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His community under attack, Sikh Temple of Wisconsin president Satwant Singh Kaleka fought back with all his strength and a simple butter knife, trying to stab a murderous gunman before taking two fatal gunshots.

Shot nine times and left for dead as he tended to a wounded victim outside, Police Lieutenant Brian Murphy tried to wave off his colleagues' aid, insisting worshippers indoors needed their help more.

In the temple carpark, 32-year veteran police officer Sam Lenda took aim and downed the gunman who refused to drop his weapon after killing six people as they gathered for Sunday services in the Milwaukee temple.

Singh, Lt Murphy and Officer Lenda are being hailed as heroes for saving lives.

Gunman Wade Michael Page, 40, was an army veteran and former leader of a white supremacist heavy metal band. Police have not determined a motive for his attack.

In Singapore, the Harmony Centre, Jamiyah Singapore, Singapore Buddhist Lodge and Hindu Endowments Board yesterday extended condolences to the bereaved families in the US.

The organisations condemned violence against any community and said they are committed to upholding racial harmony and religious tolerance in Singapore.