Vice Admiral Mark Hammond was honoured with the prestigious Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Tentera) by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam for strengthening ties between the Australian and Singaporean navies.
SINGAPORE, 16 October 2024 – The Australian Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral (VADM) Mark Hammond, was conferred Singapore’s prestigious Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Tentera) or Meritorious Service Medal (Military) [MSM(M)] by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam. The investiture ceremony took place at the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF), where Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen presented the award to VADM Hammond.
VADM Hammond was recognised for his substantial contributions to enhancing the relationship between the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN). Under his leadership, the two navies engaged in regular high-level exchanges, professional development courses, and various bilateral and multilateral exercises, such as Exercise Singaroo, Exercise Trident, and Exercise Kakadu. These collaborations have deepened mutual understanding, improved interoperability, and strengthened the operational readiness of both forces.
Additionally, VADM Hammond has been instrumental in supporting Singapore’s regional maritime security initiatives, particularly through the deployment of an Australian International Liaison Officer to the RSN’s Information Fusion Centre. This cooperation has bolstered regional security efforts and information-sharing capabilities.
During his visit to Singapore from 13 to 16 October 2024, VADM Hammond inspected a Guard of Honour, met with Chief of Navy Rear Admiral Sean Wat, and held discussions with Dr Ng Eng Hen. He was also hosted to breakfast by Chief of Defence Force VADM Aaron Beng. As part of his programme, VADM Hammond visited Tuas Naval Base and Changi Naval Base and addressed students at the Goh Keng Swee Command and Staff College at the SAFTI Military Institute.
The award highlights the enduring and growing defence ties between Australia and Singapore, with both navies playing critical roles in regional stability and security.
Source: MINDEF
