Issue 4 | 201002

AdvisorSLTC Alan Goh

EditorLTC Terence Ho

Executive StaffMs Serena Lim

ME3 Neo Quee Chye

ME2 James Chan

CPL Jesse Leow

CPL Gabriel Ong

PTE Justin Tan

PTE Ben Chester Cheong

MembersLTC Eugene Chng

LTC Spencer Ngui

LTC Paul Teo

MAJ Chionh Boon Soo

MAJ Stanley Lim

ME5 Jan Puah

ME5 Leong Chee Wah

Ms Jessica Teo

A Word from CNV QuickRepCatch up with the latest news in the Navy.

Where We’ve Been

Onwards and Upwards• Experts in Controlling the Maritime Skies• Surgical Excellence at Sea• Serving NS with Pride• Beyond the Call of Duty Exercise Pacific ReachGoing to Depths for Submarine Safety

Port Brief Be amazed as ME1 Kaye Ong – who went to Hawaii for Exercise RIMPAC – shares his story. Know Your Naval Staff How much do you really know about the members of Naval Staff? In this issue, we speak to the Chief Naval Medical Officer, COL (DR) Kang Wee Lee.

Know Your Navy Family Find out more about what others do in the Navy. We catch up with someone who had a chance to be part of this year’s marching contingent at the NDP.

Dog Watch Some of our personnel who had the chance to be part of the inaugural Youth Olympic Games share their experiences.

Free Gangway An NDU NSman shares how his diver training helped him win Mr Vasantham 2010. LibertyBelow 16? Take part in the Navy News Quiz!

BACK PAGE

Picture taken at the National Day Parade 2010 by ME4 Janiel S Toh, Chairman CWG – NAVWOC. Text by CPL Jesse Leow

COVER PAGE

Photo by PTE Justin Tan.

NAVY NEWS is a bi-monthly publication of the Republic of Singapore Navy. The views expressed by its writers do not necessarily reflect the official views of the Navy or the Ministry of Defence. NAVY NEWS is not to be reproduced in whole or in parts without the written consent of the RSN. Articles of interest are invited from readers, who may send them to NAVY NEWS, Naval Operations Department, HQ RSN, 303 Gombak Drive, #03-22, Singapore 669645. For enquiries and comments, please call 6768 3367 or email us at navynews@starnet.gov.sg or Navy News, IOB, NOD (OA email).

Issue Brief

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Issue BriefNavy News

Dangers arise from any and every dimension -But swiftly eliminating them is our pride and passion.

Our training is tough and the hours are long,But only then can a special breed of men be born.

Rising from the depths where we operate,One swift strike seals our enemies’ fate.

Always ready to keep threats at bay,We are Naval Divers; Nothing stands in our way.

ErratumIn our last issue, we reported that RSS STALWART participated in EX BERSAMA SHIELD. The correct ship involved should be RSS STEADFAST. We sincerely apologise for the error.

03 Issue 4 | 2010

RADM Chew Men LeongChief of Navy

As part of our daily work in the Navy family, we have all picked up some very important life skills.

One of these key skills is that of a diplomat. The high-level of negotiating and other interpersonal skills is needed not only at the bargaining table of the United Nations, but just as much when you live, work and play with others in the close quarters of a ship or submarine.

For many of us, these skills have been further honed through formal and informal occasions when we have interacted with our fellow shipmates from partner navies. Exercises, operations and shipboard interactions have made us better diplomats, not only learning how others operate as a navy, but also what makes them who they are.

This ability to seamlessly work with almost any navy is not something to be taken lightly. Learning another navy’s operational procedures will come in time. But learning about the nuances of another navy’s culture and how they work requires commitment on our part as individuals. We must desire to be more than just colleagues or merely a voice on the other end of the radio wave. We must aim to be friends. Misunderstandings can easily disrupt the best laid plans, and having a clear understanding of each other’s background will go far in helping to ensure mission success.

The many foreign exercises and exchanges that we conduct each year is not merely about benchmarking our skills, but just as importantly provides us with the opportunity to build ties. Operation SUryA BhASkArA JAyA is just one clear example of how having good relationships across different tiers and ranks with our foreign counterparts have ensured mission success. Conducted from 26 Jul to 3 Aug in Ambon, Indonesia, we worked closely alongside the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) as long-standing partners in their national socio-civic efforts and provide additional aid to the residents of the region.

Another win-win example of our commitment to be more than just colleagues is the on-going counter-piracy efforts in the Gulf of Aden. Our professional skills and ability to build and strengthen partnerships helped us to contribute effectively as the command of Combined Task Force 151 earlier this year.

We will continue to build on our existing partnerships as well as look out for new ones. One key way to do this has been our initiative to include observer programmes in some of the exercises we conduct. For example, the Submarine rescue and Medicine programme developed for EX PACIFIC rEACh will help extend our reach to like-minded nations.

As a Navy, we are more than just sailors. We are also ambassadors of our country, charged with the task to bring diplomacy in our dealings with our partner navies. It is this duty that makes the Navy a challenging, unique and yet satisfying place to work.

A Word from CNV

Issue 4 | 201004

Courtesy Calls / Quick Rep

CourtesyCalls

VADM Nguyen Van HienCommander-in-Chief

Vietnam People’s Navy

His Excellency Fernando DanusAmbassador

Chile

ADM Khamthorn PumhiranCommander-in-Chief

Royal Thai Navy

CAPT Pierre LandiechDefence Attache

Embassy of the Republic of France

Quick Rep

1. 2nd Malacca Straits Patrols Information Sharing ExerciseAbout 50 participants from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand gathered at the Changi C2 Centre for the 2nd Malacca Straits Patrols Information Sharing Exercise held from 29 Jun to 1 Jul. The exercise participants discussed response plans for scenarios based on the possible threat situations facing mariners in the region.

2. STET POLARIS – The RSN’s Own Training ShipThe RSN took delivery of STET POLARIS on 30 Jun. Operated by the RSN’s training partner, ST Education and Training, the vessel was custom built and specially fitted for her role as a dedicated navigation training ship.

3. SAF Day Parade 2010More than 1500 military personnel attended the SAF day parade on 1 Jul at SAFTI-MI. SLTC Ken Cheong, Commanding Officer RSS

STALWART, received the RSN’s Best Ship Award from President S R Nathan.

4. Gombak Uphill Run 2010Personnel from the Navy joined the other residents of Gombak Base in the annual Gombak Uphill Run on 2 Jul. The RSN team came in fifth in the competitive team event.

