122SQN - PLAB• Best Air Operations Systems Specialist - 2SG Heng Chiang How,

201SQN - ADSD• Best Air Defence Systems Specialist - 1SG Soh Tiam Kee,

163 SQN, ADSD• Best Logistics Support Specialist - 1SG Sankaran Rajoo,

ALS - SBAB• Best Field Defence Specialist - 3SG Soon Yong Yi,

18DA BN - ADSD

• Best Service Support Specialist - 3SG Ho Yi Xian, HQ PLAB

Recognition is what the award means to CPL Dominic Li De-Lun. He felt that his fellow teammates played a big role in his achievement. He also added that assistance and co-operation by all, regardless of task and place of duty, is the key to success. "A positive work attitude is all it takes to get the job done and done well."

Each of the recipients was presented with a plaque and a certificate of commendation by CAF, BG Lim Kim Choon, at the RSAF Day Parade held at Air Force School on 1 Sep 2001. Air Force News extends their heartiest congratulations to the winners.

21 RSAF officers graduated from the 32nd Command and Staff Course (CSC) in a ceremony at the Istana on 7 Sep 2001. Minister of State for Defence and Information and the Arts, Mr David Lim, presented certificates of graduation to 80 officers at the ceremony.

The Top Air Force Graduate, MAJ Paul Sung

Kong Ming, a F-16 pilot and an ex-member of the elite RSAF aerobatics team, the Black Knights, is from Tengah Air Base. The 36-year-old felt that the course had expanded his knowledge base and social capital. “Interacting with participants from the other services helps to build social cohesion within SAF. We also go beyond international and national boundaries by interacting with foreign officers and assimilating their ideas.“

The CSC is the highest level of formal military education offered in Singapore. Lasting eight months, the CSC prepares officers to take on senior command and staff appointments in the SAF. Air Force News congratulates MAJ Paul on his achievement!

RSAF Officers graduate from Singapore Command

& Staff College 200 personnel attended the

RSAF Long Service and Tour Awards presentation ceremony on 13 Sep 2001 at the Air Force School auditorium. The awards were presented by Chief of Air Force, BG Lim Kim Choon. The Long Service Award was introduced in 1995 to accord recognition to civil servants who have served over a continuous period of 10 years.

Long Service Awards were presented to servicemen who had served in the organisation for 25 years and more and to LTCs and above, regardless of their years of service. Presentation of awards to other eligible servicemen were decentralised and the awards were presented by the respective Commanders / Department Heads.

The categories and value of awards are as follows: 10 yrs ($200), 15 yrs ($300), 20 yrs ($500), 25 yrs ($1000) and thereafter, $1000 for every 5 years. Recipients also had the option of receiving their awards in the form of cash or vouchers.

The Tour Award is given to WOSA in recognition and appreciation for their services to MINDEF. The award is in the form of a tour valued up to $2500 and $1500 for married and single personnel respectively. For 2001, 34 servicemen from the RSAF were selected for the award.

2WO Willy Tay, one of the Tour Award recipients, is deeply honoured and grateful to MINDEF. "I feel that this award encourages unswerving dedication from long-serving servicemen. Furthermore, it is also gives MINDEF a chance to express their gratitude to the serviceman's family."

Long Service & Tour Awards

The BEST Airmen with CAF (centre)- From left: 1SG Soh, 1SG Chan, 2SG Heng, 3SG Soon, CPL Dominic and 3SG Ho.

12 Air Force News

FEATURE

RSAF Salutes Singapore’s 36th BirthdayThe first National Day Parade of the new millennium

was nothing short of a visual spectacle. Performers donned costumes of every hue and shade, transforming the field of the National Stadium into a swirling technicoloured sea. The Red Lions parachute-display team leapt from a height of 1,500m, canopies silhouetted against the darkened skies and floated to earth with cold fireworks bursting from their shoes. Aerial gymnasts glided effortlessly and ballet in the air while harnessed to giant helium-filled balloons, hovering just metres above the spectators. The 60,000 strong audience was kept spellbound by the finale of synchronised fireworks display and with each explosion of colourful patterns of light into the night, shrills of excitement reverberated around the stadium.

