Chief of Staff of the French Air Force Receives Prestigious Military Award 13 Mar 2014 Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen congratulating General Denis Mercier after presenting the Meritorious Service Medal (Military) to him this morning. The Chief of Staff of the French Air Force (FAF) General (GEN) Denis Mercier was conferred Singapore's prestigious military award, the Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Tentera) or the Meritorious Service Medal (Military)], by President Tony Tan Keng Yam. Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen presented the award to GEN Mercier at the Ministry of Defence this morning. GEN Mercier was conferred the award in recognition of his outstanding contributions and efforts in forging excellent defence ties between the FAF and the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF). The relationship between the two air forces has deepened under GEN Mercier's leadership. GEN Mercier has provided strong support for the RSAF's training in Cazaux Air Base which enabled the RSAF to strengthen its training efforts, produce more capable fighter pilots and meet its training needs. GEN Mercier has also lent invaluable support to greater military-to-military interactions, such as through the attachment of an FAF Qualified Flying Instructor to the RSAF Fighter Wings Course Programme. These interactions have strengthened the professionalism and mutual friendship between the personnel of both air forces. Speaking after the investiture, GEN Mercier said, "I feel sincerely honoured to be conferred the award by the President of the Republic of Singapore. It is also a great privilege for me to receive the medal from the Minister for Defence, Dr Ng Eng Hen. I consider it a testimony of the quality of the relationship that exists between the FAF and the RSAF, which is one of the most modern and capable air forces in the world. I am looking forward to broaden and develop our already vast and long-lasting cooperation." GEN Mercier, who is in Singapore for an introductory visit from 12 to 14 March 2014, had earlier called on Dr Ng, Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Ng Chee Meng and Chief of Air Force Major-General Hoo Cher Mou before the investiture. GEN Mercier also inspected a Guard-of-Honour contingent at the Ministry of Defence this morning. GEN Mercier will visit Sembawang Air Base and 163 Squadron in the afternoon; and 119 Squadron tomorrow. .