5. RSN Bowling Team ScoresThree bowlers from the RSN came in first in one of the qualifying rounds for the Canon Super Series Bowling Competition held at SAFRA Yishun on 2 Jul. Team Sea Rider, comprising ME3 Roger Koh, ME3 Daniel Soh and ME2 Alvin Sim, came in fifth in the finals held at Orchid Country Club on 4 Jul.

6. 13th Command Preparation Programme13 naval officers attended the 13th Command Preparation

01 - 2nd Malacca Straits Patrols Information Sharing Exercise

02 - STET POLARIS – The RSN’s Own Training Ship 05 - RSN Bowling Team Scores

07 - 18th TSWC Learners Graduate

CAPT John WoodDefense Attache

Embassy of the United States

05 Issue 4 | 2010

Programme conducted at the Naval Officers’ Advanced School from 5 to 21 Jul. This course aims to better prepare designated officers to take up their roles as ship Commanding Officers.

7. 18th TSWC Learners GraduateMAJ Ian Lin emerged as the Top Graduate of the 18th Tri-Service Warfighting Course conducted at the SAF Advanced Schools from 5 to 30 Jul. The 67 participants gleaned a better understanding of Joint Operations within the SAF, particularly in the area of Operations Other than War.

8. Change of Deputy Commander OCS (Navy)On 9 Jul, outgoing Commander LTC Choon Soon Onn handed over command to incoming commander LTC Foong Kok Pun in a ceremony held at SAFTI MI. CNV RADM Chew Men Leong was the witnessing officer.

9. DS(T)’s visit to NLODeputy Secretary (Technology) BG (NS) Ravinder Singh, visited Naval Logistics Organisation (NLO) at Tuas Maintenance Base (TMB) on 15 Jul. During the visit, he was given an overview of the recent developments in NLO and was briefed on NLO’s role in supporting key naval operations, such as RSS SUPREME’s successful Aster missile firing during EX RIMPAC 2010.

10. SAFSA Awards Presentation CeremonyTeam Navy came in second this year in the Inter-Formation Award. This year, they emerged champions in swimming while bagging second place intrack and field and table tennis.

11. TRACOM’s 16th AnniversaryTraining Command (TRACOM) celebrated its 16th birthday on 16 Jul. In addition to National

Education tours to reflect the importance of military and economic defence, some personnel commemorated the occasion by taking part in community service activities like helping to spruce up Sunbeam Place or the East Coast Park, and helping to paint several one-room flats at Chai Chee Estate.

12. Racial Harmony Day at TRACOMMore than 400 personnel from TRACOM celebrated Racial Harmony Day on 21 Jul with a free-media design competition focusing on the cultural diversity of immigrants to Singapore. At the same time, they pledged to the Orange Ribbon Project to live as one gracious society.

13. NPD GLOBE CertificationHaving previously been certified ISO 9001:2000 and Singapore Quality Class, Naval Personnel

Department (NPD) attained the GLOBE certification on 23 Jul. The award recognises NPD’s continued pursuit of organisational excellence, while implementing the new SAF HR schemes.

14. NLO Appreciation FunctionThe Naval Logistics Organisation Appreciation Function was held at the Changi Wardroom on 23 Jul to celebrate her receipt of the MINDEF Excellence Award (MEA) for the second consecutive year. NLO has also been inducted into the MEA Hall of Fame.

15. Inaugural RSN Commanders’ Safety ConferenceOn 26 Jul, RSN commanders, ranging from CNV to ships’ commanding officers, spent the afternoon discussing safety issues that were foremost on their minds as well as those of their

08 - Deputy Commander OCS (Navy) COC Ceremony 09 - DS(T)’s visit to NLO

10 - SAFSA Awards Presentation Ceremony 11 - TRACOM’s 16th Anniversary 13 - NPD GLOBE Certification

14 - NLO Appreciation Function

Issue 4 | 201006

Quick Rep

subordinates. Best safety practices were shared and the RSN Commanders Safety Conference will now be a standard feature of the work year, giving commanders a dedicated opportunity to get together and learn from one another.

16. CCWC Macau 20102LT Teo Shern Whey from Naval Diving Unit (NDU) participated in the 7th Club Crew World Championship race in Macau from 28 Jul to 1 Aug as part of the SAFSA Dragon Boat Team. They managed to win gold in the 200m, 500m and 2000m races.

17. RSN Inter-Group Basketball Tournament 2010FLEET came in champion in the RSN Inter-Group Basketball Tournament 2010 following the final matches held at the Changi Naval Base Sports Complex on 29 Jul. NDU/HQ RSN and the Maritime Security Task Force (MSTF) were first and second runners-up respectively.

18. MSTF Sports DayMSTF held its inaugural sports day on 30 Jul at the Changi Naval Base Sports Complex. Games included Captain’s Ball, 5-a-side Soccer, Human Foosball, “Human Sphere” and the “Ultimate Race”. The overall winner went to 182/189 SQN.

19. 1st Professional Leadership ProgrammeOn 30 Jul, 132 newly promoted 3WO successfully completed the inaugural Professional Leadership Programme. This included 15 personnel from the RSN, who received their certificates from Chief of Army, MG Chan Chun Sing.

20. NDU’s 3-in-1 ProgrammeInstead of an inspection of the gunnery, communications and navigation departments, NDU conducted a 3-in-1 programme on 6 Aug. A National Day observance ceremony was followed with an NDU Safety Day video screening and a

celebration for NDU members who had been promoted.

21. Celebrating Singapore’s 45th Birthday in Karlskrona, SwedenMembers of the Submarine Project Office in Karlskrona, Sweden joined millions of Singaporeans in reciting the national pledge at 8.10pm (Singapore Time) on 9 Aug, despite being six time zones away. Though it is a working day in Sweden, the crew have celebrated National Day every year with a myriad of activities to keep the Singaporean spirit and flag flying high.

22. Naval Participation in the 45th National Day ParadeMany personnel from the RSN played key roles in the 45th National Day celebrations on 9 Aug. They included 1WO Eric Tay, who was a jumper with the Red Lions; the marching contingents from NDU and IMOS; and the personnel forming the mobile military column.

23. Initial launch of SURPIC IIThe capabilities of SURPIC II were demonstrated at the initial launch of the enhanced system in the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) headquarters in Jakarta on 10 Aug. A system for real-time maritime information sharing between the RSN and TNI AL to combat piracy and sea robberies in the Singapore Strait, SURPIC II builds upon the capabilities of SURPIC.

24. Naval participation in the YOG10 servicemen from NDU joined other Singaporeans in the Youth Olympic Torch Relay on

11 Aug – Day 4 of the Singapore Leg. Led by Commanding Officer of Clearance Diving Unit, LTC Nick Neo, the team of torch bearers conducted the run as a whole. During the opening ceremony on 14 Aug, crew and craft from the Fast Craft Training Unit brought the final torch bearer to the Marina Bay Floating Platform. More details in pages 20-21.

