Mission with a Purpose - "You just know that if something happens, you'd be able to handle it in quick time."
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A Publication of The Republic of Singapore Navy http://www.mindef.gov.sg/navy ISSUE 04 2009 Mission with a Purpose “You just know that if something happens, you’d be able to handle it in quick time.” Man of Steel “I was gasping for air...and glad when it was finally over.”
A Word from CNV
Our 44th National Day Parade was a weather and difficult sea conditions,
resounding success and I would like the successful operation was another
to applaud the hard-working men fine testament to the commitment and
and women from the Navy family that professionalism of our people. In the
contributed to its success. I am also three months that the Task Group was
particularly heartened by the navy’s deployed there, not a single attack
Republic of Singapore Navy enthusiastic contribution to this national occurred in our Task Group’s assigned
event and fine display of our people’s areas of operations during the period
professionalism and capabilities. of our deployment.
To be sure, our full spectrum of The scourge of piracy, however, will
capabilities are more than what we can not abate quickly and there is need for
ever demonstrate during National Day. continued deterrence in the region.
Over the past few years, the RSN has This reinforces the importance of
contributed to the “key building blocks international cooperation, as no single
of the 3rd Generation SAF” that was state has the capabilities or resources
mentioned by Deputy Prime Minister, to address this problem alone.
Mr Teo Chee Hean during an interview
on SAF Day. These contributions include With our successful deployment, we
the commissioning of the Formidable- are honoured that the Combined
class frigates, launching of our Archer- Maritime Forces HQ has requested for
class submarines to the formation of Singapore to consider commanding
the Maritime Security Task Force. In late the Combined Task Force 151
June, we also saw the integration of NDU (CTF 151). We have responded to
and Commandos to form the Special this request and will be sending a
Operations Task Force (SOTF). command team to assume command
of CTF 151 early next year. This is yet
The versatility of the RSN to undertake a another milestone achievement for
wide spectrum of operations was tested the RSN as a reliable maritime partner
during our deployment to the Gulf of that can make a positive international
Aden. The SAF Task Group, comprising contribution to help realise safe and
RSS PERSISTENCE, two Super Puma secure seas for the common good.
RADM Chew Men Leong helicopters, and personnel from Navy,
chief of navy Air Force and Army, was tasked to deter
and disrupt the rampant acts of piracy
that has plagued the international
shipping community. Rising to the
challenge of operating in a distant threat
environment, coupled with adverse
Courtesy
AdM soopakorn booranadiloak cAPt kazuyuki odora
Commander-in-Chief, Royal Thai Fleet Counsellor and Defense Attache
Royal Thai Navy Embassy of Japan
Calls
cAPt Alexander Lopez AvM kevin Paule
Defence and Armed Forces Attache Commander
Embassy of the Philippines Integrated Area Defence System
covEr PAGE Advisor LTC Alan Goh
Photo by CPL Lai Jun Wei Editor LTC Irvin Lim
MEMbErs LTC Eugene Chng | LTC Lim Hock Chye | LTC Spencer Ngui | MAJ Chionh Boon Soo |
MAJ Jan Puah | MAJ Kelvin Chew | MAJ Stanley Lim | Ms Jessica Teo |
bAck PAGE SWO Leong Chee Wah
Photo by CPL Lai Jun Wei ExEcutivE stAff Ms Serena Lim | 1WO Neo Quee Chye | MSG James Chan | CPL Haresh Hari Kumar |
Text by LTC Irvin Lim CPL Lionel Lee | CPL Lai Jun Wei | REC Ben Chester Cheong | REC Gabriel Ong
NAVY NEWS ia 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, call 6768 3367 or email navynews@starnet.gov.sg.
Joint MINEX 12/09
LTC Serene Chua, CO 194 SQN in talks with COL Weddy Widya,
Successful mine detonation by KRI PULAU RENGAT (left) CO MCM SQN West Fleet, TNI-AL and MCMTA Command Team
and RSS KALLANG (right)
The RSN and the Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL) conducted co-operation between the RSN and the TNI-AL. As aptly
the annual bilateral Mine Countermeasure (MCM) put by CO 194 SQN LTC Serene Chua in her closing
exercise, code-named Joint MINEX 12/09, from 29 Jun speech: “This synergy formed had indeed pushed the
to 6 Jul off the eastern coast of Pulau Bintan and in the exercise series to greater heights.”
Singapore Strait. This year marks the 12th in the series
of the exercise. Article contributed by CPT Elvin Teo
New methods of underwater mine disposal were
successfully conducted this year. Instead of simply
attaching explosives to the mines to dispose of them, the
Remote Control Cutter was utilised. The co-ordinated
operation started with the Remote Control Cutter being
fired from RSN’s Mine Countermeasure Vessels, RSS
KALLANG and RSS PUNGGOL, to sever the lines of the
sinker from the simulated moored mine. Thereafter, the
TNI-AL’s Minehunter set off a Mine Disposal Charge on
the surfaced mine.
The successful conduct of the joint operations was made
possible by the good relations and the long-standing
Extending a Helping Hand at ISBS 17/09
CPT (DR) Ian Chen shared: “I’m satisfied that at the end
of this mission, we made a difference to the people of
Pulau Buluh and we had a great time there together as
a team. The TNI-AL medical staff were very friendly and
keen to share their knowledge. They were obliging and
always tried their best to provide us with the optimal
facilities to carry out our duties. Seeing all the sincere and
grateful smiles of the locals definitely made the toils of
this mission all the more worthwhile.”
The RSN and TNI-AL successfully conducted a three- Article contributed by CPT
day socio-civic mission from 3-7 Aug on the remote (DR) Zheng Zhongxi
location of Pulau Buluh, a small outlying island off Batam.
Indo-Sin Bhakti Sosial (ISBS) 17/09 saw personnel from
the Navy Medical Service, RSS DARING and medical
personnel from the other services in the SAF work with
their Indonesian counterparts to provide much needed
medical and dental care for over 1,200 villagers from
Pulau Buluh and its neighbouring islands.
Apart from fruitful medical exchanges between the RSN
and TNI-AL medical teams, the mission also fostered
goodwill with the locals. Beside the onerous task of
transporting medical stores, the medical teams had to
grapple with the high daily patient workload. But despite
the challenges, they benefited from the exposure and
were glad to have made a positive impact to the local
community.
Naval Diving Unit:
An Integral Part of the New SOTF
and so on. So you do need to bring together these
capabilities, develop them in a much more complete,
coherent manner.”
Besides dealing with homeland threats, personnel for the
task force will also be activated for maritime interdiction
operations for vessels suspected of carrying weapons of
mass destruction, as well as evacuation and diverse rescue
operations. At the joint headquarters, the SOTF comprise
planners from the three services to staff the four Staff
Groups – Intelligence, Operations, Planning and Combat
Service Support.
