Person:Adnan Saidi (1)

the text in this section is copied from an article in Wikipedia

Adnan bin Saidi (Jawi: ; 1915 – 14 February 1942) was a Malayan military officer of the 1st Infantry Brigade who fought the Japanese at the Battle of Pasir Panjang in Singapore during World War II. He is lauded as a national hero in Singapore and Malaysia for his actions during the battle. His name is also the namesake for the Malaysian Infantry Fighting Vehicle (MIFV).

Personal history (cut-and-paste)The eldest of six children, Adnan Saidi was one of three male siblings to join the military service. He received his English education at Pekan Sungei Ramal School.After a short stint as a trainee teacher, he joined the Malay Regiment at the age of 18. He rapidly rose through the ranks to become 2nd Lieutenant and leader of the 7th Platoon, 'C' Coy in four short years.At 23, Adnan married Sophia Pakih Muda, a school teacher from his village. In late 1941, Adnan was posted to Singapore. He was entrusted with the defence of Pasir Panjang Ridge, the last British bastion before Alexandra, where their main ammunition and supplies, military hospital and other key installations were located. In an epic battle, the Battle for Pasir Panjang (13 to 14 February 1942) or the "Battle of Opium Hill" as it is better known, Adnan and his troops fought a fierce two-day struggle with the Japanese invasion. Heavy casualties were inflicted on both sides, despite a Japanese victory. Adnan himself met a grisly execution at the hands of the enemy, where they hung him by his legs to a tree and repeatedly bayoneted him. From survivor witness’ accounts, the repeated torture and mutilation of his body eventually ended with his body being burnt. A war hero, Adnan received medals posthumously for his courage while a memorial plaque was erected at Kent Ridge to commemorate the bravery of Adnan and his men. The memory of this brave soldier also lives on at Kranji War Memorial where his name is etched on the main memorial column wall of the Kranji War Cemetery.

1.   Adnan bin Saidi, in Wikipedia: The Free Encyclopedia.