PRESIDENT NATHAN CONFERS TOP MILITARY AWARD ON THE FORMER CHIEF OF THE NEW ZEALAND DEFENCE FORCE
The former Chief of Defence Force of the New Zealand Defence Force, Air Marshal (Retired) Bruce Reid Ferguson OBE, AFC, was conferred Singapore’s highest military award, the Darjah Utama Bakti Cemerlang (Tentera) [Distinguished Service Order (Military)], by President S. R. Nathan at the Istana this morning.
2. The Distinguished Service Order (Military) was awarded to Air Marshal (Retired) Ferguson in recognition of his significant contributions in forging excellent defence ties between the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) and the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). Under Air Marshal (Retired) Ferguson’s leadership, co-operation between the two armed forces have grown in complexity and scope. There has also been deeper collaboration between the two armed forces in a broad spectrum of bilateral and multilateral activities, including military exercises under the Five Power Defence Arrangements, and professional exchange programmes. Such interactions have enhanced the professionalism of the two armed forces, and have strengthened the mutual understanding and camaraderie among their officers and men.
3. Air Marshal (Retired) Ferguson’s strong support for the SAF training in New Zealand has contributed significantly to enhancing the operational readiness of the SAF. The NZDF has also provided valuable assistance to the SAF during its mission in the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor.
4. Guests present at the investiture included the Minister for Defence, Mr Teo Chee Hean; Chief of Defence Force, Lieutenant-General (LG) Ng Yat Chung, as well as senior officials from both countries.
5. Air Marshal (Retired) Ferguson made a courtesy call on Minister Teo this morning prior to the investiture. He also called on Chief of Defence Force, LG Ng Yat Chung.
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