The terrorism threat continues to be real. Without proper To ensure that personnel from these diverse units will
security measures and strategic defences, Singapore will be able to come together to plan and operate as an
not be able to enjoy the peace and prosperity that it has integrated unit when required, they will have to attend
enjoyed over the past decades. Recent events like the the eight-month Joint Special Forces Qualification Course
bombing of JW Marriott and Ritz Carlton Hotel in Jakarta to be trained in the fundamentals of Special Operations.
on 17 Jul reflect the vulnerability of our region to terrorist However, specialised skills training will still be undertaken
threats. by the NDU and Commandos. Similarly, the respective
services will still continue to drive doctrine development in
As part of the 3rd Generation transformation of the SAF, their respective specialised areas.
the Special Operation Task Force (SOTF) was officially
launched by Minister for Education and Second Minister As part of SOTF, NDU will now be better positioned to
for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen on 29 Jun to tackle these serve as an integrated 3rd Generation force in the defence
evolving threats. Comprising elements from the RSN’s of the nation. As COL Tan Tai Tiong, Commander NDU /
Naval Diving Unit (NDU), the Army’s Commandos (CDO) Deputy Commander of SOTF, put it: “We are not losing
and air support from the RSAF, the task force provides the our individual identities as Divers and Commandos, but
SAF with enhanced capabilities to respond to homeland gaining a valuable partner in each other’s skill sets.” ~BC
security threats.
“We develop special units in the Commandos and [Naval]
Diving Unit for distinct missions, but as you can see, many
of these capabilities have much more integrated missions,”
explained Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence
Mr Teo Chee Hean during his interview for SAF Day. “One
of the Special Operations Task Force’s duties is counter-
terrorism – storming buildings, aircraft, ships and so on.
They also have to deal with expanded threats. For example,
we may no longer be dealing only with people with guns,
but you may be dealing with people with very powerful
explosives and various kinds of other substances such as
chemical, radiological, etc. So you need to develop the
capability to deal with these things and you’ll require quite
specialised capabilities. You have to deal with them at sea,
at shore, buildings and aeroplanes, on ships, coastlines
4
SAF Day 2009 – Another Smart Turn-out
This year’s Best Unit awards went out to the various
services. In recognition of her efficiency and excellence
in shipboard matters, the Best Ship award was presented
to RSS VICTORY. Commanding Officer LTC Anthony
Lee received the award from Deputy Prime Minister and
Minister for Defence Mr Teo Chee Hean.
LTC Lee credits the award to the officers and crew of
RSS VICTORY: “Much of the hard work and leadership
came from the ship’s former CO LTC Edwin Leong, and
officers MAJ Choo Wai Kit and MAJ Aaron Beng. They
LTC Anthony Lee (right) receiving the Best Ship Award from Deputy
laid the strong foundations that made winning this award
Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Mr Teo Chee Hean possible.”
The SAF Day Parade, held at SAFTI Military Institute on As a follow-up to the awards presentation ceremony,
1 Jul, saw men and women of the SAF reaffirming their uniformed personnel from all three service formations
pledges of dedication to the SAF and remembering dined together at a reception held at Warrior’s Hall. It
their comrades in arms. Men in uniform marched with was inspiriting to see so many RSN officers and warrant
impeccable sequence and coordination, showcasing the officers dining together. As they ate, many reminisced
best of the SAF. Standing tall and shoulder-to-shoulder about the old days and shared experiences. It was also a
with the best of them were our men in white from the elite special day for the officer promotees as they wore their
NDU forming the Navy Guard-of-Honour contingent. new ranks and there was no better way than to mark it
with the SAF Day celebrations. ~BC
2WO (Ret) A. Muthayya, member of the SAF Veterans’
League who was formerly a naval
engineering officer in 195 SQN
shared: “For me, I have attended
many parades during my 36 years with
the navy. Over the years, the parades
have become more modernised.
Watching the parade now helps me
to relieve many happy memories of
my time in the Navy.”
Presidential Garden Reception 2009
Amidst the loud chatter that filled the air, President S R More than 800 personnel from the SAF and DSTA
Nathan walked amongst the gathered SAF personnel- attended the Presidential Garden Reception, which was
both active servicemen and Operationally Ready National held in the Istana grounds on 13 Jul.
Servicemen. As he thanked them for their efforts and
contributions in ensuring Singapore’s peace and security, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Teo
President Nathan also took time to listen to some of their Chee Hean was also present at the reception. ~GO
views and ‘war’ stories.
Coming Together as
ONE Big Family @ NDP 2009
The floating platform at Marina Bay came alive on 9 Aug Working closely with him in the Parade and Ceremony was
as Singapore celebrated her 44th birthday. The crowds 2WO Cham Gek Peng from 171 SQN as the Conducting
were wowed by the high-speed chase of “terrorists” by Warrant. 2WO Cham said: “My role as a Conducting
our naval divers on board the 11m Rigid-Hull Inflatable Warrant is to give commands for the Guard-of-Honour,
Boats (RHIB) during the Bayshow display in the Pre- Colours party and all marching contingents to pay salute
Parade Segment. to the President in the Parade and Ceremony. This was
a significant role as our precise execution of commands
Each year as the nation celebrates its birthday, a strong ensures that the marching troops were able to execute
military presence is always felt at the parade. Not lacking the required actions with smart sharpness in their drill.”
is the RSN’s participation. Over the years, this presence
has grown significantly. Amongst some of the parade Commending our personnel for their active participation
participants this year was 1WO Eric Tay who parachuted in this year’s NDP, SWO Aloysius Cheong, Chief Warrant
down from the sky as part of the Red Lions. 1WO Tay Navy had this to say: “The journey towards NDP 2009
said: “It’s like a childhood dream come true and I feel requires a lot of personal commitment and sacrifice. The
honoured to be the first RSN representative parachuting fact that for NDP 2009, there were so many firsts for RSN
for NDP. Due to the excitement prior to the show day, shows that our people are grounded on the right values
I experienced sleepless nights before the jumps at the and take pride in holding high the Navy’s flag for our nation.
Marina.” At every rehearsal, I felt proud to see the determination
on the faces of all the participants in exemplifying the
Ensuring that the Colours Party, which comprised the professionalism of the RSN. The sea display team, all the
three state colours and 35 Regimental Colours from parade participants, and those who worked behind the
the Army, Navy and Air Force, with precision was 1WO scenes to support them, all contributing as ONE Navy
Lawrence Jeremiah from NDU, who is this year’s Colours Family.”
