Marching Orders

August 1966

Way before red and white became the dress code at National Day parades, it was come-as-you-are, wherever-you-are, as Singapore marked its first year of independence on Aug 9, 1966. Some 23,000 men, women and children took part in the parade which was kicked off with the arrival of the country's first president, Yusof bin Ishak. Some Cabinet ministers and members of parliament even donned their own military finest and joined the uniformed contingents marching through Chinatown.

A 90-minute display of fireworks brightened the sky at Fort Canning, and the nearby waterfront boasted a giant illuminated sea dragon as well. Along with the hordes of marchers, cultural performances, dinners, speeches and various other events were held throughout the weeklong celebration.