The Chief of the Defence Staff of the French Armed Forces (FAF), General (GEN) Jean-Louis Georgelin, was conferred Singapore's highest military award, the Darjah Utama Bakti Cemerlang (Tentera) [or Distinguished Service Order (Military)], by President S R Nathan at the Istana this afternoon.
The medal was awarded to GEN Georgelin for his significant contributions in strengthening the excellent defence ties between the FAF and the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). Under his leadership, professional military exchanges and defence collaborations between the two forces have grown in scope and depth. In particular, GEN Georgelin's support for the Republic of Singapore Air Force's Advanced Jet Training detachment in Cazaux has enabled RSAF pilots to hone their flying skills and benefit professionally from regular contact with their French counterparts. GEN Georgelin has also been instrumental in ensuring the smooth progress of the Republic of Singapore Navy's (RSN's) Frigate Programme, providing invaluable training opportunities for the RSN frigate crew. These professional and personal interactions have enhanced the mutual understanding and rapport between the officers and men of the two armed forces.
GEN Georgelin, who is in Singapore for a two-day visit from 25 to 26 November 2009, called on Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General (LG) Desmond Kuek and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean at the Istana before the investiture. Guests at the investiture included Mr Teo, Minister for Education and Second Minister for Defence Ng Eng Hen, LG Kuek, as well as other senior government officials and military officers from Singapore and France.
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