25. FLEET Security Seminar 2010The FLEET Security Seminar 2010 was held on 17 Aug at the FLEET Auditorium. Speakers from the Naval Security Office, FLEET Intelligence Branch and Military Security Department spoke on the security status in the FLEET before presenting an insight into terrorism and vulnerabilities brought about by new media.

26. SAF Overseas Scholarship Award CeremonyMID Soh Kah Loke received the prestigious SAF Overseas Scholarship from Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Mr Teo Chee Hean at a ceremony held at the Istana on 17 Aug. The Hwa Chong Alumnus was one of four recipients this year and will be reading Chemical Engineering at University College London.

27. SAF Merit Scholarship Award Ceremony2LT Soh Guo Zhong received his SAF Merit Scholarship from Minister for Education and Second Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen at a ceremony held at the Temasek Club on 20 Aug.

26 - SAF Overseas Scholarship Award Ceremony 27 - SAF Merit Scholarship Award Ceremony

16 - CCWC Macau 2010

18 - MSTF Sports Day

19 - 1st Professional Leadership Programme

ExERCISE CARAT

The RSN together with the United States Navy and the United States Coast Guard conducted the Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) exercise 2010 in Singapore from 5 to 19 Jul. 16th in the series, this year’s exercise included serials like submarine-tracking missions, maritime warfare manoeuvres, andmaritime security drills.

OPERATION SURYA BHASKARA JAYA

The RSN and the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) conducted a socio-civic programme to provide social assistance, primary health and dental care to residents in Ambon, Indonesia, from 26 Jul to 3 Aug. The RSN medical team treated more than 2,000 patients and performed more than 100 surgeries both on shore and on board RSS ENDEAVOUR. Besides distributing essential food items to the residents, the RSN personnel worked together with the TNI AL to carry out repair and restoration works in four villages.

ExERCISE RIMPAC

The RSN participated in the biennial multilateral Rim of Pacific Exercise for the second time in Hawaii. Conducted from 23 Jun to 1 Aug, RSS SUPREME took part in maritime operations such as combined anti-submarine and air defence missions. She also successfully fired an Aster Surface-to-Air Missile on 14 Jul.

OPERATION BLUE SAPPHIRE II

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Mr. Teo Chee Hean visited the SAF Task Force deployed in the Gulf of Aden on 31 Aug. Together with CNV and other senior SAF officers, he was given an appreciation of the abilities of RSS ENDURANCE. He also observed the task group’s drill in response to a pirate attack ona merchant vessel.

ExERCISE EAGLE

The RSN and TNI AL conducted a bilateral exercise from 28 Jul to 5 Aug in Singapore and Surabaya, Indonesia. RSS TENACIOUS and RSS VIGOUR participated in a series of training exercises such as anti-surface warfare, maritime interdiction as well as search and rescue operations with TNI AL.

Where We’ve Been

OPERATION SURYA BHASKARA JAYA (SBJ)

ExERCISE CARAT

ExERCISE PACIFIC REACH

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Ex RIMPAC

ExERCISE PACIFIC REACH

The RSN and navies from Australia, Japan, the Republic of Korea and the United States conducted a Submarine Escape and Rescue exercise, codenamed PACIFIC REACH, from 17 to 25 Aug. This year saw the participation of the RSN’s RSS ENDEAVOUR, RSS CHIEFTAIN, MV SWIFT RESCUE and the submersible submarine rescue vehicle (Deep Search and Rescue 6) to develop and strengthen interoperability in submarine rescue operations with the other participating navies. More details on pages 12-15.

ExERCISE KAKADU

RSS TENACIOUS and RSS VIGOUR took part in a multilateral exercise off the coast of Darwin, Australia from 13 Aug to 3 Sep. Hosted by the Royal Australian Navy, the exercise also saw the participation of navies from Japan, New Zealandand Thailand.

ExERCISE KAKADU

Issue 4 | 2010

OPERATION BLUE SAPPHIRE II

(Photo courtesy of Pioneer)

Issue 4 | 201008

To be sure, the Military Domain Expert Scheme (MDES) has provided new opportunities for growth for its members. The RSN has moved a big step forward on the initiative and military experts are slowly but surely taking up the tasks in areas which used to be traditionally viewed as strictly the domain of a commissioned officer.

ME3 Ng Cheng Boon and ME3 Hoo Hui Seng from 185 SQN were selected to attend the Royal Navy’s Helicopter Control Course from March to June. This qualified them to hold the appointment of a Helicopter Control Officer, or better known in the RSN as an Anti-Submarine Tactical Air Controller (ASTAC). This is a new role on board the frigates as the integration programme of the Naval Helicopter continues.

Tapping on their previous experience as Combat Information Centre supervisors, where they were in charge of compiling the tactical maritime situation for the Command, ME3 Ng and ME3 Hoo quickly picked up the necessary skills and knowledge. With their great enthusiasm and commitment, it is not surprising that they finished in the top half of their course, going ahead of their coursemates who were more qualified officers.

With their tactical appreciation and quick understanding of various subjects, both were given commendations by their instructors. In the coming months, they will be working alongside the Air Control Officers aboard the frigates.

Reflecting, ME3 Hoo said: “As ASTACs, we are expected to control the naval

Experts in Controlling the Maritime Skies

Onwards & Upwards

Story by Jesse LeowPhotos courtesy of Pioneer and 185 SQN

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Military Experts with the right skill sets are now able to operate these helicoptersGraduates of the RSN’s 2nd ASTAC CourseME3 Hoo Hui Seng (second from left) and ME3 Ng Cheng Boon (second from right) with their coursemates at the Royal Navy’s Helicopter Control Course

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helicopters to make use of her speed and reach, so as to better aid the required mission objectives of the frigates. With our past experience as a CIC Supervisor, we are able to better see the picture as a whole and deploy the aircraft in a more tactical and advantageous manner.” Adding on to this was ME3 Ng, who shared: “I am very excited about being able to further develop and contribute to the RSN. Participating in this course is certainly an eye-opener for me as I can now work in a new area of expertise.”

At the same time, eight military experts and five officers completed the RSN’s second ASTAC course in June. ME2 Daniel Loy remarked: “Having a mix of military experts and officers in the course brought in people with complementary skills and knowledge; that helped bridge the different functions and domain areas. The military experts were able to share their expertise on anti-submarine principles and tactical appreciation, while the officers were able to provide inputs on air control and tactical warfare considerations. Not only was this a good and necessary mix of personnel, it provided for an increased utilisation of our capabilities.”

