GERMAN ARMY CHIEF OF STAFF GETS AWARD, SEES SAF CAPABILITIES

The Chief of Staff, German Army, Lieutenant-General (LTG) Hans-Otto Budde, was conferred Singapore's prestigious military award, the Meritorious Service Medal (Military) on 6 Mar.

He received the award from Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean at an investiture ceremony held at the Ministry of Defence.

LTG Budde, who is here for a visit from 5 to 8 Mar, has played a significant role in enhancing the excellent ties between the armies of Singapore and Germany. He also facilitated the Singapore Armed Forces' (SAF's) main battle tank training in Germany this month.

Under his command, there have been increased interactions, exchanges of visits and greater sharing of knowledge between the two armies. These have strengthened the mutual understanding, rapport and camaraderie among the personnel of both armies.

As part of his visit, LTG Budde also called on Mr Teo and Chief of Army, Major-General Neo Kian Hong.

He later visited Headquarters Armour and the Murai Urban Training Facility where he saw a demonstration of urban operations capabilities by SAF soldiers. At the end of the visits, he said: "Your army is a modern army. Not only in terms of equipment but also in terms of thinking."

"Your army is moving in the right direction. I am very impressed", he added.