Song Kok Hoo facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Song Kok Hoo
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Song Kok Hoo, c. 1950
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| Deputy Commissioner of Police | |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 1906 Singapore Straits Settlements |
| Died | 12 May 1985 (aged 79) Australia |
| Spouse |
Rosaline Lee
(m. 1932; died 1968) |
| Children | 4 |
Song Kok Hoo (born 1906, died 12 May 1985) was an important police officer in Singapore. He made history by becoming the first Asian Deputy Commissioner of Police in the country. He worked in the police force for a long time, serving for 35 years.
Contents
Song Kok Hoo's Police Career
Before joining the Singapore Police Force, Song Kok Hoo worked as a government clerk. He didn't enjoy sitting at a desk all day. So, in July 1926, he decided to become a police inspector.
Rising Through the Ranks
Song Kok Hoo was a dedicated officer. In 1950, he received the Colonial Police Medal for his excellent service. This award recognized his hard work and achievements.
In October 1953, he was promoted to Deputy Superintendent. This was a big deal because he was the first Asian officer to hold this position in the police force's history. He continued to break barriers. In December 1959, he became Singapore's first Asian Deputy Commissioner of Police. He took over from A. R. Anderson.
Retirement and Later Work
Song Kok Hoo retired from the police force in December 1961. He had served his country for 35 years. After retiring from the police, he didn't stop working. In January 1962, he became the Chief Security Officer for the Maruzen Toyo Oil Company. This company had an oil refinery at Tanjong Belayar.
About Song Kok Hoo's Life
Song Kok Hoo was the youngest son of writer Song Ong Liew and his wife Gek Cham. He finished his studies at Raffles Institution in 1925.
Family Life
On June 18, 1932, Song Kok Hoo married Rosaline Lee. Their wedding took place at the Singapore Presbyterian Church. They had a reception for 250 guests at the Adelphi Hotel. Song and Rosaline had four children: one son and three daughters. Sadly, Rosaline Lee passed away on November 20, 1968.
Later Years
Song Kok Hoo was also a member of the Chinese Christian Association. After fully retiring in 1965, he spent his time between Singapore and Australia. He divided his time equally between both countries. He passed away on May 12, 1985, at 79 years old. His funeral was held in Melbourne, Australia, three days later.