Regimental Sergeant Major. Though a veteran of past
parades, he still looked forward to this year’s parade. He The successful conduct of each annual parade takes a
shared: “This year’s NDP was a special one for me as my huge effort with many hours of practice and hard work.
son was able to witness my involvement in the National As we wish Singapore another Happy Birthday, cheers
Education show for Primary Five students.” to our men and women out there who helped make it a
memorable NDP bash! ~HK
9 Aug, 8:22 pm NDP Pledge Moment
Units from across the RSN also joined in the National Day Pledge Taking at 8:22 pm on 9 Aug, regardless of their
location.
RSS ENDEAVOUR at South China Sea
RSS GALLANT pledge moment IMOS pledge moment RSS TENACIOUS at South China Sea
Pacific Partnership 09 - Tonga Outreach
Working with counterparts from other countries and
NGOs, the team shuttled from the USNS Richard E.
Byrd to shore daily, where they attended to around 500
patients at the Niu’ Ui Hospital each time. They tended
to the primary healthcare needs of the local population,
and provided medical education and training on issues
such as first-aid, birth control and smoking cessation.
Other community services that PP09 provided include
testing of potable water quality, eradicating mosquito
breeding sites, treating sick animals and restoring old
schools.
SSG Kevyn Yeo shared: “I learnt many new things from
this deployment and gained a new insight working with
my counterparts from the other navies. I realised how
Following lessons learnt after the 2004 Boxing Day fortunate we all are that we should learn to treasure
Tsunami, the US Pacific Command started Pacific what we have. It was really an enriching experience for
Partnership (PP) to help improve partner nations’ capacity me and I’m thankful that I got the chance to make a
to collaborate and deliver effective humanitarian difference in the lives of others, one way or another.”
assistance and disaster relief. In support of the same
cause, the RSN’s Navy Medical Service has been a After the Tonga phase of the mission, USNS Richard E.
regular participant since 2006. This year, MAJ (DR) Ho Byrd and the team proceeded to the Solomon Islands,
Boon Hor and SSG Kevyn Yeo were deployed from 13- Kiribati and finally, the Marshall Islands for the rest of the
16 Jul to Ha’apai, Tonga, one of the venues for PP09. deployment before heading back to Guam.
Article contributed by MAJ (DR) Ho Boon Hor
A New Commander for MSTF
On 3 Jul, outgoing Commander Maritime Security Task Jackson Chia: “Jackson will make a fabulous commander
Force RADM Tan Wee Beng took a final tour of Tuas for MSTF. Under his charge, and with the team that is
Naval Base and bade farewell to the crews of the Mine now assembled at MSTF, there is absolutely no doubt
Countermeasure Vessels (MCMVs) and the Patrol Vessels that MSTF will more than achieve its Full Operational
(PVs). Capability next year.”
In his farewell speech, RADM Tan thanked the In his speech, COL Chia attributed the successful
people of MSTF for their efforts transformation of COSCOM to MSTF to the leadership
and shared: “It is not our of RADM Tan and promised to take MSTF to greater
achievements or the work heights. With confidence, he asserted: “I promise I will
that I will miss; it is our spirit do my utmost to listen, to learn and to lead. I know that
of facing difficulties together as I face each tough decision, the priority must be what is
and overcoming them, even if best for MSTF and for our people.”
we fail, that I shall miss.”
CNV RADM Chew Men Leong officiated the Change of
He also welcomed the Command Ceremony. ~GO
incoming commander COL
NDU Chief Warrant Officer
Change-of-Appointment Ceremony
The Naval Diving Unit witnessed its Chief Warrant Officer retires. He has been mentoring me since we met in 1977
Change-of-Appointment Ceremony on 6 Jul as MWO when I enlisted into the RSN.”
Wong Keng Tuck handed
over the baton to MWO MWO Wong is well-known
Chew Chong Kuan – a man as a people-orientated
who is no stranger to NDU CWO. His easy-going
and the RSN. attitude helped to create
an open sharing culture
MWO Chew shared in within NDU. He retires
his incoming speech: from distinguished service
“NDU has had to develop after 36 years in the RSN
many different skills and and will definitely be
capabilities because of missed by everyone in
our unique role and inter- NDU and the RSN.
operable missions. It will
definitely be a loss for NDU MWO Wong Keng Tuck (right) handing over the baton Article contributed by
as MWO Wong Keng Tuck to MWO Chew Chong Kuan (left) 1WO Tan Hong Boon
SAFOS – Future Leaders in the Making, Now
MID Chua is looking forward to the experience of
stepping into a whole new world of learning. “It’s not
just about exposure, but actually immersing oneself into
the new culture and environment. I look forward to being
more independent, travelling to different places, meeting
new friends who come from different backgrounds,
understanding other cultures, and more
importantly, realise how differently things
can be defined and done in the world out
there.”
“The efforts of my instructors to expose
MID Chua Sheng Hao receiving his commissioning sword me to the many pertinent issues which
and scholarship from Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for the Navy is facing currently allowed me
Defence Mr Teo Chee Hean
to gain new insights and perspectives,
and greater clarity of the intricacies
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Mr Teo of the organisation,” reflects MID
Chee Hean presented six young men the SAF Overseas Chua. “The advice for personal
Scholarships (SAFOS) at a ceremony in the Istana on 11 development by my instructors
Aug. enabled me to constantly reflect
on my strengths, weaknesses and
Among the outstanding recipients was the RSN’s MID areas for improvement. The
Chua Sheng Hao. “I feel honoured and excited about tough training I have received
being awarded the SAFOS. Excited, because it opens up reinforces in me the importance
many windows of opportunity for self-development and of high standards I must uphold
exposure. Honoured, because it reaffirms the sense of in all I do.” ~LL
duty in fulfilling the role I must play in the defence of my
country,” MID Chua proudly said.
4 RSN Officers and Officer Cadets receive
SAF Merit Scholarships
Two RSN officers and two Midshipmen were amongst
twenty recipients who received the scholarships from
Minister for Education and Second Minister for Defence
Dr Ng Eng Hen at the Temasek Club on 18 Aug. 2LT Lim
Shi Hong, LTA Tan Xun Yong, MID Charisia Ong and MID
Keef Lin were awarded the SAF Merit Scholarship (SMS).
Both MID Ong and MID Lin were also commissioned at
the ceremony and received their commissioning sword
from Dr Ng. Exclaimed MID Charisia: “I’m very grateful to
the Navy and the SAF for giving me such an unparalleled
opportunity! I will definitely work hard in both my studies
and my career, contributing to the best of my capabilities
so as to do them both proud.”
LTA Tan Xun Yong, who will be studying Aeronautical
Engineering at Imperial College, happily piped: “I’m
honoured and immensely grateful to all those who
mentored me, I cannot thank them enough.”
