As students, we often read about heroes that fought against the Japanese in World War II in our school textbooks. However, I often do not realize the importance of honoring such people for their admirable acts. They should be truly respected and remembered by all fellow Singaporeans.
Recently, I come across a chapter about a brave hero in my Mandarin textbook. He is Lieutenant Adnan Saidi. He was the lieutenant of the Malay Regiment's 1st Battalion and led his men to fight against the Japanese in the Battle at Opium Hill or also known as Bukit Chandu. He and his men fought in one of the fiercest battle against the Japanese troops. Eventually, they finished their ammonium after a prolonged fight. Nevertheless, he was determined to fight on and persevere. They had no choice but to perform hand-to-hand combat against the armed Japanese. When I learnt of this, I could feel their drive and persistence, and was immensely touched by their patriotic spirit to defend the country.
However, their deaths were then asserted under the inhuman methods of the Japanese. Adnan and his men were dreadfully outnumbered by their opponents. Adnan unwillingness to surrender provoked the Japanese. The Japanese gain revenge by hanging their enemies by their legs on the tree and repeated slitting of their throats. The way they were tortured and died was most brutal. When I heard this, my heart really poured out for them as I was shocked at the way they died despite their bravery. It hurts my heart to know that they were tortured unmercifully under the Japanese. Understanding the history where people die protecting their homeland is a great piece of knowledge not to be forsaken.
Adnan lived up to his motto "Biar putih tulang, jangan putih mata" in Malay which means death before dishonor. His life motto really inspires me, as his leadership and decisiveness was most commendable.
Presently, there is a memorial wall built in honor of the battle that Adnan and his men fought against the Japanese. His body was never found. Adnan was a respectable soldier and I have learned much from his eagerness and fighting spirit. I felt that he truly deserved the credit for all the good qualities that he had hold on to, even if it means risking his life.
Lieutenant Adnan possessed many great qualities that are examples to everyone. He had great leadership, perseverance, determination, sacrificial, selfless spirit, bravery and decisiveness. He was a great leader to his troop and to me too. He had all the qualities of a great leader; however he died brutally under the opponents’ hand. His death was an unexpected and mistaken one. He died as a leader, and forever is a leader.
Nonetheless, I would always remember his leadership qualities and honor him for his selfless spirit. Lieutenant Adnan Saidi is a true war hero in my heart. I earnestly hope all Singaporeans would not forgo this wonderful history that helped build this country up. May the Singapore fighting spirit go on forever…