Such sentiment was also echoed within the top management of the squadron. LTC Roland Tan, Head of Operations of HQ 185 SQN concluded, “There are many positive examples of the MDES community embracing the scheme in

the right direction, increasingly taking up roles that were previously meant only for commissioned officers. However, success depends not merely on the organisation offering possibilities. It is also important for the MDES personnel to want to take on these challenges in order for them to have a more fulfilling career in the Navy.”

09 Issue 4 | 2010

Since Sail Navy 2000, the RSN’s first round-the-world deployment, the RSN has continued to push “further for longer”. Today, deployments spanning months have become necessary and the RSN is operationally and logistically ready to put our ships where they are needed most.

Forward Naval Surgical Support has also kept pace. Medical capabilities on board our ships have matured to ensure that our crews have access to what they need to have them operating at peak performance. In the larger ships of the RSN, medical centres have been designed, equipped and staffed to ensure that adequate medical care is available even when far out at sea.

This path to medical excellence began with the most basic of treatment facilities on board the Landing Ships Tank (LSTs) in 2000. In 2002, maritime surgical containers were introduced, and then the

eventual conversion of compartments within the ship into intensive care units and high-dependency wards for post-surgery monitoring.

Even in the frigates, suitable areas have been identified for these purposes, if and when needed. In fact, the converted high-dependancy wards will be as good as those in the local hospitals, complete with all necessary monitoring equipment. These conversions will take two persons about half an hour to set up.

Observing this during the recent Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) exercise with the United States Navy (USN), was CAPT Michael Krentz, Fleet Surgeon of the USN’s 7th Fleet. Impressed by the high dependency ward set-up on the frigate, he commented: “Forward resuscitative surgery on small platforms is a new capability under development by both our navies... Lessons learned from adapting spaces not usually dedicated to emergency surgery will be of great value.”

This capability also impressed the RSN NSmen participating in the same exercise, many of whom are practising doctors and surgeons. MAJ (DR) (NS) Andrew Wong, a consultant surgeon from Changi General Hospital, felt that this was a “significant milestone” in providing forward naval surgical support to the RSN during peacetime, Operations Other than War (OOTW) and wartime operations.

Onwards & Upwards

Story by Jesse LeowPhotos by Gabriel Ong & Navy Medical Service

Surgical Excellence at Sea

The surgical capabilities aboard have also been put through their operational paces on many occasions. The LSTs have been deployed as surgical platforms for several socio-civic missions in Indonesia since 2003. During the recent joint Operation SURYA BHASKARA JAYA with the Indonesian Navy in Ambon, Indonesia (26 Jul to 3 Aug), the SAF Medical Corps performed more than 100 surgeries, including delicate cataract operation in operating theatres set up in various parts of the LST.

MAJ (DR) Chow Weien, Head Medical Doctrine & Training Branch, Navy Medical Service, emphasised: “Going forward, the RSN will continue to play a major role in enhancing the SAF’s maritime surgical capability to support the SAF warfighter across the spectrum of operations, from peacetime, OOTW and war. It is also important that NMS continues to build medical expertise in the traditional areas of naval operational medicine and underwater medicine. This effort will be greatly enhanced with the presence of our Naval Military Medical Experts possessing Advanced Diplomas in Nursing, specialising in anaesthesia, peri-operative medicine, critical care and emergency medicine.”

CNMO COL (DR) Kang Wee Lee and our USN counterparts during EX CARAT 2010The RSN medical team in the operating theatre on board RSS ENDEAVOUR during SBJ 2010The converted high-dependency ward on board a frigate

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Issue 4 | 201010

Serving NS with Pride

Story and Photo by Gabriel Ong

To recognise the NSFs who have made significant contributions during their term of National Service, the Fifth Committee to Recognise the Contribution of Operationally Ready Servicemen to Total Defence, RECORD V, proposed the introduction of the “NSF of the Year Award” in Sep 09. Of the 70 recipients of the inaugural NSF of the Year Award, eight came from the Navy – 2LT (NS) Vincent Lim (180 SQN), 3SG (NS) Devin Ong (NDU), 3SG (NS) Lau Leung Yu (NALCOM), CFC (NS) Lee Choon Long (NDU), CPL (NS) Kelvin Yap (RSS RESOLUTION), CPL (NS) Srijit Shashedaran (Tuas Defence Squadron), CPL (NS) Melvin Sim (RSS FREEDOM) and PTE Justin Tan (TRACOM). Navy News finds out more about what set them apart from their NSF counterparts.

For 2LT (NS) Lim, his NS journey was an unforgettable one, with its fair shares of ups and downs, akin to a rollercoaster ride. While training became harder as he

Onwards & Upwards

progressed from Basic Military Training to officer training in Midshipman School, 2LT Lim persevered with a positive attitude, giving his all in everything he did.

His biggest challenge came after he was commissioned and took up the role of a controller in the newly revamped Maritime Security Task Force (MSTF) Operations Hub. Here, he had to manage a team of watch operators and supervisors, almost all of them senior to him in both age and experience. His job was to ensure that his team kept an effective and vigilant round-the-clock watch over the waters of Singapore.

Despite the gruelling hours and stressful environment, 2LT (NS) Lim made the best out of it. He reflected: “Being in MSTF has been meaningful because I got to learn first-hand how important maritime security is for a peaceful Singapore. I’ve learnt so much about managing people and time, having faced critical situations that require an almost immediate response.”

Not many NSFs can boast about having an unique NS experience like 3SG (NS) Ong. After all, few are selected into the elite Naval Diving Unit. 3SG (NS) Ong reflected: “My NS journey was a journey like no other. It was about venturing into the unknown, stepping outside of my comfort zone, enduring rigorous training

and last but definitely not the least, working together as a team.”

Steadfast, responsible and disciplined, 3SG (NS) Ong was an outstanding leader who took pride and dedication in his service as a Platoon Leader in Dive School. Besides being a constant pillar of support to his team mates and peers, 3SG (NS) Ong took excellent control and command of his class. Looking back, 3SG (NS) Ong remarked: “My National Service has been a fruitful experience. One lesson I will always remember is to always remain calm under any circumstance, to stop, think and breathe.”

Doing his best in whatever he does is the work ethos CPL (NS) Yap has for himself. When asked about what motivated him to do his best in NS, the Command and Control Systems Operator spontaneously shared: ”When I was posted to RSS RESOLUTION, I found everyone friendly and helpful. I could feel the warmth and tight bonds the crew shared, just like that of a family. We played hard and we worked hard together. Thus, I felt really driven to do my best and set a good example for my peers and juniors to emulate.”

