America's top military officer received the highest Singaporean award given to foreigners at a ceremony here today.
Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers received the Distinguished Service Order (Military) from acting President Sim Kee Boon at the Istana - Singapore's executive mansion.
The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is visiting the region to attend the Shangri La Security Conference and to hold talks with regional leaders.
Singapore recognized Myers for his efforts to increase cooperation between the two nations. "The two armed forces have embarked on new areas of cooperation while expanding the scopes of existing interactions," Singaporean officials said at the ceremony.
Singapore and the United States have a close military-to-military relationship. Singapore hosts ship visits and serves as a resupply point for U.S. Navy vessels. The Singaporean military exercises with U.S. forces in large exercises - such as Cobra Gold - and numerous smaller bilateral exercises.
The United States works with Singapore in ways that enhance the professionalism and operational capabilities of both militaries, Singaporean officials said. The militaries hold regular staff talks and service-to-service conferences.
In addition, the two countries have worked together to build new capabilities. There have been many constructive conversations between the U.S. and Singapore's military on the subjects of force transformation, maritime security and counterterrorism.
The award acknowledged Myers' efforts to increase Singapore's training opportunities in the United States. Singapore's military trains on the AH-64 attack helicopter, F-16 fighter jet and CH-47 transport helicopter in the United States.
Following the award ceremony, Myers met with his counterpart, Lt. Gen. Ng Yat Chung, and Singapore Defense Minister Teo Chee Hean.
Story by Jim Garamone, American Forces Press Service