Chief of Army MG David Neo to leave position, served in the army for 29 years
Earlier today (25 Feb), the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) announced that Chief of Army Major-General (MG) David Neo would be stepping down from his position after nearly three decades of service.
He will be succeeded by Brigadier-General (BG) Cai Dexian on 21 March.
“This change is part of the continuing process of leadership renewal in the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF),” stated MINDEF.
MG Neo’s distinguished military career
The 47-year-old MG Neo joined the army 29 years ago in 1996.
Image courtesy of MINDEF
During his time in the SAF, he commanded key units such as the First Battalion Singapore Guards, 2nd Singapore Infantry Brigade and 3rd Singapore Division.
He also made history in March 2022 when he became the first Commando officer to be appointed as Chief of Army (COA).
According to MINDEF, he led the Army 2040 transformation plan, which focused on operationalising and acquiring new warfighting concepts and systems, enhancing inter-service integration, and developing workforce and digitalisation initiatives.
His leadership saw the Army resume and expand large-scale training and live-firing exercises locally and overseas after the Covid-19 pandemic.
MG Neo also worked on strengthening collaborations with foreign militaries.
Under his stewardship, the Singapore Army delivered humanitarian aid to Gaza and disposed of a large WWII bomb found in Bukit Timah.
Source: Singapore Police Force
As such, MINDEF stated that he served the SAF with distinction, maintaining a high level of operational readiness.
MINDEF expresses its deep appreciation to MG Neo for his sterling leadership and distinguished service to MINDEF and the SAF.
MG Neo praises his replacement
His successor, BG Cai, joined the military in 2003 and was awarded the SAF Overseas Scholarship.
Image courtesy of MINDEF
The 40-year-old has held several senior command positions and established the SAF’s Digital and Intelligence Service.
In 2012, BG Cai was deployed to Afghanistan as part of the SAF’s contribution to international reconstruction efforts.
On Instagram, MG Neo praised BG Cai, sharing that he had worked with him on numerous occasions in the past.
He expressed confidence in BG Cai, saying he could not think of a better person to handover to.
Source: davidneo on Instagram
“Congratulations Dexian, and continue to take the Army Forward Stronger, as our new Chief of Army,” said MG Neo.
Also read: Army Chief makes surprise appearance in recruitment video, cabbie asks if he’s schooling
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Featured image courtesy of MINDEF and adapted from davidneo on Instagram.
