We re-visit old military camps and iconic buildings with a fascinating past, and discover stories and memories from our history
By Pamela Chow
Our country may be a relatively young nation, but it has numerous sites scattered around with hidden stories detailing our eventful history.
Set off on your own journey of rediscovery with Weekender’s short guide on some of the most intriguing World War II sites and secrets of our island, and find out why we were once feted as an “impregnable fortress”.
Alexandra Hospital was described as one of the largest military hospitals outside Great Britain during WWII. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)
Alexandria Hospital
In 1940, Alexandra Hospital was the main hospital for British military personnel in Singapore, and it was described as one of the largest outside of Great Britain.
After the Battle of Pasir Panjang in February 1942, the overcrowded hospital fell to Japanese troops, who tortured some 250 patients and staff. Few managed to escape to tell the tale. When news of the massacre reached the 18th Division’s Japanese commander, he reportedly ordered the involved soldiers to be executed as hospitals are usually seen as neutral zones.
Alexandra Military Hospital was handed over to the Singapore government in September 1971. Today, its architecture reflects its rich history and heritage.
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