The RSAF has always been an integral part of the National Day Parade celebrations and this year was no exception. LTC John Tan, Chairman of Air Participation, is a seasoned coordinator of aerial displays for NDP and this was his third time participating in the Parade. Being involved in the Parade never failed to give LTC Tan a sense of accomplishment as interaction with participants from RSAF units, other services and civilians made the job more challenging. According to LTC Tan, "It is the interaction bit that makes the job that much more interesting!"

For the first time, a Chinook helicopter towed the 18m-by-27m state flag across the sky accompanied by

Spectacular, spectacular: Bomb burst display.

This is the first time the Chinook is flying the state flag. The RSAF GOH contingent was led by MAJ Lee Hong Joo.

Air Force News 13

FEATURE

RSAF Salutes Singapore’s 36th Birthday

two Super Puma helicopters, to the voices in the stadium singing the National Anthem. LTC Cheong Hon Seng, the flight lead for the state flag flypast, has ample experience in NDP air participation. "Even though I have participated 4 times, I must say that each year is different. My squadron and I feel very excited and honoured to play such a big role for this year's National Day Parade."

Though the solemn procedure lasted a few minutes, it meant months of practice for CPT Christine Sim, the first female to take part in the State Flag Flypast. CPT Sim co-piloted the Super Puma, which flanked the right of the Chinook. "We started the rehearsals in late June and every weekend we had to rehearse in the air,” said CPT Sim. Honoured to be part of the Parade, CPT Sim added, "Since the Super Puma is not flying the state flag this year, so the next best thing is to fly the escort aircraft."

After the state flag flypast, five A4-SU and three F-16 fighter jets made their approach towards the grandstand in a double ‘Arrow’ formation. As part of the Aerial Salute to the President, the A4-SUs soared towards the grandstand with a stunning “Bomb Burst” display. The fighter jets then made a re-entrance towards the end of the Parade segment, flying from left to right with reference from the grandstand and manoeuvred a “Fan Break” whilst the crowd roared with excitement.

The military contingents, including the RSAF contingent, formed a unique "NDP 2001" which lasted throughout the rest of the parade. The RSAF marching contingent comprised personnel from TAB, TASC and ALD.

MAJ Ernest Ng, the Contingent Commander from TAB, remarked that the contingent did very well in terms of consistency and professionalism. "The RSAF contingent is partially made up of NSmen. I was impressed with their dedication during their rehearsals, more so as they are held over the weekends. I must say they performed very smartly." The RSAF Guard-of-Honour contingent also did well as they executed a three-round "Feu de Joie" to signal the festive mood of the parade. COL Richard Chua Teck Seng, Chairman of Parade and Ceremonies committee, felt that the RSAF segments of NDP were performed seamlessly. "We wanted this year's NDP to be traditional and yet innovative, which was why the parade contingents formed the "NDP 2001" phrase and the "Feu de Joie" integration with the ceremonial guns. Overall I must say that it was a remarkable performance." Kudos to all RSAF participants in NDP!

The RSAF military contingent in action!

Fighter jets performing a ‘Fan Burst’

14 Air Force News

LOCAL NEWS

In Pursuit of Total Organisational Excellence...

Total Organisational Excellence (TOE) is a process of continuous improvement and innovation in order for an organisation to achieve its vision. To enable practitioners of TOE to share their knowledge and ideas, MINDEF Service Quality Office organised an inaugural Total Organisational Excellence seminar on 14 July 2001 at MINDEF. The event was graced by Second Permanent Secretary (Defence), Mr Peter Ong.

ALS-PLAB, winner of the 2000 MINDEF Excellence Award (MEA), had the opportunity to share their achievements on their Total Organisational (Business) Excellence through a video and slide presentation. The presentation highlighted

About 1000 guests from MINDEF and the SAF attended the Presidential Garden Reception held at the Istana on 22 July 2001. The reception hosted by President S.R. Nathan was in recognition of the contributions by MINDEF and SAF personnel to the defence of Singapore. This year's Presidential Garden Reception was organised by Sembawang Air Base.

