Our NSman from 815 SQN, ME2 (NS) Aaron Teo, has recently been awarded the NSman of the Year (NOY) award! ME2 (NS) Aaron Teo was deployed to support the rectification of defects on the F-16C/D aircraft during his In-Camp Trainings (ICT), and worked closely with his shift In-Charge (IC) to lead their team to carry out every duty successfully. He always strives to boost the morale of the flight personnel through his positivity, and continually seeks improvement to the current work practices and environment. Let’s hear from him!

What is your role in 815 SQN? 
I am an Air Force Engineer, and I work with a team of F-16 airframe maintenance specialists in Tengah Air Base. Our job is to ensure that the aircraft are always air-worthy and ready to take flight to defend our skies! 

How would you describe the spirit in 815 SQN? 
If I could use one word to best describe 815 SQN, it would be “focused”. We are all trained to be focused, and we do not stray from that, because there is no room for error when it comes to flight safety.

What is your most memorable experience you had in your NS journey thus far?
I had a chance to be posted to Peace Carvin II detachment in Arizona, and the time I served there with my fellow RSAF airmen in 425th Fighter Squadron of the United States Air Force (USAF), was very memorable! As part of the aircraft maintenance crew, we ensure that the fighter jets were ready at all times, and got to frequently pit against other USAF squadrons in friendly competitions as well. This allows us to benchmark against other Air Forces and learn from each other’s best practices to elevate our standards. 
Great camaraderie were forged out of my two and a half years stint there, and a decade later, I am still very much in touched with some of my fellow airmen.

What were some of the challenges you faced and how did you overcome them?
Looking back, there were countless of challenges I faced throughout my time in the RSAF. Some of the more memorable ones would be those when we were working on tight deadlines to recover the aircraft to ensure that it can fly for the sortie planned on the same day. Focus and perseverance is key to making that happen.
 

What keeps you going to excel in whatever you do?
When I joined the SAF in 2005, I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet and train under leaders of exceptional qualities, which left a positive impact in my life. I would like to take this opportunity to mention one of my former mentors, ME5 Pang Kee Hwee. Under his guidance and leadership, he inspired me to put in my best in everything I do. 

How do you feel about winning this NOY award?
We enjoy the peace and stability today because National Service is the cornerstone of military defence, where we protect Singapore from any external armed threats. It is also one of the main reasons why our families can sleep peacefully at night. 
It is an honour to receive this award, and it would not be possible without the support of my family and employer for allowing me to take time to serve the Nation.

Thank you for your service, and congratulations for winning the award!