Record number of military experts appointed

A total of 91 senior military experts were appointed at a ceremony yesterday - the highest number of servicemen to receive the rank since it was introduced in 2011.

The record number reflects a growing demand for experts in specialised fields such as engineering, logistics and intelligence in the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) as it becomes more technologically advanced.

Second Minister for Defence Chan Chun Sing, however, reminded the graduating servicemen that they are not just technical experts in the SAF.

"Today is a milestone where you will continue your journey as part of the leadership of the SAF," he said.

"The SAF has a strong and capable leadership corps... Each corps is important in your own ways to contribute to the overall capability of the SAF.

"You must never forget that you are part of this leadership corps."

The minister was speaking at the appointment ceremony at the Safti Military Institute in Jurong, where he also presented swords and certificates to outstanding performers in the Military Domain Experts Course.

One of them was ME4 Ng See Lye, 43, the deputy officer commanding of logistics flight at 149 Squadron.

"The skills I learnt at this course will help me better plan operational requirements, organise training for my men and maintain engineering standards back in the squadron," he said.

This article was first published on July 24, 2014.
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