War Memorial Park, Singapore

[National Parks Board, Singapore] The civilian War Memorial fondly referred to as "The Chopsticks" makes this park a prominent and famous feature of the Civic District. Four columns representing the four races, joined at the base denoting the unity of all races and dedicated to the civilians of all races who were victims of World War ll, is the 61 metres tall memorial.

History

In 1962, a large number of remains belonging to civilian victims were dug out in areas like Siglap, Changi and Bukit Timah. An act of remembrance increases the need to gather these remains from all over the island and finding a place to bury them. The Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce is responsible for this.

In 1963, the present piece of land is set aside by Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew for building a memorial. The memorial is completed in 1967 and revealed by Prime Minister Lee. Memorial services opened to the public are held on 15th February every year at this park.

Today

The 1.4-hectare park can be seen having open lawns with Gnetum gnemon (Melinjau) trees covering the walkway leading up to the memorial from four corners of the park. A pond is located around the memorial. This park is popular with sightseeing.

Getting there

Take a 5-minute walk from City Hall MRT Station or bus Services 7, 10, 14, 16, 32, 51, 56, 61, 63, 70, 77, 80, 82, 100, 103, 107, 124, 145, 166, 174, 181, 195, 196, 197, 851, 961, 980, 89M, 162M, 174M, 181M, NR1, NR2, NR6 and NR7.

Notes

References

* [http://www.nparks.gov.sg National Parks Board, Singapore]

External links

* [http://www.nparks.gov.sg/cms/index.php?option=com_visitorsguide&task=parks&id=40&Itemid=73 National Parks Board - War Memorial Park]