leekuanyew

Lee Kuan Yew: Stormy grey skies echo a nation's grief

The heavens opened on the day of Mr Lee Kuan Yew's funeral, almost as if in response to the outpouring of emotions since his death on March 23.

In torrential rain - the complete opposite of the hot, humid week - Mr Lee's cortege travelled 15.4km from Parliament House to the University Cultural Centre, where his state funeral was held.

As the cortege made its final journey, cannon on the Padang fired a 21-gun salute in honour of Mr Lee. It took a winding route, passing by milestones of Singapore's history that spoke of Mr Lee's enormous contribution to the nation.

They included the Trade Union House, Mr Lee's life-long ward of Tanjong Pagar and Marina Bay - home to the iconic Marina Barrage and Gardens by the Bay, embodiments of Mr Lee's vision for Singapore to be green and water-sufficient.

Some 100,000 Singaporeans lined the streets in the pouring rain. As the cortege passed them, their gratitude and emotions could hardly be contained, with many shouting, "Lee Kuan Yew, thank you!"

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