The accolade was presented during a meeting between President Prabowo and SOCOM Commander General Bryan Patrick Fenton at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Monday (August 4).
According to an official statement released Tuesday, the president personally welcomed the U.S. commander and exchanged warm greetings.
"Hi, General, how are you?" Prabowo asked as he began the conversation.
Fenton responded affirmatively and returned the courtesy.
"You still look fit, don't you?" Prabowo added, placing his hand on the commander's shoulder in a friendly gesture.
Related news: Indonesia steps up defense diplomacy amid rising global tensions
General Fenton expressed his honor in representing 70 thousand SOCOM servicemen and servicewomen during his visit to Indonesia and meeting with President Prabowo.
In a cordial atmosphere inside the president's office, Fenton personally conferred the medal of honor on the Indonesian head of state.
He praised President Prabowo’s visionary leadership, particularly in strengthening defense cooperation between Indonesia and the United States.
Fenton highlighted the president’s steadfast dedication and commitment to enhancing bilateral ties, supporting the global fight against threats, and promoting regional stability and peace.
In addition to the medal, the SOCOM commander also presented a souvenir to President Prabowo, suggesting it might make a fine addition to the president's office.
Also in attendance at the meeting were Minister of Foreign Affairs Sugiono, Minister of Defense Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, and Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya.
Related news: Indonesia prioritizes enhancing main defense systems
Related news: Indonesia plans defense budget hike to 1.5 percent of GDP
Translator: Mentari D, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: M Razi Rahman
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