Introduced in 1983, the SMS gives top students a golden
opportunity to study in renowned overseas universities and
grooms them for senior command appointments in the
SAF. To qualify for the SAF Merit Scholarship, applicants
must have good academic and military performance as
Proud scholarship recipients: LTA Tan Xun Yong, 2LT Lim Shi well as strong leadership qualities. ~GO
Hong, MID Keef Lin, MID Charisia Ong (Clockwise from left)
9
Leaping Ahead with SAF Learning Festival
Today, Gen Y soldiers form a significant portion of most
modern militaries, with the young generation of recruits
being more inquisitive, enthusiastic and, some might say,
“restless”. It was thus of no surprise that this year’s SAF
Learning Festival 3G focused on the mentality, goals and
methods of trainings developed by commanders to reach
out to and train their men more effectively.
Held at SAFTI MI, the inaugural SAF Learning Festival
took place on 25-26 Jun with CDF LG Desmond Kuek more inquisitive than in the past. He highlighted: “One
as the Guest-of-Honour. Each service set up booths to takeaway I hope participants will receive is we have to put
showcase the tools and methodologies for training in in deliberate effort to nurture and engage our men and
Warriors Hall. Some of those booths set up by the RSN not leave it to chance.”
included IMOS and Dive School. In addition, the Damage
Control and System Training Simulator and the Full Ship The 3rd Rimland Pacific Superintendents’ Conference
Simulator were also set up for participants to have a (RPSC) was also held during the same period and the
‘hands-on’ experience. participants toured the SAF Learning Festival. Held
to establish close ties and communications amongst
Commander TRACOM COL Tan Wei Ming gave a navies operating in the Pacific Rim, the conference saw
talk on “Transforming Training in RSN” on 26 Jun and participants coming from Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia,
touched on the changes in training pedagogy and the Philippines, Thailand, United States, as well as its host,
new challenges faced. For instance, today’s soldiers are Singapore. ~GO
Safety First @ NALCOM Occupational
Safety and Health Day 09
Screeching of cars was heard at Tuas
Naval Base on the morning of 22 Jul.
They were part of a demonstration by
Bukit Batok Driving Centre (BBDC) on
how accidents take place and the steps
that can be taken to ensure motorists
remain safe in such situations. The
Road Safety Awareness programme
conducted was organised as part of
the NALCOM Occupational Safety
and Health Day 09.
SWO Phui Peng Sim shared: “Some of us have been Commander NALCOM COL Low Yong Joo used a poem
driving for years and we never get to see how the Anti- - “He who choose to look another way” to reiterate
Lock Braking System works or see a car losing control. the importance of safety. During the seminar, COL Low
With BBDC’s demonstration today, we got to understand also handed out appointment letters to all the unit
the distance it required commanding officers, reflecting the strong management
to brake effectively and emphasis on safety.
the danger of speeding.
I certainly enjoyed this The seminar ended with an awards presentation to
segment.” winners for the Best Unit Safety Committee award, the
Unit Accident Free award, Best Unit Safety Committee
This was followed by the Secretary, Spot the Hazard competition and Safety Quiz
Safety Seminar in the competition.
afternoon at the Tuas
Naval Base auditorium. Article contributed by MWO Wong Kai Meng
In his opening address,
10RSN Officers Clinch Book Prizes at
US Naval War College
MAJ Ang receiving the Jerome MAJ Kwan receiving the Captain
MAJ Ang with his classmates on Graduation Day E. Levy Award Plaque Walter B. Woodson Memorial Prize
Think being in the Navy limits you to the waters? Well, Centre attacks also gave MAJ Kwan a fresh perspective
think again! Two naval officers, MAJ Ang Chee Wee and of international issues.
MAJ Kwan Hon Chuong, got a first-hand view of the New
York Fire Department, the Federal Reserve Bank and the “It was a very memorable experience that let me build
Senator’s office in Washington D.C during their studies at numerous friendships with military officers from all over
the US Naval War College. the world. I had 37 officers from 35 different countries in
my class, including the present Chief of Naval Operations
MAJ Ang began his study in Jul 08, which included of Suriname (a country in South America)- the equivalent
modules such as National Security & Decision Making, of our CNV!“ recalled MAJ Kwan fondly.
Strategy and War, Joint Military Operations, South-
East Asian Security, International Maritime Law and The two RSN officers did the Navy proud when they won
Counter-terrorism studies. Classroom lessons were three Book Prizes, awards which recognised outstanding
complemented by visits to places like the Federal Reserve professional research and writing. MAJ Ang won the
Bank, the Smithsonian museums and the Kennedy Space Zimmerman-Gray Naval Staff College International Prize
Centre. From the course, MAJ Ang achieved a better and the Jerome E. Levy Economic Geography and World
understanding of various military strategies, thus better Order Prize whilst MAJ Kwan won the Captain Walter B.
positioning him for future appointments. Woodson Memorial Prize. MAJ Ang was also one of only
two who won two prizes in his cohort. Both RSN officers
In summer, MAJ Ang also seized the opportunity to received their prizes on Graduation Day, 18 Jun, from
earn his keelboat skipper licence and took to sailing in the President of the US Naval War College, RADM Phil
Narragansett Bay with his buddies on weekends. He Wisecup.
even went skiing on various New England ski mountains
with his college-mates and their families. All these MAJ Ang quipped: “With so many takeaways from the
shared experiences allowed MAJ Ang to strengthen the course, winning the two essay prizes was really just a
camaraderie built with his college-mates. bonus!” ~GO
For MAJ Kwan, his journey began in Jan this year. Besides
providing an opportunity to interact with students from
all over the world, the course also equipped MAJ Kwan
with knowledge in military history, joint operations, as
well as leadership and managerial skills. He affirmed:
”For instance, studying International Law gave me a
better understanding of how different countries interpret
international law.” Visits to Gettysburg, where a significant
battle of the US Civil War was fought, and sharings by the
New York Fire Department on the Sep 11 World Trade
11PERSISTENCE against
As a maritime nation, Singapore is committed to
supporting the international counter-piracy efforts in
the Gulf of Aden. The successful deployment of the
Task Group has demonstrated that Singapore can make
a useful and meaningful contribution to these efforts,”
said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Mr
Teo Chee Hean at the Overseas Service Medal Ceremony
at Changi Naval Base on 31 Jul after RSS PERSISTENCE
returned home from a four-month deployment to the
Gulf of Aden for counter-piracy operations.
296 servicemen from the Army, Navy and Air Force
took part in anti-piracy operations together with RSS
PERSISTENCE and two RSAF Super Puma helicopters.
