First Commissioner to Modernise the SCDF – James Tan

James Tan was a senior officer in the Singapore Armed Forces when he was tasked to lead the newly reorganised SCDF as its Commissioner in 1992. Although there were 12 fire stations at the time, SCDF neither had proper headquarters or training academy nor were the firefighters and civil defence divisions integrated. As such, James Tan had to first prioritise infrastructural development upon his take over.

Over the next 17 years, James Tan continued being a driving force in introducing a culture of innovation to SCDF. As a result, a constant stream of in-house innovations including the Red Rhino were rolled out to enhance SCDF operations. Another major achievement was the establishment of purpose-built buildings with state-of-the-art facilities for all seven main units of the SCDF.

Under James Tan’s leadership, SCDF also broadened its international exposure by assisting in overseas rescue missions under Operation Lionheart. In 2008, Operation Lionheart became the first team in Asia to be certified as a Heavy Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Team.

With James Tan at the helm, SCDF has become one of the world’s leading emergency response organisations. In 2009, he received the Meritorious Service Medal and retired from active service.