SINGAPORE: No surgery is required for Red Lions team member Third Warrant Officer (3WO) Jeffrey Heng, who had a rough landing at the National Day Parade, but some rehabilitation will be needed, said Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen.
In a Facebook update on Wednesday (Aug 10), Dr Ng said 3WO Heng suffered some injuries.
“CDF and COA visited him, and we are glad to report that he is stable,” said Dr Ng, referring to the Chief of Defence Force and the Chief of Army.
“Suffered some injuries due to the hard landing, but no surgery required. He will need time and some rehab, but full recovery is expected.”
During the National Day Parade on Tuesday, 3WO Heng was the last of 10 parachutists to land at the Marina Bay floating platform. He skidded on the pavement and fell to the ground. Medics rushed to his side before he was stretchered off.
The incident, which happened at about 6.10pm, drew concern from both spectators and people watching the parade from home.
Dr Ng said about an hour after the incident that 3WO Heng’s condition is stable, adding that he is alert and conscious.
In a separate Facebook post, the Singapore Army said 3WO Heng is recovering well and thanked Singaporeans for their well wishes and support.
“Parachuting at The Float can sometimes be tricky, with strong crosswinds, gusty currents and disruptive airflow,” it added.
“Thankfully, 3WO Jeffrey applied his training and adopted the Parachute Landing Fall upon the hard landing, and thus avoided major injuries.”