With temperatures reaching 50° Celsius, they operated
under the ambit of the Combined Task Force (CTF) 151,
where they conducted sector patrols to deter pirate
attacks.
Two months were spent getting the whole task group
together, with training beginning in February. CO 191 SQN
COL Tan Kai Cheong, who was also Mission Commander
Task Group for the second leg of the deployment said:
“It was the first time that we were sending assets and
resources from all three services for such an extended
operation. We had to establish common procedures. In
the initial period, we did have some different opinions,
but we eventually gelled together, working towards our
vision of a ONE SAF.”
CPT Shaun Matthew, a Super Puma Pilot added: “We have
two organisations with such long and varied histories.
Undoubtedly, there will be differences in working style, but
the important thing is that we overcame whatever small
differences we had. We made the best of systems, and we
reached a compromise on board. But the important thing
to note is that both communities were eager to resolve
matters as quickly as possible and get down to the real
business of disruption and deterrence.”
The Task Group responded to 57 calls for assistance
and launched 80 helicopter sorties for surveillance and
deterrence operations. During its deployment, the
number of successful pirate attacks fell from seven in
April to two in May and one in June. Of significance, not a
single attack occurred in the Task Group’s assigned areas.
The ship also provided advisories to transiting merchant
ships and acted as a communications node between the
Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) Headquarters, CTF
151 and other ships on their own national tasking such as
those from China and India.
Acknowledging their contributions, Commander CTF 151
RADM Caner Bener commented: “RSS PERSISTENCE’s
deployment was a critical contribution, not only to counter-
12Piracy in the Gulf of Aden
piracy operations, but also to enhance the coalition
efforts in the region. I have observed her professional
and safe conduct across the spectrum of missions. RSS
PERSISTENCE has been committed throughout and her
presence has directly contributed to enhancing safety
along the sea lines of communication along the Gulf of
Aden.”
In addition, the SAF has been given the opportunity to
work with other navies operating in the region. It has
agreed to the CMF HQ’s request to command CTF
151. From Jan-Mar 2010, a Singaporean naval officer,
supported by a core command group, will take command
and coordinate military efforts to tackle piracy.
This deployment was certainly a special one for MSG Cher
Heng Boon, a Communications Specialist, who replaced
a colleague who had fallen ill just one week before the
deployment. MSG Cher, who had spent almost five years
in the Naval Operations Department said: “I had to gel
in and work with the officers and my senior colleagues,
learning my roles, responsibilities and the things I needed
to do to support them. While transiting, I had to pick up
the skills which the person I replaced assimilated over the
two months training .”
SSG Samantha Chen, an Engineering Naval Specialist
from RSS PERSISTENCE recalled a particular moment
which stuck with her. “There was once a stand-to pipe
late at night, which occurs when there is a threat to the
ship. Everyone was was up and ready at their respective
stations ready with their anti-flash gear awaiting further
instructions in less than five minutes. This showed how
ready the crew was. It was a pretty reassuring thing. You
just know that if something happens, you’d be able to
handle it in quick time.”
1MSG Cher Heng Boon (left) receiving his medal from LTC Richard Lim (left) receiving his medal from CO PERSISTENCE LTC Lim Chee Peng (left) receiving
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Mr Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Mr his unit citation from Deputy Prime Minister and
Teo Chee Hean (right) Teo Chee Hean (right) Minister for Defence Mr Teo Chee Hean (right)
Operations Officer MAJ Chang Chiz Hau said: “I was
excited about our positive response to the situation in
the Gulf of Aden. We are doing our part to assist the
international community by enhancing security. This
shows that Singapore is a responsible member of the
international community. I am happy and proud to be
able to contribute to this noble mission, by playing my
part within the task group.”
SSG Chen added: “I would definitely encourage others to
volunteer for future deployments. Although we didn’t see
a lot of action or face to face confrontation, we still made
a difference in the waters. It was a very good learning
experience. You shouldn’t be stuck to your unit all the
time. You should see what the other forces are able to
provide and are capable of. You never know until you
work together.” ~JW
Backpaddle
The RSN has had a long history in counter-piracy operations. Back when the Malayan Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve
operated, HMS PANGLIMA assisted the Marine Police in carrying anti-bandit patrols in the Johore River and off
the Pengerang Peninsula. Co-operative efforts with neighbouring countries started off extensively in 1992 with the
establishment of the Indonesia-Singapore Co-ordinated Patrol.
A collective will to secure the safety and openness of the Malacca Strait also saw the Indonesian, Malaysian and Singapore
navies, and subsequently the Thai navy, come together to combat piracy along the Straits of Malacca and Singapore
under the Malacca Straits Patrols in 2005. Regional maritime security co-operation between these littoral states have
since increased with the successful reduction of piracy cases in the area. ~JW
14Sub Way Mee Rebus!
Mee rebus (serves 4-6 people)
ingredients
• 200 grams of salted beans paste
• 100 grams dried prawns
• 1/2 pieces onions
• 50 grams ginger
• 50 grams curry powder
• 50 grams chilli paste
• 6 hard boiled eggs
• 10 grams coriander leaves
• 2 sliced green chilli
• 10 pieces tau pok
• 6 pieces limes
• 100 grams sugar
• 100 grams corn flour
• 5 pieces garlics
• 1 kilogram of yellow noodles
• 200 grams of ground peanuts
• 5 stalks of pandan leaf
Even in the galley where I was cooking, I could still feel the chill. It was
instructions for preparation of gravy: even worse outside the submarine. During my time there, I also learnt
• Grind the dried prawns, onions, gingers and garlics together. Grind some Swedish style of cooking but somehow when I cook it for my
the salted beans into paste form separately. colleagues, they prefer my Singaporean fare. It was also difficult to get
• Heat the frying pan with oil. Fry the dried prawns, onions, gingers Swedish rations to cook on board the submarine. But the experience
and garlics together with pandan leaf. Then, pour in the ground was quite meaningful.
bean paste together with some pandan leaves. Subsequently, add
two litres of hot water and allow the mixture to boil. Once it is •do you cook at home? What do you usually cook at home?
boiling, add in curry powder and sugar and adjust accordingly to I cook for my family only when they request for me to do so or they have
the desired taste. a craving for my Mee Rebus or Mee Siam. My mother-in-law and my
• Next, pour in corn flour to make the gravy starchy. Lastly, add the family members especially love my Mee Siam. I think it is because there
ground peanuts. is a special peanut taste to my Mee Siam that makes the difference.
instructions for preparation of noodles:
• Boil one pot of hot water. Put the noodles in and ensure that the •What is your favourite food or secret indulgence if you are left on
noodles are half-cooked before refreshing the noodles with normal a deserted island alone?
temperature water. I will love to have rice served generously with char siew and roasted
instructions for preparation of toppings: pork. It is my favourite food and I always love to have such a meal
• Cut the tau pok into small cubes and deep fry. Slice all the hard without having to worry about anything else.
boiled eggs into half.
