These notes were among many pinned on a small board outside the Changi Chapel.

Private Roberts Ronald Maurice
20.05.1929 – 11.08.2009

Affectionately known to family and friends as “Ron Mate”, tragically passed away on August 11 2009 after encountering a brief illness.

Ron served his country of origin Great Britain, with pride in World War II and was captured by the Japanese and served 3.5 years in Changi Prison.

Whilst in prison, he was subjected to unspeakable atrocities and was forced to work on the Burma Railway.

Following the Japanese surrender, and the end of WWII, he returned to England to his wife Millicent (Millie).

Ron and Miller are survived by their four children Linda, Sherron, Paul and Amanda. All of these children have offspring and I am proud to say I am one.

Your Loving Grandson Danno xxx

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Reading these notes on a recent visit to the Changi Chapel, it is hard to believe that war once gripped this peaceful country. Unspeakable atrocities happened all too often and for many it was Yet Another Day struggling to keep body and soul together.

You will not enjoy a visit to the Changi Museum. Walking thru’ the galleries, you will probably leave with emotions in turmoil briefly encountering man’s inhumanity to man.

But as you emerge from the darkened hall and leave the ghosts of the past behind, enjoy the sun and the freedom – for a high price had been paid in full by Ron Mate and countless others whose lives and stories behind those now demolished bars, remain shrouded in the shadows of this country we call home.

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Other writings in this series:

Fantasies of the Unconscious – Go forth and mend

Fantasies of the Unconscious – One giant leap for mankind … really?

Fantasies of the unconscious – If buildings could speak

Fantasies of the Unconscious – Creatures of the dappled light

Fantasies of the Unconscious – Rock of the Ages

Fantasies of the Unconscious – In Search of …

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EDITOR’S NOTE: The Changi Museum will be one of the stops for War on Wheels - an interactive tour to be organised in Nov/Dec as part of the annual campaign Explore Singapore! Do look out for details to be released soon.