NAVY HAS NEW FLEET COMMANDER

Colonel (COL) Lai Chung Han took over as Fleet Commander of the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) from Rear-Admiral (RADM) Joseph Leong, in a Change of Command ceremony held at Changi Naval Base on 7 Apr.

The ceremony was witnessed by Chief of Navy RADM Ng Chee Peng.

In his farewell speech, RADM Leong expressed his "fullest confidence" in COL Lai's leadership, and also paid tribute to the RSN sailors.

He said: "It never fails to amaze me how dedicated and committed all of you have been....I salute you. The Navy lives and breathes the commitment and professionalism you show every minute of every day."

RADM Leong has served the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) with distinction since his enlistment in December 1989. He was awarded the President's and SAF (Overseas) Scholarship in 1990.

His command appointments include Commander First Flotilla and Commanding Officer 188 Squadron. Staff appointments include Head Operations Planning Branch in the Naval Operations Department and Office Director in the Future Systems Directorate.

New Fleet Commander COL Lai spoke of his plan to create an environment for those under his command to continue to succeed. "Together, we will nurture the next generation of committed leaders who will build on the successes we inherit today," he said.

"It is a tremendous responsibility but an even greater privilege," said COL Lai of his new appointment. He pledged to uphold the readiness of the Fleet, and work towards sustaining its continued readiness for future generations.

COL Lai's previous appointments include Director (Policy) in the Ministry of Defence, Commanding Officer 188 SQN and Commanding Officer of the missile corvette RSS Valiant.

In their speeches, both men thanked their wives and families for the support they had given them throughout their careers.

Besides their families, guests at the ceremony included senior officers and personnel from the RSN as well as external guests.