The guests comprised Regulars, Full-time National Servicemen and Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen), both Officers & Warrant Officers and Specialists (WOSA) from the Army, Navy and Air Force. Amongst the guests were NSmen of the Year award winners; NSmen with outstanding performances during In-Camp Training; active servicemen who have performed well in their training; and those who had made significant contributions to the SAF.


how ALS-PLAB embarked on its business excellence journey and how its emphasis on innovation, knowledge management and people helped to achieve the MEA. The speaker for ALS-PLAB, LTC Lua Chiew Leong (right picture), further elaborated that in order to reach the apex of quality management, they adopted a more proactive approach towards its business and services by internally assessing themselves using the MEA criteria, motivation of staff and building a shared vision of business excellence.

This seminar served to reflect SAF's drive towards world class excellence and its aim to adopt the best practices in various business excellence models.

2PS(D), Mr Peter Ong and the Q&A panel.

The President with his guests at the Istana.

2 Air Force News

C o n t e n t s

2 Air Force News

VISITS


Lieutenant-General (LG) Lansford E. Trapp, Vice Commander of the Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) made an introductory visit to Singapore from 2 to 4 Aug 2001. As part of the programme, he called on Chief of Air Force, Brigadier-General (BG) Lim Kim Choon on 3 August 2001 at MINDEF.

PACAF HQ is located in Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii, and comprises the 5th Air Force (Yokota Air Base, Japan), 7th Air Force (Osan Air Base, South Korea), 11th Air Force (Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska) and 13th Air Force (Anderson Air Force Base, Guam).

The RSAF interacts with PACAF regularly through Exercise Commando Sling, Cope Thunder, Cope Tiger, PACAF-RSAF Search-and-Rescue programme as well as various conferences and seminars. The 497th Combat Training Squadron stationed in Singapore (PLAB) also comes under the command of the 13th Air Force, PACAF.

Mr. J. Woodfin "Woody" Thomas, Mayor of Litchfield, Mr John Keegan, Mayor of Peoria, Mr Teddy Lowe Hartley, Washington Committee and Mr Bobby Jack Stewart, Honorary Commander 428th Fighter Squadron (Clovis) were in Singapore from 4 to 10 Aug 2001. They are very intimately involved in the RSAF Peace Carvin II and III programmes and were in town under the invitation of the RSAF.

As part of their itinerary, they called on Minister of State for Defence and Information and the Arts, Mr David

Lim and Chief of Air Force, Brigadier-General (BG) Lim Kim Choon on 7 August 2001 at MINDEF. During their stay, they had the opportunity to tour Tengah Air Base, and the Air Force Museum. At Tengah Air Base, they visited 140 SQN and the Air Combat Manoeuvring Instrumentation (ACMI) system. The dignitaries also joined in our nation’s birthday celebrations, attending the National Day Parade at the National Stadium on 9 Aug 2001.

US Dignitaries come to town!

Mr John Keegan, Mayor of Peoria (far left) and Mr J. Woodfin “Woody” Thomas, Mayor of Litchfield (second from left) in a hearty discussion with MOS and CAF.

Visits2 US Dignitaries come to town!


3 Chief of Air Force, Royal Malaysian Air Force

Exercises4 STARDEX 2001

SINGKIWI 2001

Peace Carvin II does the RSAF proud!

Feature5 Advanced Diploma in Aerospace

Engineering and Management for RSAF Warrant Officers and Specialists

Local News6 PSC Scholars visit PLAB


7 2PS(D) visits CAB

Spreading the Air Force Vision

Cover Story8-9 Happy 33rd Birthday, RSAF!

Awards/Graduations10 Future Leaders - SAF Scholarship

Award Recipients

New Challenges for 33 RSAF officers

Leaders of men - 32 newly commissioned RSAF Officers

11 RSAF Officers graduate from Singapore Command & Staff College

Long Service and Tour Awards

RSAF Best Airman Awards 2001

Feature12-13

RSAF Salutes Singapore's 36th Birthday

Local News14 In Pursuit of Total Organisational

Excellence


Buzz around the Bases15 Changes of Command & Appointments


Pictorial16 National Day Parade 2001

BUZZ AROUND THE BASES

Air Force News 15

The Formation Warrant Officers Conference (FWC) organised the 1st RSAF Warrant Officer veterans' get-together at the Paya Lebar Air Base Officers' Mess on the 11 Jul 2001. It was a special occasion as almost 100 veterans and serving WOs got together to reminisce about the old days and good times. The oldest veteran who attended the get-together was 84-year-old 1WO (RET) Lum Wing Ying. He regaled all with his past exploits and experiences.

