RSAF 50th anniversary - Defending Singapore's skies and beyond

First humanitarian mission a big chapter in RSAF's history

LT Leo Tin Boon (third from right), then a 21-year-old helicopter pilot, back in Singapore with the rest of the Kuantan detachment in 1971. It was the RSAF's - then the Singapore Air Defence Command - first humanitarian assistance and disaster relief
LT Leo Tin Boon (third from right), then a 21-year-old helicopter pilot, back in Singapore with the rest of the Kuantan detachment in 1971. It was the RSAF's - then the Singapore Air Defence Command - first humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operation.PHOTO: MINDEF

As the Republic of Singapore Air Force celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, The Straits Times speaks to current and former airmen, who share their stories of how they responded to the call of duty, from protecting Singapore's airspace to rescue operations and multinational reconstruction efforts.