General Stéphane Mille was honored with the Meritorious Service Medal (Military) for his contributions to France-Singapore defence ties.
General (GEN) Stéphane Mille, Chief of Staff of the French Air and Space Force (FASF), received Singapore’s prestigious Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Tentera) or Meritorious Service Medal (Military) [MSM(M)]. The award was presented by Minister for Defence Dr. Ng Eng Hen at an investiture held at the Ministry of Defence this afternoon, with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam conferring the award.
GEN Mille was recognized for his significant contributions to strengthening the bilateral defence ties between the FASF and the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF). Under his leadership, the two air forces enhanced cooperation on common platforms like the H225M medium lift helicopters and Aster 30 Ground Based Air Defence systems. They also engaged in interactions during the PEGASE deployments to the region in 2023 and conducted professional exchanges and cross-attendance of courses.
Additionally, GEN Mille’s support for the Advanced Jet Training detachment at Cazaux Air Base has been crucial for the RSAF’s fighter aircrew generation, reinforcing the bilateral defence relationship.
Upon receiving the award, GEN Mille expressed his gratitude, stating, “I am deeply honored to receive this prestigious award from a valued and strategic partner with whom France shares common values and a balanced global vision. I accept this award on behalf of all members of the French Air and Space Force, who have tirelessly worked to strengthen the relationship between our Air Forces.”
GEN Mille is in Singapore for his MSM(M) investiture and introductory visit from July 7 to 9, 2024. During his visit, he called on Dr. Ng, Chief of Defence Force Vice Admiral Aaron Beng, and Chief of Air Force Major-General Kelvin Fan. He also inspected a Guard of Honour prior to the meetings.
Source – MINDEF
