I am ME2 Ng Bee Ling, a senior medic from 1 Medical SQN under Participation Command. I signed on under the Joint Polytechnic-SAF Diploma Scheme, and graduated with a Diploma in Nursing from Nanyang Polytechnic in 2004.
 

When I decided to take up nursing, I also had to make a decision on the type of medical setting I wished to join. After some thinking, I chose to join the SAF because I wanted a different experience from working in a hospital, and being in the SAF could provide me with more unique challenges. I first joined as a Combat Medic, and later converted to a Military Medical Expert under the Military Domain Expert Scheme. When I was given the chance to be posted to the RSAF in 2006, I took it up without hesitation as I knew it would definitely be a totally different experience. Sure enough, being in the RSAF provided me with many memorable opportunities, especially being a medic under Participation Command, and being a part of the Search-and-Rescue crew. One of the most memorable aspects of my training would be going to Australia for my aeromedical evacuation course. The close interactions and shared learning with the Australians, coupled with the knowledge gained during the course were really  eye-opening for me.

After 14 years in the RSAF, my most memorable ops I participated in would definitely be when I volunteered to support the COVID-19 screening operations. I never expected myself to have a chance to take part in such an operation, but I was determined to do all I can to support my fellow medical personnel and my nation in this crisis. Due to the sensitivity of the ops and environment I was in, my personal challenge was to protect myself and my family members during my deployment. Though I was appropriately protected with Personal Protective Equipment, I still decided to minimise exposure to my two young daughters and the elderly members of my family. I was thankful to have the support of my family and loved ones while I was doing what I can to help, and they gave me the strength and motivation to do my best each day. I also attribute the mission success to the teamwork and dedication of my entire team. During the deployment, each of us focused on a common goal – to do our utmost best to overcome this situation, help out in whatever ways we can, and win this war against COVID-19 together as a nation. After all, no contribution is too small.
 

This also brings me to my favourite part of being in the RSAF – the family orientated culture. We believe in leaving no one behind, and that everyone plays a part toward mission success. I personally also believe in two key principles: leading by example, and safety.  An effective leader that commands loyalty and diligence should always lead by example and be a role model for his/her team. Each one of us in our line of work should also always uphold safety as our top priority – towards patients,  your colleagues, and also yourself. I am blessed to be surrounded by team members who share the same ethos and values as me, and these values will continue to spur me on in my Air Force Journey.