Reflections

So we've come to the end of our trip across Singapore's battlefields, but before we go, we'd like to share some of the things that we've learnt on this trip.

It really marvels me that Singapore has so many historical sites. Before this trip, I only really knew about Labrador Park and Fort Canning because those were the only sites that we used to visit during field trips in primary school. But now after visiting all the sites that we've visited, not only am I more enlightened about World War II, but also Singapore itself, which seems like a much bigger place now. It is also funny how tourists seem to make up a large portion of the crowd compared to local Singaporeans (with the exception of school children). What I feel that we should all just take some time to get to know about our country, the pitfalls of World War II and how they have shaped the way we currently live. Why travel to other countries when your own backyard is already full of so many amazing tales?
-Gerald

The biggest learning point for me was knowing that so many of the Japanese attacks could be avoided and easily won. The British made lots of miscalculations. Miscalculations that provide a vital lesson for all for us, to be independent, to be ever-prepared, and to be united as a country. The British mistakes might seem bad, but really, without them, we're worse off. It has come to greatly affect our society, whether we like it or not. Now I know the importance of Total Defence Day and never will I take it granted ever again...
-Benny

For me, the thing that affected me the most after venturing on this exciting journey was the heroes that fought for Singapore. Kranji War Memorial was certainly the area that struck us all the most. Seeing all those graves made me realise how many people were willing to fight for Singapore to the death just to protect it, something that we also learnt from Memories at Bukit Chandu, and which remained a recurring theme in our trip. We must appreciate these heroes, for they are the ones who made Singapore a much better place to live in than it was during World War II.
-Shan Wei

With that, we bid you a farewell and hope you enjoyed this trip.