Navy News congratulates this year’s winners and wishes the best to the next crop of NSFs as they vie for the award next year.

NSFs of the year - (From left): PTE Justin Tan, 3SG (NS) Devin Ong, 3SG (NS) Lau Leung Yu, 2LT (NS) Vincent Lim, CFC (NS) Lee Choon Long and CPL (NS) Kelvin Yap

11 Issue 4 | 2010

LTC (DR) (NS) Lee Chun Yue and CPT (NS) Yan Kah Leong are two very different people. The former is a Senior Consultant and the Chief of the Emergency Department at Alexandra Hospital while the latter is a Senior Manager at Great Eastern Insurance. But one thing links them both together – their unwavering commitment to the defence of Singapore.

In-Camp Training (ICT) is conducted annually for NSmen to retain their skills and sharp operational edge in the defence of the country. “Being citizens of Singapore, it is only correct that we participate fully in the ICT. It is a small way to give back to society for we have received – security, safety and a bright future,” shared LTC (DR) (NS) Lee. For CPT (NS) Yan, ICT also provides a good opportunity to catch up with old friends. He noted: “Every year, I look forward to my ICT to meet up with my old NS buddies as well as those still in the RSN. The friendships, rapport building and great teamwork makes every ICT an exciting one.”

One of LTC (DR) (NS) Lee’s most significant contributions during his ICT was taking up the appointment of Chief Surgeon aboard the RSN’s Naval Ship Hospital (NSH) from 2004 to 2007. LTC (DR) (NS) Lee played a key role in raising the bar of the SAF’s maritime surgical capability in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations, Operations Other than War, Peace Support Operations, wartime operations and socio-civic missions.

The 45-year old went beyond the call of his regular ICT duties and even volunteered for Operation SURYA BHASKARA JAYA 2008, a socio-civic operation where the RSN assists the Indonesian Navy in reaching out to communities in the far reaches of Indonesia. He fondly recalled: “From providing medical and dental care, to performing care for chronic illnesses and emergency surgeries, to ferrying patients to and from the ship, I think we did almost everything. This is testament to the high standards of the RSN’s maritime surgical capability.”

Today, LTC (DR) (NS) Lee is the Chief Physician on board the NSH and he is still consulted regularly by the RSN and the SAF to provide medical support planning for the various missions the SAF undertakes.

Having assumed the appointment of Officer-in-Charge of the Sea Requisition Centre since 2001, CPT (NS) Yan has never failed to achieve all his given tasks and motivate his NS team to give their best. ME6 Lee Seng Tong, Head Operations NALCOM commented: “CPT (NS) Yan leads by example in setting effective goals and completing the tasks given to

him on time with minimal supervision. He personally sees through the planning and implementations of the various tasks assigned to him and is always prepared to put in the extra effort outside the scope of his ICT to accomplish them.”

CPT (NS) Yan shares: “A lot of patience and determination is needed to drill into every man the importance of his role. Sometimes we need to study the NSmen’s profile and employ them where they would be most useful and effective.”

In recognition of their unwavering and greatly inspiring efforts, LTC (NS) (DR) Lee and CPT (Yan) were awarded the Commendation (Military) Medal and the NSman of the Year Awards respectively. In addition, Family Recognition Vouchers were given to them both. CPT (NS) Yan shared excitedly: “I’m very proud and happy to receive both the NSman of the Year Award and the Family Recognition Voucher! I will be using the Family Recognition Voucher to book a chalet at Downtown East in November for my family and colleagues!”

Story by Gabriel OngPhotos courtesy of CPT (NS) Yan & Navy Medical Service

Onwards & Upwards

Beyond the Call of Duty

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LTC (DR) (NS) Lee (second from right) and three others demonstrating an evacuation technique

CPT (NS) Yan wih his wife and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean at the SAF Day Parade 2010

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Issue 4 | 201012

Submariners operate in a very demanding environment. While the submarines are very capable machines, accidents may happen and it is this eventuality that all submarine operating fleets have to plan for. The ability of a submariner to survive when the worst happens depends largely on how quickly a rescue vessel can get to them.

Thus while navies develop their submarine capabilities, a parallel development is their submarine rescue capability. It is a characteristic of navies that such rescue capabilities cannot be confined to national borders, and Exercise Pacific Reach, a multi-national submarine escape and rescue exercise, was conducted in Changi Naval Base from 17 to 25 Aug to build collaboration in this important area.

In his opening address, FLEET Commander RADM Joseph Leong noted: “Exercise Pacific Reach serves as a platform to foster closer cooperation in submarine escape and rescue, as well as to enhance multilateral relations among the submarine operating countries. As more countries acquire or enhance their submarine capabilities in the region, it is also important that we build and maintain a strong network for multilateral submarine rescue collaboration.”

Exercise Pacific Reach – Going to Depths for Submarine Safety

Story by Jesse LeowPhotos by Justin Tan and courtesy of Pioneer

Now Hear This!

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Over four days in the South China Sea, the participating navies from Singapore, Australia, Japan, the Republic of Korea and the United States worked together to conduct mating operations between the RSN’s submersible submarine rescue vehicle, Deep Search and Rescue Six (DSAR 6), and the United States Navy’s (USN’s) Submarine Rescue Chamber. Participating submarines were RSS CHIEFTAIN and JDS ARASHIO from the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force. Observers from 13 nations – Canada, China, France, India, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, Pakistan, South Africa, Sweden, Thailand, the United Kingdom and Vietnam were also present.

Part of the exercise included a visit and tour of MV SWIFT RESCUE to gain a better understanding of the rescue capabilities that the RSN is able to offer distressed submarines in the vicinity. Leveraging on the commercial expertise available, the public-private collaboration with Singapore Technologies Marine to operate and maintain the vessel has enabled the RSN to develop an organic submarine rescue capability in a short period of time. Operational capabilities and the integration of both MV SWIFT RESCUE and DSAR 6 were delivered in 2009, a mere four years since its concept and budget approval. This has propelled the RSN into a league of only eleven other navies with the capacity to conduct submarine rescue operations.

Upon activation, MV SWIFT RESCUE can be deployed quickly to the submarine distress site. It is then that DSAR 6 comes into its own. A mini-submarine in itself, the DSAR 6, with a maximum operating depth of 500 metres, can be launched in harsh sea conditions up to sea state 5 using a custom-built launch and recovery system in as little as 15 minutes.

After pressuring itself to match the internal pressure of the distressed submarine, the DSAR 6 has the capacity to carry up to 17 submariners under a constant pressure back to the modern hyperbaric facilities available aboard MV SWIFT RESCUE for further treatment.