• Slice the green chilli into small pieces. •What do you usually prepare for the team whenever they feel
to serve: down or are experiencing a tough exercise?
• Put the tau pok (deep fired first), hard boiled eggs, green chilli, I will usually prepare herbal tea or a special makan / dessert to cheer
coriander leaves on the noodles. the team up.
• Lastly, pour the gravy on the noodles and serve.
•it can be difficult sometimes having to prepare food for over thirty
people in the submarine. How do you cope with the pressure?
sub Way Mee rebus! I am fortunate to have a crew that is co-operative and helpful. The
Chief Chef SSG Alex Teo from RSS CONQUEROR truly knows how to tough part is the loading of rations on board the submarine. My crew
conquer his crew’s hearts with his culinary skills. SSG Teo joined the RSN never fails to lend me a helping hand. They also understand that I am
as a regular after secondary school and was attached at the Sembawang the only chef on board the submarine and it is a one-man show. I always
Camp as a Junior Chef. While there, he learnt the fine art of cooking feel a part of the team and my crew members serve as my source of
from his seniors. He subsequently served as a chef on board the Coastal inspiration whenever I feel down.
Patrol Craft (CPC), Landing Ship Tank (LST), Patrol Craft (PC) and Patrol
Vessel (PV) before heading to Sweden for a two-year submarine course. •What advice do you have for aspiring chefs interested to join the
Upon his return, he served on board RSS CENTURION before assuming Navy?
his current appointment as a chef on board RSS CONQUEROR in I will let them know that serving on board a ship or a submarine is a
2006. totally different experience. They need to be prepared for a change
in cooking environment, like having a smaller place to work in. But the
•What is your specialty dish and why? career is very rewarding. We end up being part of a special close-knitted
My specialty dish is Mee Rebus. I remember learning how to cook the community of sailors where there is always warmth, care and concern.
local dish from my Chief Chef during my first posting on board the CPCs.
Over the years, I made many improvements to the dish. The dish I serve •About the dish
today is more tasty and there is a sour tinge – an assam taste to it. The dish that SSG Alex Teo cooked was Mee Rebus. It had a very
generous serving of thick gravy and well-cooked noodles. At first sight,
•How is it like serving on board a submarine? the dish was very mouth-watering. The first mouthful was paradise. The
It is a unique experience. I don’t get to see the sun until our exercise is gravy was thick, had a special peanut taste to it and was not too spicy. In
over. It’s like living in a compartment, isolated from the rest of the world. fact, it was so delectable that I couldn’t resist it. The fried tau pok which
Unlike serving on board the PV, where it is a surface vessel, I also have were carefully sliced into cube form added the crunch to the dish. It
to dive as part of our new requirement. literally melted in the mouth and allowed the lingering taste of the gravy
to last longer. The gravy was sweet and the coriander leaves added a
•How would you describe your experience in sweden? slight sour taste to the dish which made it perfect for the taste buds.
During my course in Sweden, I learnt the fundamentals of becoming The noodles were neither hard nor soft. It went well with the gravy. On
a submariner. During the winter periods, I had to wear extra clothing. the whole, we would rate the dish CCC . ~BC
1CLEAN BOTTOM SWEEP for
WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY
NDU commemorated World Environment Day on 5 Jun
by doing their part to curb marine pollution. Divers from
NDU came together to clean up their seafront training
area. They donned their full diving gear and cleared
out the debris on the beach and along the Sembawang
coastline.
Some of the debris found included wooden logs and
glass chips, which may harm the divers during training
sessions, especially during night trainings. Much of the
varied debris float into the training grounds due to the
strong currents and the shipping wharves located in
the north of Singapore. Although dangerous debris are
removed whenever they float to the shores of NDU’s
camp, however, much debris still can be found at the
bottom of the seabed. At the end of the clean-up effort,
the divers who were tasked with the underwater seabed
were amazed by the amount of trash they managed to
collect and felt that it was truly a worthwhile experience.
The clean-up efforts not only provided NDU with a cleaner
and safer training area, but also helped promote greater
awareness among NDU staff about the importance of
preserving and protecting our natural environment. ~BC
Battle Ship!
1IMOS Celebrates Orange Ribbon
Racial Harmony
Singapore commemorated Racial Harmony Day 2009 On 21 Jul itself, IMOS’s instructors, permanent staff and
with the National Orange Ribbon Celebrations. The aim trainees conducted a host of activities like performances,
of the event was to encourage the public to appreciate exhibition, poster-making competition and quizzes that
and celebrate our cultural diversity. There were many reflected the racial harmony theme. There was also a talk
activities organised and one of them involved participants given by the Singapore History Consultants on past racial
pledging their support for racial harmony by penning incidents in the military context, and a sharing by LTC Lee
down their thoughts on strips of coloured paper which Kien Tian, Commander IMOS, on his reflections about
were then folded into ‘Stars’. the importance racial harmony in today’s society. As LTC
Lee put it: “Racial Harmony cannot be taken for granted.
As part of the Institute of Maritime Operations and Systems It must be sustained through inclusiveness to maintain
(IMOS) Racial Harmony Day observance programme, the our common space, and a consciousness not to lapse
trainees and staff pledged a total of 504 ‘Stars’ to the into insensitivity that can marginalise others.” Overall,
event. It was indeed heartening to see the enthusiastic the event was meaningful as aptly expressed by a trainee,
efforts and the meaningful messages written reflecting PTE Yap Wei Yao: “This is my first time participating in
the adopted theme. All 150,000 ‘Stars’ collected were Racial Harmony day at IMOS and being part of the
placed in a nine-feet star-shaped structure, which was Orange Ribbon Celebrations. It makes me proud to be
unveiled by Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew at Bishan actively involved in such a meaningful event.”
Active Park on 18 Jul, where the contributions of the RSN
and other organisations were recognised. Article contributed by SSG Chan Kok Leong
Down the MERDEKA Memory trail...
As the nation’s 44th birthday approached, it was timely
to reflect upon Singapore’s journey on achieving
independence on 9 Aug 65. As part of a National
Education (NE) Tour, personnel from the Navy Medical
Service (NMS) embarked on “The Merdeka Trail” on 30
Jul, where they visited heritage sites like the Battle Box
at Fort Canning, Civil Defence Heritage Gallery and the
Civilian War Memorial.
