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| The clear blue sky and the Cenotaph |
Background Information
A cenotaph is an "empty tomb" or a monument erected in honour of a group of people whose remains are found elsewhere. The Cenotaph in Singapore is located at Esplanade along Connaught Drive. It is a war memorial that commemorates the men who died in World War I and World War II. In December 2010, it was declared a national monument together with two other structures in Esplanade Park: the Lim Bo Seng Memorial and the Tan Kim Seng Fountain.Purpose of Erecting this Memorial
The purpose of the memorial was first in honour of a total of 124 men based in Singapore who died in World War I, their names carved on the base of the cenotaph. After World War II, the reverse side of the base of the Cenotaph was used to commemorate those who died in World War II. The names of those who sacrificed in World War II were however not carved on the base of the memorial. Instead, the phrase "They died so we might live" was inscribed in 4 languages: English, Mandarin, Malay and Tamil.
Reflections
This was our group's second stop at the Esplanade Park after the INA Marker. When we arrived there, the sky was clear blue and the sun was shining on the Cenotaph. It was a beautiful sight. This must have been Heaven's blessing on the people who sacrificed themselves for the peace we have today. I personally feel thankful for those who sacrificed, so that we may live. At the same time, I hope that there will be no more war because behind these names are the sorrows of their family members as well. Hence, I think that the significance of this monument is also to remind us to protect our nation from war and to cherish the peace that we have now. In my opinion, the reason behind inscribing the phrase "They died so we might live" in the 4 languages is to acknowledge the contributions the 4 races have made during the wars and serve as a reminder that there will only be peace if racial harmony is maintained.
Trivia
This is one part of the course for the annual Army Half Marathon (AHM).Suggested Activity
Find out the number of times the Cenotaph was vandalised and the consequence for vandalising a national monument.