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CNV RADM Chew Men Leong being briefed on the USN’s submarine rescue capabilityState-of-the-art hyperbaric facilities on board MV SWIFT RESCUEQuick Launch and Recovery System to recover the DSAR 6 in under 15 minutesLaunching the DSAR 6 can be done even in sea state 5Mating with a distressed submarine

MV SWIFT RESCUE Deep Search And Rescue 6

85 m18 m4300 tonnes12 KnotsUp to 28 Days of operations at seaUp to 130, with 27 crew members

Length :Width :

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Length :Width :Height :Weight :

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9.6 m3.2 m2.8 m25 tonnes500 m3 knots

10 hours

Issue 4 | 201014

A total of four recompression chambers are available on board, so as to allow different rates of recompression should the need arise.

“In a system where the evacuated submariners are transferred to the surface under a constant pressure, pressure-related illnesses can thus be avoided altogether. This is in contrast to the scenario of a free-surfacing submariner, where the immense pressure change can subject him to barotraumas and gas embolisms,” explained MAJ (DR) Shalini, Head of Naval Underwater Medical Centre.

MV SWIFT RESCUE hosts medical facilities and monitoring wards with a 29-strong medical team which can cater for non-pressure related injuries as well. These include dehydration and the inhalation of toxic fumes which are the other common scenarios within a distressed submarine. A helicopter landing spot has also been built for helicopter evacuation.

Needless to say, this highly advanced rescue system has brought peace of mind to the submarine fraternity. “DSAR 6 makes our job safer. Its ability to go down and be able to insulate submariners from pressure changes when evacuating them back to the surface is comforting. The lengths that the government has gone to help keep us safe is certainly reassuring for the submarine fraternity and will keep us going,” shared ME1 Gijo George, Sonar Specialist, RSS CHIEFTAIN.

The sharing of submarine rescue capabilities have become an increasingly important area as more and more countries start to develop their submarine capability. CAPT Brian Howes, Commander of the USN’s Submarine Development Squadron 5 observed: “This exercise has been very successful for all the participating nations. I think it’s very important not only for us, but for the comfort of our families and submariners to be able to get to these sailors when they are in need. I had the opportunity to do rescue operations on the Japanese submarine and it was very state-of-the-art, very impressive.”

Now Hear This!

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Going underwater to mate with a submarineRSN personnel providing hyperbaric treatmentEvaluation of injuries and treatment by the medical forceOne of the four recompression chambers on MV SWIFT RESCUEOperation of MV SWIFT RESCUE by a professional under the Public-Private partnershipAvenue for helicopter evacuation from MV SWIFT RESCUE

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15 Issue 4 | 2010

Calm waters greeted us as we sailed into Pearl Harbour on 23 Jun. The gentle reflection of the sun’s rays off the waters were a welcome sight after more than two weeks of high seas, as we sailed from Singapore to Hawaii to take part in the Rim of the Pacific Exercise (Ex RIMPAC) 2010. Coming into Pearl Harbour, the view was magnificent and simply breathtaking. Majestic warships lined the crowded piers and the USS ARIZONA Memorial and USS MISSOURI provided a sombre yet picturesque backdrop.

We hit the shopping areas once shore leave was declared. First stop was the Ala Moana Shopping Centre. It is at least three times larger then the Suntec City Mall and carries a wide range of brands from Apple to Hollister to Prada. Best of all, it was also sale season in Hawaii! With prices slashed by more than 80%, it converted many of the ship crew into shopaholics! But our true shopping paradise was at the Waikele Premium Outlet, where we found premium brands like Coach, Ralph and True Religion.

Known as the surfing capital of the world, we could not miss experiencing the beaches. Naturally, we made a beeline to the most famous beach of all – Waikiki Beach. While handsome hunks and hot babes lined the golden coast, it was the huge waves that fascinated us. It was difficult to resist the temptation and many of us had to join the crowd and try our hands at Boogie Boarding, an obsession in Hawaii. Similar to surfing where you get to “ride the wave”, Boogie Boarding required you to do it in a prone position on a shorter board.

We paddled our way out to sea. At first, a few waves passed by but none were strong enough to push us to shore. Just as our morale started to dip, the “Big Kahuna” of a wave came. Everyone immediately paddled hard; the wave took us off our board and washed us right onto the sandy beach. The feeling was absolutely stunning and indescribable. We became instant boogie boarding addicts and kept chasing waves till sunset.

The three prominent World War II memorials of USS ARIZONA, USS MISSOURI and USS BOWFIN are must-sees in the Big Island of Hawaii. USS BOWFIN is a World War II submarine that not only survived but sank the most number of surface targets. It was an experience just to be inside a submarine. The interior was larger than I expected, but as we ventured further, I realised that the spaces were rather constricted. Bunks were cramped and the toilets were nowhere near a “place of serenity”. As a communications specialist, the radio room in any naval vessel interests me the most. I caught a glimpse of the USS BOWFIN’s radio room. It looked just like something out of the movie “Pearl

Harbour” as it was small and filled with wires and radio equipment.

On the other hand, the USS MISSOURI was huge! A gigantic battleship that looked like a mega cruise ship, but modified to suit naval requirements, it is equipped with guns the length of a bus and she had nine of them! Most significantly, USS MISSOURI saw the signing of the Formal Instrument of Surrender by Japan to the Allied Forces, ending World War II.

Among all the ports I have travelled to with the RSN, Hawaii will forever hold a special and beautiful place in my memory. I look forward to returning to her to explore more.

Port Brief

Say Aloha!

Story by ME1 Kaye OngPhotos courtesy of RSS SUPREME

The beautiful waters off thecoast of HawaiiBoogie Boarding after almost two weeks at sea

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Ship :Where :When :

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RSS SUPREMEOff the coast of Hawaii, USA23 Jun to 1 AugTo participate in the USN-led multi-lateral Rim of the Pacific Exercise, which covered all three dimensions of awarfare – air, surface and sub-surface.

KEY FACTS

Issue 4 | 201016

While every doctor aims to provide the best medical care for their patients, a military doctor has greater responsibilities – to do that without compromising the success of the mission. Tag on to that a challenging shipboard environment and you can safely assume that our Navy Doctors have a tougher time than their land-based counterparts. COL (DR) Kang Wee Lee is the Chief Naval Medical Officer (CNMO). He shares with Navy News just what it takes to ensure that our sailors get the best medical care wherever they may be.

Story and Photo by Gabriel Ong

Bringing Medical Support in the RSN to the Highest Levels

When and why did you join the navy?

