A SENSE OF MISSION

These days, Major (MAJ) Edmund Twohill spends most of his time in the office writing papers that will help Army formations develop their capabilities for the future.

While acknowledging the strategic importance of his current role as a Staff Officer in G5 Army - "It's about helping the Army get to where it wants to be" - he admits to missing the action and camaraderie of unit life. He is particularly fond of his one-year stint as a company leader in 3rd Battalion, Singapore Guards.

"I enjoy interacting with people. The men in the unit were a fun bunch to be with. They never ceased to amaze me, as well as frustrate me!"

His other memorable posting was as a platoon commander in Officer Cadet School, where he enjoyed seeing his charges grow into leaders.

But whether it is formulating high-level strategy behind a desk or leading his men in the field, what MAJ Twohill enjoys most about the Army is working arm-in-arm with his fellow soldiers to reach a common goal. "The general staff is a brotherhood. There is a sense of mission to do whatever it takes to get the job done. What I have learnt as a leader is not to take any decision lightly."

As the father of two young children - three-year-old Nathaniel and nine-month-old Emily - the task of juggling work and family life has become tougher recently.

But, with the help of an understanding wife, he has managed to strike the right balance. "My wife Melissa and I are very deliberate when planning our time with our kids. We try to maximise the time we have together."