Jakarta (ANTARA News) - President Joko Widodo presided over the memorial service ceremoney at the Kalibata Heroes Cemetery (TMP) in commemoration of the Republic of Indonesia`s 73rd anniversary on Friday at 00.00 WIB.

The solemnity of this ceremony was very much felt because when it started it was only lightened by torches, as all the lights were turned off.

Even, the electricity in the Kalibata City Apartment located next to the Heroes Cemetery was turned off and the Highway on TMP was also closed.

"We are present at this time on Friday August 17 2018 at 00.00 WIB (Western Indonesia Standard Time) at a ceremony commemorating the spirit and services of the nation`s heroes who have been buried in the TMP cemetery," said President Joko Widodo.

As a ceremony inspector, President Jokowi paid tribute to 9,951 known and unknown heroes who are burried in the Heroes Cemetery.

A total of 9,951 heroes consisted of 9,045 TNI / Polri (military and police officers) heroes, 21 heroes of National Council, 42 national figures heroes and 43 unknown heroes.

"Such a hero is not known by name and place, in cities, in hamlets, on mountain slopes, in canyon valleys, and in the ocean bases. We express our utmost respect for the sacrifices of the heroes in serving the nation for the sake of the happiness of the people, " said the Head of State while leading the ceremony attended by military and police officers.

The President also expressed his utmost respect for the willingness and sincerity of the fighters.

Reported by Joko Susilo
Edited by Eliswan

Reporter: antara
Editor: Heru Purwanto
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