NEW CHIEF OF ARMY APPOINTED

As part of the Singapore Armed Forces' (SAF's) continuing process of leadership renewal, Brigadier-General (BG) Chan Chun Sing took over command of the Army from Major-General (MG) Neo Kian Hong on 26 Mar.

At the Change of Command Parade held at Pasir Laba Camp, outgoing Chief of Army (COA) MG Neo shared about witnessing the Army's progress to a 3rd Generation fighting force. He also commented about the commitment and ingenuity of the soldiers he observed through their training and missions.

Addressing fellow soldiers, he said: "I am both proud and honoured to have been able to walk this part of the journey together with you."

"Continue to remain committed and engaged. Individually and collectively, both commanders and soldiers, you must feel that you own the Army and want the best for it, because it is you, all of you, that will make the difference."

As COA since March 2007, MG Neo has facilitated the Army's cooperation with other regional armed forces through exercises and professional exchanges. He also played a vital role in overseeing the Army's participation in international peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts in places like Sumatra, China and Afghanistan.

Besides leading the Army in its re-organisation into a more effective fighting force with better tri-service synergy, MG Neo also saw new combat platforms such as the Leopard main battle tanks, the Terrex infantry fighting vehicles and the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) introduced during his tenure as COA.

MG Neo will be taking over as Chief of Defence Force from Lieutenant-General Desmond Kuek, who will return to the Administrative Service. The Change of Command Parade will be held on 1 Apr.

Newly-appointed COA BG Chan joined the SAF in 1987 and was awarded the SAF (Overseas) and President's Scholarship in 1988. His previous appointments in the SAF include Commander 10th Singapore Infantry Brigade, Head Joint Plans and Transformation Department, Commander 9th Division and Chief Infantry Officer, and Chief of Staff - Joint Staff.

The parade featured a march past by 12 contingents formed by soldiers from various Army formations, a drive past by a mobile column, and static displays of the 3rd Generation Army's integrated capabilities.

It was witnessed by the Chief of Defence Force LG Kuek and attended by senior SAF officers and servicemen from the Army.