I signed on in the navy in 1996. Back then, I wanted to do more than see patients in a hospital or clinic setting. The SAF, and the RSN in particular, was rapidly expanding in the 90s and I wanted to be part of the exciting transformation. Then CNMO COL Edwin Low also shared with me his vision for Navy Medical Service- to build an operational outfit to support our navy surface warfare operations and build up our underwater medicine and submarine rescue capability. I knew this was where I wanted to be. Being able to develop new medical capabilities for the navy and seeing these new initiatives come to fruition have also made my job even more satisfying.

What does the job of CNMO entail?

As CNMO, my primary responsibility is to maintain operational health and readiness for the RSN and to enhance

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the operational performance of our navy combatants. In operations and exercises, my job is to ensure that the medical support for our servicemen and servicewomen is robust, making sure that the best medical care are available to our people should they require it. As the custodian of the specialised field of underwater medicine in the SAF, I chart the development of underwater medicine in line with the SAF’s operational requirements and provide leadership in this discipline at the national level as well.

What are some of the challenges you face at work and how do you manage them?

The main challenge is finding sufficient resources to do all the things that we want to do. I think this is a challenge many SAF commanders face. Often, we need to prioritise when there are competing demands. In such situations, I will usually have in-depth discussion with my leadership team before we come to a practical and well-evaluated decision.

When it comes to force health and medical support, we need to constantly watch out for signs of complacency on the ground. In this aspect, I always remind my staff to maintain professionalism at all times and to stay vigilant during exercises and operations. My staff and I will also find opportunities to educate our commanders on the importance of these issues so as to secure their buy-in and support.

What do you think are some traits you possess that have helped you at work?

My years of surgical training has “forced” me to think on my feet and stay calm when confronted with the unexpected and this trait has proved handy. During EX PACIFIC REACH 2000, a foreign military personnel met with a serious shipboard accident. Being the doctor on scene, I had to make a quick evaluation and decide the best course of action. In the end, we heli-evacuate the injured sailor to our hospital and he made a good recovery.

What are some of the fond memories you have while serving in the Navy?

During my earlier years, I had the chance to do some travelling. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the world and learning new things, especially in the realm of underwater medicine. The submarine escape training in Sweden and diving training in the US Navy Dive School in Panama City were the most unforgettable memories.

The socio-civic missions that the Navy has been constantly involved in has made a deep impact on me. Through such missions, we have been able to make a tangible difference to the people in these rural communities. Over the years, we have been trying to bring more value-added service to the local populace. For instance, the recent Operation SURYA BHASKARA JAYA saw us performing cataract operations on board a RSN ship for the first time.

How different is it being a civilian doctor and a military doctor?

Unlike civilian doctors who usually work in a comfortable environment with much resources at their disposal, our RSN Medical Officers frequently have to operate under austere operational conditions on board ships and in improvised medical set-ups such as tentages and makeshift clinics (in rural villages) during missions

and operations. This is a good test of their professionalism, resilience and resourcefulness in getting the job done well.

Could you share with us a bit about your family? Also, where did you spend your last holiday?

My wife, Veronica is a home-maker and my two daughters, Vivienne and Vanessa, are in Secondary One and Primary Four respectively. Our last holiday was in Beijing in end-2008. It was a good holiday, especially for the children as they were able to enjoy first-hand experience of the Chinese culture, history and language.

Share with us some facts the navy family doesn’t know about you.

I actually started my SAF career in the Army. After my Medical Officer Cadet Course (MOCC), I was a medical officer in an Infantry Battalion before joining the Navy.

I like reading in my leisure time. The book I’m currently reading is called “The End of Food” by Paul Roberts. It talks about the entire global food chain and how each individual component is interdependent.

Lastly, I’m also a Liverpool fan since 1978, when I first started watching soccer!

Know your Naval Staff

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COL Kang (second from right) operating on board KRI DR SOEHARSO, a TNI AL hospital ship, during SBJ 2010A family portraitCOL Kang and his wife, Veronica, and his daughters, Vivienne (left) and Vanessa (right)

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Issue 4 | 201018

A March to Success!

Story by Jesse LeowPhoto by Justin Tan

Though promised a varied career path, fun-loving ME1 (T) Pamela Koh never imagined herself taking part in the National Day Parade when she took up a Navy sponsorship for her studies in Mechanical Technology at the Institute of Technical Education. Yet, she was one of the proud members in the naval marching contingent in this year’s National Day Parade.

The National Day Parade will not be a National Day Parade without its staples – the blanket of fireworks in the night sky, the awe-inspiring Red Lions, the carefully choreographed mass displays, and not forgetting, the military precision of the marching contingents.

In addition to the naval Guard-of-Honour contingent represented by Naval Diving Unit, Pamela and her fellow trainees from the Institute of Maritime Operations and Systems (IMOS) came together to form the naval marching contingent at this year’s National Day Parade. Weekly drills began as early as April and it saw the various marching contingents gathering at Nee Soon Camp to practice for almost 10 hours every Saturday. As National Day drew closer, rehearsals shifted to the Padang.

Much sweat and sacrifice went into ensuring military precision marching by all the contingents. “Training was regimental and ate into the free time I had with my family. Nevertheless, I found it worthwhile because of the pride it gave me to be able to participate in such an important event,” shared Pamela. She also declared to Navy News that she is now able to name all the landmarks in the vicinity of Padang, and know the precise distance between each of these landmarks, which lay along her 2 km marching route.

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Pamela felt that the trainees from IMOS were able to smartly form up and march past the crowds of spectators due to teamwork and co-operation. “Working together towards a common goal is something necessary for smooth operations, especially in the RSN where the smooth functioning of ships relies on many different components,” she said.

To Pamela, this sense of cohesion is one of the strongest attributes of the RSN. “The instructors and officers have created a positive working environment by being approachable and in helping us with problems that we face. In addition, initiatives such as Healthy Lifestyle Days and cohesion activities helped increase this bonding,” she affirmed. Pamela joined the RSN on 14 Dec 09 and is currently attending a course to become a Naval Systems Warfare Engineer in Marine Systems.

This winning formula is of extra relevance to Pamela as her favourite sports are team sports such as basketball, dragon-boating and baseball. “More than just employing the right strategies to win,

the closeness and appreciation of the strengths of others allow for closer co-ordination between individual members.” she remarked. This includes the bonding with the players of T-Net, a basketball team that she coaches.

