Australian Chief of Air Force Receives Prestigious Military Medal

08 May 2007

Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Shepherd and Mrs Shepherd stand for a photograph with Minister for Defence, Mr Teo and Mrs Teo.

Australia's Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Geoffrey David Shepherd, received the prestigious Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Tentera) Meritorious Service Medal (Military)] from Minister for Defence, Teo Chee Hean, at the Ministry of Defence this morning. Air Marshal Shepherd was awarded the medal in recognition of his significant contibutions to strengthening the excellent bilateral ties between the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and the Republic of Air Force (RSAF). Air Marshal Shepherd has been instrumental in promoting greater cooperation between the RAAF and RSAF.

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His strong personal support for the RSAF's training in Australia, including the RSAF's Flying Training School in RAAF Base Pearce and the RSAF's Air Grading Centre in Tamworth, has contributed significantly to enhancing the operational readiness of the RSAF. With Air Marshal Shepherd's commitment and guidance, professional interactions between the RAAF and RSAF have grown in scope and depth. Both air forces engage in a wide range of bilateral and multilateral activities, including Exercise Pitch Black, military exercises under the Five Power Defence Arrangements, and professional exchange programmes. These interactions have enhanced the professionalism of the two air forces and strengthened mutual understanding and camaraderie among their officers and men. Earlier today, Air Marshal Shepherd called on Minister for Defence, Chief of Defence Force Major-General Desmond Kuek, and Chief of Air Force Brigadier-General Ng Chee Khern. Air Marshal Shepherd also visited Tengah Air Base, the Flight Simulation Centre and 112 Squadron yesterday.

AM Shepherd presents a plaque to Chief of Air Force, BG Ng.

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