WAIMANALO, Hawaii, - In this fast paced world where technology and social networking bring people from around the world together, the U.S. Military is tapping in to the same concept to drive modern warfare training.
Facebook and Twitter may be household expressions, but these same social media concepts are helping the U.S. and Singapore train together in a simulated exercise titled Tiger Balm.
“The knowledge here is really fresh and practical, very on time and updated, so there is always wonderful interacting and learning,” said Col. Ang Yau Choon, Commander, 10th Singapore Infantry Brigade.
Tiger Balm is a joint training exercise between the Singapore Army and U.S. National Guard and Reserve, which has been going on for nearly 30 years. Through that time, the technology has advanced as well as the relationship between the two countries.
“Singapore is a strategic partner of the U.S. and the more we work with them, the better operating we can do in terms of a situation that may arise,” said Col Brad Kohn, commander of the 82nd Support Detachment of the Oregon Army National Guard. “Working with the Singapore Armed Forces has been probably one of my very favorite exercises that I have ever done.”
The training runs on a two-year cycle alternating between Hawaii and Singapore as well as changing themes from combat operations to stability operation.
This year’s exercise, set at the Regional Training Institute near Waimanalo, Hawaii, focuses on stability and the steps it would take to help a war-torn country rebuild.
"This is going to give our leaders a chance to use their wits and just to experience how difficult peacekeeping operations can be," said Army Maj. Gen. Robert Lee, the adjutant general of the Hawaii National Guard.
To help the training come to life, organizers tap into the experience and knowledge of more than 260 soldiers and airmen from Hawaii, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, California, Guam, and Singapore all while utilizing computer simulation programs and role players. Nearly all positions are shared between a U.S. military and Singapore counterpart.
“When the soldiers are done with this exercise, they will be able to leave here and apply the most current tactics, techniques, and procedures on how to do stability operations,” said Lt. Col. Mark Shull, the 82nd operations officer.
While the main emphasis was on stability operations, cultural exchange was another major benefit to U.S. and Singapore Forces being able to work so closely together.
“Being culturally adept is absolutely important because it shows that we are not just one army anymore,” said Maj. Joe Lontai, the 82nd plans officer. “So I think this exercise just really brings that home and it shows that we have a lot more in common than we do apart.”
Although Tiger Balm only lasts five days, the first full week is dedicated to briefings and preparation for the fast-paced exercise. It also gives both sides a chance to get to know each other.
"The Hawaii National Guard is proud to host Singapore armed forces," Lee said. "They have been great allies in many of our endeavors -- both humanitarian and military operations throughout the Pacific theatre. And it is always great to have a chance to reciprocate with our great hosts from Singapore, because they always take care of the American troops when we go over there."
As well as on a professional level, both Singaporeans and Americans are encouraged to interact with each other socially to foster lasting friendships.
“I am sensing a lot of positive energy and I am looking forward to the synergy building up and culminating on a high point at the end of the exercise,” said Lt. Col. Johnny Lee, deputy operations officer, Headquarters 9th Singapore Division/ Infantry.
The exercise concludes with a luau and a gift exchange between U.S. and Singapore counterparts. Participants like Ang said the experience allows everyone involved to take away more than just knowledge. They gain lasting friendships as well.
“It’s always been wonderful working with friends and Americans are special because the friendship goes beyond social interaction,” said Ang.