The veterans also took the opportunity to tour the new Air Force Museum and view the exhibits, some of which had been contributed by them. All agreed that the session was very meaningful and expressed their desire for more of such get-togethers. The FWC has confirmed its plan of future bi-yearly get-togethers, the next in Feb 2002.


The RSAF arm of the Veterans' League was formed in 1999 to provide opportunities for members to meet regularly through activities and special occasions like RSAF Day celebrations, with the objective of promoting and fostering the spirit of camaraderie associated with the military profession. The Chairman of the RSAF Veterans' League is LTC (RET) De Souza.

For more information on the RSAF Veterans’ League, please call Ms Stephanie/Mr Andre at 3779864/859 (Fax No: 3779855) or write to:

SAF Veterans' LeagueSAFRA National Service Association5200 Jalan Bukit Merah Singapore 159468

Head, Air Manpower - 16 July 2001Incoming: COL Peter WeeOutgoing: COL Bernard Toh

Deputy Head, Air Intelligence Department - 4 Aug 2001Incoming: LTC Tam Peng Yew

Commander, Air Defence Brigade - 27 Aug 2001Incoming: COL Tan Meng DuiOutgoing: COL Chua Teck Seng Richard

Deputy Head, Air Operations Department - 23 Sep 2001Incoming: LTC Nee Bor WeiOutgoing: COL Chan Peng Heong Daniel

Changes of Senior Appointments in RSAF

140 SQN - 9 July 2001Incoming CO: MAJ Lim Yeong KiatOutgoing CO: LTC Leong Chun Yu

112 SQN - 12 July 2001Incoming CO: MAJ Gan Keng SoonOutgoing CO: LTC Lui Geoffrey

203 SQN - 4 Aug 2001Incoming CO: MAJ Soh Fong JinOutgoing CO: LTC Tam Peng Yew

141 SQN - 29 Aug 2001Incoming CO: LTC Teoh Keng Hin KevinOutgoing CO: LTC Hing Chow Huat Albert

127 SQN - 7 Sep 2001Incoming CO: LTC Yong EdwardOutgoing CO: LTC Cheong Hon Seng

Changes of Command

Our RSAF Warrant Officer veterans and serving Warrant Officers posing together in the Air Force Museum.

The perfect place to reminisce about the old days – The Paya Lebar Air Base Officers’ Mess.




The opinion and views are those expressed by the writers and do

not necessarily reflect theofficial views of the RSAF or the Ministry of Defence. The material

in Air Force News is not to be reproduced in whole or in part

without the written consent of the Republic of Singapore Air Force.

AIR FORCE NEWSMANAGEMENT

COMMITTEE

ChairmanCOL Peter Wee

MembersLTC Harbajan SinghLTC Tan Wong Tong

LTC Clifford TanMAJ Lim Boon HowMAJ Anthony Lim

MAJ SarojanieMAJ Loke Kum SengMAJ Low Kheng Guat

Mrs Marian TangMs Felicia Gwee

Ms Lim Siew Hiang

EDITORIAL BOARD

EditorLTC Harbajan Singh

Asst EditorMiss Germaine Ho

Staff WriterYe Zhen

PhotographerTony Tan Wee Tong

Appreciation

Air Force News extends its appreciation to COL Bernard Toh, LTC Ng Heng Chong and LTC Tan Woo Sing for their invaluable contributions over the past few years and wish them well in their future endeavours. Air Force News also welcomes COL Peter Wee as the new Chairman, LTC Harbajan Singh as the new Editor, MAJ Low Kheng Guat from AMD and MAJ Anthony Lim from Paya Lebar Air Base into the Editorial Board.




National D

ay Parade 2001

Photo courtesy of APU

Download Oct 2001 issue

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