NSF dies during training at Lim Chu Kang

A 21-year-old full-time National Serviceman died on Tuesday afternoon after suffering breathing difficulties while taking part in a platoon exercise.

Private Lee Rui Feng Dominique Sarron was undergoing training at Murai Urban Training Facility at Lim Chu Kang when he lost consciousness shortly after noon, according to a Mindef statement.

An SAF medic attended to Lee immediately and sent him to Sungei Gedong Medical Centre. He was then transferred to National University Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Private Lee was serving his national service with the 3rd Battalion Singapore Infantry Regiment.

According to Lee’s Facebook page, he had just celebrated his 21st birthday last week. Condolences have been pouring in, with friends expressing their sadness and sympathies for the former Temasek Polytechnic student.

Said Christabel Chua: “Though I know you wouldn’t be able to see these posts here on Facebook, you’ll somehow feel the love everyone has for you. Thanks for being this bundle of cheerfulness and joy…Thanks for being so genuine. Thanks for being you. We’re all missing you but you’re in a better place now.”

Lee was known to be fit and active -- he was formerly a promising track and field sprinter who had enrolled in the Singapore Sports School. According to some childhood friends who left messages on his Facebook page, he also used to rollerblade and play badminton.

Lee’s death comes at the back of another young NSF man’s passing at Bedok camp last month.