Over at the Battle Box, they got a “behind the scene”
look at the exchanges that took place between General
Percival and his senior officers before he surrendered
Singapore to the Japanese. This part of the tour struck a
chord with 3SG Chu Yan Long. He said: “The background an understanding of the tradition of recognising the
behind the surrender of Singapore allowed me to sacrifices made by our soldiers.
understand why our defence can never be entrusted
to others and now, I am able to better understand the After the tour, an inspired Mr Linggam remarked: “This
importance of my role in serving National Service.” tour provided an insight into the challenges Singapore
faced before gaining independence and that besides
A visit to the Civilian War Memorial, which remembered the SAF, it is also the responsibility of every citizen to
the massacred civilians, further reinforced the lesson protect and ensure that Singapore’s independence is
learnt for the need of a strong SAF to ensure Singapore’s safeguarded at all times.”
citizens never suffer the same fate again. Their final
stop at the Cenotaph near City Hall provided them with Article contributed by Mr Benson Soong
1Big Cost-
Savings with
Simple GPS
Idea
GPS antenna just above the bridge of the MCV
GPS antenna on Ship Mast
The operational readiness of our ships is critical in the GPS antenna just above the bridge of the MCV
maintaining an ever-ready and vigilant RSN. One key (which is nearest the GPS receiver), the GPS antenna can
component that helps ships to navigate safely through be made operational within a day. Since the task can be
the waters is the Global Positioning System (GPS). It is a carried out in harbour, the RSN can also save on the huge
system that provides information on the ship’s positional cost (which can run up to a five-figure sum) incurred when
data such as Latitude/Longitude, Course Heading and a ship enters the Floating Dock.
Speed Over Ground.
“This method reduces the defect turn-a-round time for
In the past, a Missile Corvette (MCV) with a malfunctioning the affected ship and at the same time, improves the
GPS had to return to the floating dock or shipyard for operational readiness of the ship. The affected ship
a staging to be rigged up so that its GPS antenna on can sail for operations and exercises with the modified
the upper mast could be reached. Apart from weather configuration and does not have to return to the
conditions, repairs was also dependent on the availability floating dock or yard to replace the defective antenna.
of the Flocking Dock. As a result, the process was usually The proper replacement can be done during the ship’s
long and inefficient. Worst still, the scheduled maintenance,” SSG
affected MCV had to be taken out of Leow elaborated.
operations during this time.
So efficient was the idea that it led
In a bid to reduce the downtime, to a spin-off onto other platforms
SSG Leow Siek Chang from Tuas like the Patrol Vessels, thus leading
Maintenance Base explored alternative to greater cost savings for the RSN!
solutions, discovering that by mounting ~GO
1RSN’s Formation Culture & Practices
NALCOM Core Values - Shines Through Time & Again
Former Commander NALCOM COL (Ret) Ting Tong Koi leading the LTC Loke Yong (left) receiving the Pledge of Commitment from
pledge with RADM (Ret) James Leo looking on in 1991 COL Sng Yeow Liang (right)
The letters N-A-L-C-O-M possess a deeper meaning to The NALCOM’s core values has enabled NALCOM to
personnel from the Naval Logistics Command (NALCOM) exceed expectations and deliver the desired outcomes
than simply being the acronym for their formation. Then as well as to excel and be ready for the future.
Commander NALCOM COL (Ret) Ting Tong Koi had led
the creation and formulation of NALCOM’s core values Article contributed by SWO Phui Peng Sim
from Oct 1989 to Jul 1995. Representing NALCOM’s
drive for excellence, the six values – Never give up,
Always be prepared, Lead by example, care and respect,
one and all, and Make things happen – has produced
a culture of can-do attitude within NALCOM. The core
values also complement the Pledge of Commitment that
all NALCOM’s commander and unit commanders have
taken since its inception on 1 Jan 1986.
“Besides reminding us that we are one of the important
pillars in the RSN, more importantly, our core values also
influence our behaviour towards our daily approach to
work,” said Mr Koh Hark Boon from NALCOM. “One of the
challenges that we face is to have more engagements for
the younger generation to understand the organisation’s
purpose, values & culture. To overcome this, we organise The pledge of commitment reads as follows:
activities likes Cohesion day, BEST month (TMB only), Unit
Comms Forum and Focus Group Tea Session with NC to
embrace our values and also to share our experiences, “ ..... pledge that I, together with my officers, men and
either in work or personal life.” women, aim to
be a strong pillar of support in the Republic of
From providing the support for the high operational Singapore Navy.
readiness of the RSN’s ships, to ensuring the success
of missile firings, to the massive undertaking of putting We strive to provide quality support, by being
together the RSN Open House, NALCOM personnel responsive,
have constantly drawn on these core values to overcome innovative and professional in our work.
the diverse challenges. This is evident in the many
achievements and accolades awarded to the NALCOM At all times, we will uphold and cherish our Core Values.
in meeting RSN and SAF’s missions. One such award
We will Never Give Up, Always be Prepared, Lead by
would be the MINDEF Excellence Award received by
CMB from 2007 to 2009, as well as numerous innovation Example,
awards such as NMTB’s ammo loading solutions at the Care and Respect, One and All and Make Things
MINDEF PRIDE Day 2009. Happen. ”
19Iron Man
With Steel in his Soul!
Over the years, Navy News has featured many stories Chartered Singapore
on Navy personnel who have taken part in marathons, marathon that year. A
biathlons and triathlons. But never has there been a year later, in 2006, he took
feature on someone participating in two full triathlons in on his first IRONMAN triathlon in
a space of seven days while braving the chilly weathers of Western Australia. It would be his first
Europe. Five-timer IRONMAN competitor, SSG Tai Wei international participation and the first
Jie is this special someone made of sterner stuff. Perhaps of five IRONMAN triathlons that he has
a more befitting accolade for his achievements would be since conquered. One would never
Man of Steel! expect that SSG Tai was once a bookish
librarian in his secondary school days.
