Within just 5 decades, Singapore’s Defence Force has transformed from a basic one lacking in manpower and infrastructure, to the formidable legion it is today.
One of the key figures who made this possible was retired Lieutenant General (LG) Ng Jui Ping, who served as SAF’s 2nd Chief of Defence Force from 1992 to 1995.
Sadly, the 71-year-old retired general passed away on Wednesday (1 Jan) after reportedly battling pancreatic cancer, leaving behind his wife, 2 daughters, and 5 grandchildren.
Since then, countless Singapore leaders have penned poignant tributes on their social media pages, bidding farewell to the pioneer military leader.
Here are 6 things about LG (Ret) Ng, which explains why he was held in such high regard among his peers.
While enlistment may be compulsory for most healthy male Singaporeans now, LG (Ret) Ng joined the army on his own accord back in 1966.
According to The Straits Times, LG (Ret) Ng was just 17-years-old when he ‘signed on’ and was among the first batch of Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) commissioned officers.
While training was tough, LG (Ret) Ng looked back fondly on his time with the SAF, which forged an unbreakable bond between him and the other cadets.
LG (Ret) Ng went on to spending over 30 years in the SAF, rising through the ranks and being named as Chief of Defence Force from 1992-1995.
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Throughout his accomplished career, LG (Ret) Ng played a pivotal role in building a “strong and credible SAF” from scratch.
The retired general was also described by his peers as “mission focused” and competent leader who “always has an answer for whatever he is tasked to do“.
Coincidentally, LG (Ret) Ng was one of PM Lee Hsien Loong‘s Commanding Officers during his time in the artillery unit.
PM Lee would later work alongside him, where he learnt many invaluable lessons, both as a leader and as a colleague.
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LG (Ret) Ng’s greatest achievement during his military career came in 1991.
As Chief of the Singapore Army then, LG (Ret) Ng commanded a group of 20 elite special forces who stormed the hijacked flight and rescued all 125 passengers and crew members on board.
After leaving the SAF in 1995, the retired general went on to serve in both the public and the private sector which includes the CPF Board and Singapore Technologies.
A football fan, LG (Ret) Ng also served as vice president at the Football Association of Singapore from 2009 to 2011 where he helped develop the professional S League.
Despite being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer late last year, LG (Ret) Ng remained positive and composed.
Even as his health had weakened greatly a week before his eventual departure, LG (Ret) Ng continued to look on the bright side and praised the nurses and doctors who took care of him.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased, may he rest in peace.
Even though LG (Ret) Ng may no longer with us, we hope others will be inspired by his patriotic spirit and his never-say-die attitude.
Featured image adapted from Facebook and Facebook.
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