In just these few months, she has also seen herself grow. Pamela concluded: “The last ten months or so spent at IMOS has helped to make me a better person. I find myself having greater empathy for others and I think I am better able to persevere through hardships.Being part of the Navy family would not only allow me to play a vital role in the defence of our country, but I feel excited at the thought of sailing for overseas deployments and being able to meet members of foreign navies. It truly is a different and exciting career.”

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Standing tall at the National Day Parade 2010Pamela (first row, fourth from right) after completing her BMTPamela with her family

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Issue 4 | 201020

DisplayingtheNavy Spirit at the YOG

Story contributed by CPT Desmond OngPhotos courtesy of 188 SQN Photography Interest Group

The conclusion of the recent Singapore 2010 Youth Olympic Games (YOG) marked another important milestone in the country’s history. Running from 14 to 26 Aug, Singapore played host to the 3,600 young athletes from 204 National Olympic Committees over as they gathered for an international sporting event, destined to be a fixture in the major sporting calendar of the world.

With only two and a half years from the award of the bid to the opening ceremony on 14 Aug meant that the YOG Organising Committee pulled out all the stops. Their achievements are even more noteworthy as a large proportion of the YOG workforce comprised volunteers from all walks of life.

Fast Craft Utility (FCU) dressed up as a phoenix for the Youth Olympic Games Opening Ceremony

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Within the RSN, the call for volunteers was also raised, and it was answered splendidly. Personnel from various formations came forth, albeit knowing that they would have to sacrifice much of their personal time to help Singapore achieve another first. Navy Newswould like to share some of their moments here.

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ME3 Kathiresan (center) with his fellow servicemen during a combined rehearsalLTC David Lee (right) taking over the torch before the start of his leg of the torch relayME5 Chris Chong (left) having a discussion with LTC David Lee during a mass photo shootThe RSN volunteers going through an on site orientation at Marina Reservoir

“I have wanted to be part of the YOG. When I knew that the RSN was looking for volunteers, I immediately responded. When I saw the state flag being raised during the Opening Ceremony, I was overwhelmed by emotions, proud to be a Singaporean.” - ME3 Kathiresan, HQ NALCOM, the chief trainer of the flag escorts for the opening and closing ceremonies.

“We burnt many weekends and also had to report to camp for midnight sailing. We all knew that the efforts we put in and the hardships we’d been through were not wasted when we sailed the Phoenix flawlessly towards the floating platform for the Opening Ceremony.” - LCP Tay Jun Yuan, Fast Craft Training Unit, who helped to pilot the “Phoenix” Fast Craft Utility, with the torch-bearer on board, to the floating platform.

“Because of NDP 2010, the waters around the floating platform were only opened to us on 10th Aug, barely three days to the YOG Opening Ceremony. The FCU team made every rehearsal count and delivered a spectacular performance.” - LTC David Lee, 188 SQN, Head of Naval Participation, YOG Executive Committee

“It was very refreshing to see servicemen coming to me after the slots were full, asking if they could be part of the team. Maybe it is the allure of being a part of the YOG, or more likely, maybe it is just the type of people we have in the RSN, always wanting to do their part for the nation.”

- ME5 Chris Chong, 188 SQN, who was coordinating the mass photo shoot with key YOG personnel.

“I felt truly ‘shiok’ to be part of the YOG Organising Committee, to be part of the YOG legacy.” - Mr Tang Jun Wen, Tuas Maintenance Base, a Venue Logistics Manager.

ME3 Chong Kwong Chin, Coxswain RSS VICTORY concluded: “Despite the hard work and tough conditions, all the volunteers came together and worked as one. We have shown everyone what the Navy is all about and how we value professionalism.”

BZ to Singapore and all our RSN volunteers!

Issue 4 | 201022

Free Gangway

Hooyah Mr Vasantham!

Thanks to the rigourous physical regime of the Naval Diving Unit (NDU), well toned, muscular young men are a common sight in the RSN. But one such diver who decided to turn up the heat on National Television instead was NSman, Mr Vikneshvaran.

Mr Vikneshvaran did his National Service in NDU, graduating from the 27th Batch of divers and then going on to be a Section Leader for the Underwater Demolition Team. He is currently pursuing his full-time studies in the Nanyang Technological University.

Although he had completed his NS duties on 12 Feb 09, the discipline, ethos and values of a Naval Diver were “deeply” embedded in Mr Vikneshvaran and spurred him to pursue the sport of bodybuilding. Mr Vikneshvaran reflected: “The time I had in NDU led me to change my perspective of physical training. It used to be difficult, but now I can better focus on my workouts, and more importantly, I really enjoy them.”

Out of the 100 hopefuls who auditioned for the inaugural Mr Vasantham contest, only 10 contestants were handpicked for the competition. Mr Vikneshvaran stood out with his lean, finely muscled frame, confidently beating nine other contestants over the nine weeks of competition to clinch the title of Mr

Vasantham. He won $5000 at the grand finals held at the Mediacorp Studios on 12 Jun.

Mr Vikneshvaran believes that he owes his success to NDU: “Being a diver, you have to be versatile. We are trained to carry out different tasks at the same time. One fine example would be performing our daily operations in NDU while also being a participant at the National Day Parade. This versatility and ability to adapt and take on challenges in our stride aided me throughout the weeks of the Mr Vasantham competition.”

Now that Mr Vikneshvaran has been crowned “Mr Vasantham”, his biggest challenge now is to ensure that he always looks his best. Mr Vikneshvaran laughs it off: “Being a diver, appearance was never a factor. Divers naturally have a rugged and macho look. But now, I’ve to make sure that I’m also dressed to kill.”

Not resting on his laurels after winning the title, Mr Vikneshvaran has plans to give back to community in a noble way. He plans to start a support group targeted at youths and those in need.

As a parting shot during our interview, Mr Vikneshvaran expressed: “It is an honour and privilege to always be part of the Navy Family, even as a NSman. Hooyah!”

Story by CPL (NS) Haresh Hari KumarPhotos by Gabriel Ong and courtesy of CPL (NS) Haresh Hari Kumar Building a fine physique through rigorous training

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“Bravo Zulu” is a nautical term that means “Well Done”. This is part of a set of standard terms, the Allied Naval Signal Book, established by the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation in 1949 for its members to communicate with each other.

A cool prize package awaits the first person, below the age of 16, to send the correct answer to navynews@starnet.gov.sg. Send in your entry together with your full name, birth certificate/NRIC number and contact number.

Congratulations to Johanan Soh (IC No. TXXXX059G) who was our winner for the Quiz in Issue 03/2010.

The FCU contributed in a key way to the success of the inaugural Youth Olympic Games. What does the acronym FCU stand for?

Liberty

Navy Speak Quiz

International maritime flags for “Bravo” and “Zulu” respectively

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