Block E6

Slipping through time, imagine Block E6 at Raffles College in the turbulent days of World War II. Block E6 wasn’t just a university building then. It was a haven, transformed into a makeshift hospital alongside St Andrew’s Cathedral, Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall, and St Joseph’s Institution. Block E6, part of Raffles College, played a vital role as war raged around Singapore. The college itself became a center of compassion and resilience. A student at the time, Maurice Baker, recalled the chilling moment war broke out. He was awakened by the jarring sounds of bomb explosions, anti-aircraft fire, and the piercing wail of air-raid sirens. Professor W.E. Dyer, his principal, confirmed the grim reality: war had arrived in the Pacific. Despite the looming danger, Professor Dyer inspired his students to act with compassion. They formed the Raffles College Medical Auxiliary Service, bringing much-needed medical aid to devastated areas. Block E6 at Raffles College became a symbol of hope amidst the chaos. Later, Raffles College would be taken over, becoming the headquarters of the Japanese military, a stark contrast to its earlier role as a sanctuary of healing. But during those dark days, Block E6 at Raffles College served as a beacon of resilience, a testament to the enduring spirit of those who sought to heal and protect amidst the ravages of war.