For most of us, 4 am in the morning is an He detested swimming and would try
ungodly hour to wake up; what more if it to find all sorts of excuses to avoid that
is for exercise! You may call it extreme sport. Now, there is no stopping this
passion or pure insanity but nothing human dynamo.
will change the fervour this 29-year
old has for his triathlons. Throw in SSG Tai recalls his most recent
72 km of cycling from Jurong to IRONMAN Nice, France competition
Changi Naval Base and rushing to on 28 Jun and IRONMAN Klagenfurt,
make sure he is in time for colours Austria competition on 5 Jul most
at 8 am every day and you can see vividly. He said: “For the France
how dedicated SSG Tai is towards competition, the elevation went up to
his training. 1,120m at the Col de l’Ecre segment, similar to
a 21 km cycle up Mount Faber, on much more
He has no qualms about burning challenging terrain.” Thankfully, SSG Tai found
precious annual leave to go to Malaysia the downhill portion a breeze, where he
to cycle and he spends his weekends could hit 60 km/h on some stretches. Running
running 18 to 24 km around Pandan Reservoir. was SSG Tai’s strength and he never had a
He swims every Tuesday with his professional problem with it. He managed to complete the 42.2 km
coach and most of the swim sessions are gruelling and run for the French competition in 4 hours and in 3 hours
harsh. He used to take over 50 minutes to swim 1.5 km and 45 minutes for the Austrian competition. The tough
but can now swim the same distance in about half the part was the swim as it was extremely chilly. SSG Tai said:
time. “I was gasping for air at certain portions and I was glad
when it was finally over.” His enthusiasm for sports have
His interest was sparked when he saw a Navy News article seen him constantly searching for novel techniques to
back in May 2005 about another IRONMAN enthusiast improve his timing. In fact, he shared that his colleagues
- COL Giam Hock Koon, CO 185 SQN. SSG Tai had long see him as the “sports guru” and frequently seek his
thought COL Giam to be a sedentary person and was advice and tips. So, do not be surprised to see this T-
surprised when it was revealed that COL Giam actually MAX “Ironman” leading his colleagues on runs around
takes part in triathlons. Since then, there was no turning Changi Maintenance Base. ~BC
back for SSG Tai.
He started with his fanatic pursuit of long distance races
in 2005; his first national marathon was the Standard
20Rowing to Victory
During the Singapore Dragon Boat Festival held on 27 & Despite his job commitments demand, LTA Wong still
28 Jun at the Marina Barrage, our SAFSA Dragon Boat ensures that he finds time to train religiously to keep up
team defeated 31 other local and international teams to his level of fitness. In fact, he is looking forward to the
emerge the 1st for the most competitive 20-men Open upcoming competitions, such as the Singapore River
category. The last time the SAFSA team won this title Regatta 2009, to push himself further. As he puts it: “You
was in 2000, and since then it has been dominated by must have a love for team sports and have a never-say-
the local tertiary powerhouses. The mixed team also die attitude as it will be an uphill battle once you start
achieved a commendable result of 3rd place in the 20- rowing.”
Mixed category.
CPL Tan Hui Bin from NDU, who has been rowing for five
Navy News talks to three of the RSN’s very own personnel years, picked up the sport because he wanted to keep
involved in this intriguing and demanding sport. himself in shape. The bonds developed with his team
had him coming back for more; and soon he was hooked.
“I took up Dragon Boating back in Polytechnic when I was Sharing his thoughts of the sport, he says: “It pushes
in the Temasek Polytechnic Dragon Boat Team, and when your limits to a higher level both mentally and physically.
I came to the Navy, I got to know the manager back then, During a race, you are not rowing alone, but for the team
SSG Low, who asked me to row for SAFSA,” says LTA - in the same boat as you. If you cut short a stroke or don’t
Wong Khang Wee from MSTF. “Dragon Boating is a team put in 100%, that may cause your team to lose. You have
sport and builds both physical and mental endurance, to learn to trust that the team is giving their best and that
and this is what inspired me to take it up.” you must do the same for them.”
The training schedule is split into two types of seasonal Echoing his thoughts is SSG Chen Xiu Qing from RSS
training – peak and off-peak. During the off-peak season, PERSISTENCE, who is in the SAFSA Dragon Boat
the training is mostly self-motivated, like going to the gym Women’s team: “Being a member of the team, you learn
and running to keep up the physical fitness and stamina not to give up when everything is set against you. Your
of the individual. The team will then meet once a week shoulders, arms and back are screaming at you to stop,
on Saturday to row together to build strong bonds and the sight of another boat overtaking you, and your morale
synchronise team effort. During the two peak seasons, is down in the pits... So what do you do? You row as hard
in June and December, the team will meet four times a as you possibly can because nobody else in your boat
week to train, on land and in the water, to build up their is stopping. You cannot let anybody, especially yourself
stamina and hone their rowing skills. down.” ~LL
21NDU Nets RSN Basketball Competition
The RSN Basketball Inter-Group
Competition (IGC) 2009 was held at
Changi Naval Base Sports Complex
from 13 to 20 Jul. Held yearly, the
enthusiastic players from all walks of
the NAVY family gave their utmost
support in the competition. The
Inter-Group matches played were
marked by numerous instances of
impressive ball skills, strong team
spirit and good sportsmanship
amidst the fierce competition
between FLEET, NALCOM, NDU,
TRACOM and MSTF/MARSEC
Command.
The highlight of the entire IGC is
arguably the final match between
Fleet and NDU. The match kept up
a high tempo and supporters were treated to an exciting The organising committee extends its heartfelt
match. Thanks to the exuberant supporters from the appreciation to all Unit Commanders for graciously
teams, an electrifying atmosphere built up within the allowing their players to participate in the tournament
sports complex that subsided only at the final whistle. and, more importantly, to the players and various team
NDU eventually emerged as the champions, beating managers for their excellent support and sportsmanship.
the Fleet Team by a score of 76 to 44. The Fleet Team
nonetheless demonstrated through their fighting spirit Article contributed by 2WO Hoo Hui Seng
that they were more than deserving runners-up.
NOD & WARCEN joint-champions
at HQ RSN Beach Volleyball
The HQ RSN Inter-department Beach Volleyball Indeed it was a match to remember for MSG Andy Goh
competition was held at Sentosa’s Siloso Beach on 5 from NOD. He said: “We were trailing behind and we
Aug where NOD, WARCEN, NLD and the combined were giving the match away. But we reminded each other
team of NPD/NID/NPLD battled it out for the title of not to give up. Point by point we fought back and we
champions. After a series of round-robin matches, NOD were the ones shouting for joy at the end. Never will we
and WARCEN engaged in a fierce title decider. However, forget this memorable moment!”
passing rain quickly cooled the heat of battle, following a
win by each team for the hardly-fought sets. Both teams CPT Poh Sin Ee from WARCEN commented: “We went
were declared joint-champions as the match had to be into the game with a mindset of wanting to enjoy the
called-off. game and have fun. At the end of the day, we walked
away feeling happy and satisfied with our performance.
Having narrowly lost the title to NPD last year, NOD Team Our strategy was simple – to maintain team cohesion
Manager MWO Lim Khoon Huat shared: “This year was and to play the game comfortably without thinking too
more challenging for us. With one player back from Gulf much about winning or losing. As it turned out we are all
of Aden Operations, and one that just finished overnight winners!” ~JW
duty, we re-looked our strategy and stuck to the game
plan. We managed to keep our cool and strived hard to
win every point.”
22You can also read
